Category: Degree360

What Can You Do With A Degree In Computer Science?

With our increasing use of and dependence on the internet, social media, smart phones and other smart devices, it should come as no surprise that there is an increasing emphasis on computer science literacy. A report titled ‘2019 State of Computer Science Education’ that was released by Code.org and the Computer Science Teachers Association describes how states have allocated more than $123 million for professional development in computer science from 2016 to 2021.

An online degree in computer science can ensure you are equipped with the knowledge and skills relevant in current computer science and information technology occupations. Students with good mathematical abilities, ingenuity and who can think analytically may be well-suited to such occupations.

What are the jobs in computer science by degree level?

To pursue a career in computer science and information technology, you may first complete a computer science degree program chosen based on your career goals, timeline and financial commitment possible.

  • Certificate Programs in Computer Science: Technical certification that may be provided by software vendors and vendor-neutral certification providers may take up to six months to complete. Students may learn about specific tools or products or gain an overview of computer science principles.

Jobs: Certification usually allows students to secure entry-level employment as computer support specialists, helpdesk technical support, visual basic developers and multimedia developers. With experience, they can secure roles as network and computer systems administrators and software developers.

  • Associate Degree in Computer Science: This qualification may generally equip students with a broad skill set suited to a variety of professions.

Jobs: Graduates may be eligible for roles as computer network support specialists, web developers, computer programmers, network and computer systems administrators, and computer systems analysts.

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science: You can build a strong theoretical foundation and gain a variety of practical skills through this four-year degree program.

Jobs: Graduates may apply for positions as back-end web developers, software developers, computer network architects, computer programmers, computer systems analysts, information security analysts, database administrators and so on.

  • Master’s Degree in Computer Science: If you are interested in learning about advanced computer science topics, this two-year degree program can be the right choice for you! This may give you an option of choosing an area of concentration as well.

Jobs: Graduates can gain employment as database administrators, software development engineers, and computer and information research scientists. They are also usually eligible for leadership roles in other related professions.

  • Doctoral Degree in Computer Science: Doctoral degrees in computer science such as a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree can qualify you for scientific research in the field as well as for a professional management role.

Jobs: Doctoral degree graduates may pursue careers as university professors and research and development scientists.

To become a computer scientist, you may first need to complete a suitable degree program in computer science from an accredited institution. Generally, a master’s degree is the minimum qualification needed. Some employers typically require you to complete certification in a particular product or tool. Once employed, you can rise in your role as you gain work experience. You can take specific courses depending on the field you work in. In some professional roles, an additional Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree may help you rise to senior positions. It is also important to stay up to date with the latest developments as the field of computer science is rapidly changing. Periodically taking courses and attending IT conferences can also be beneficial.

How can you earn a computer science degree online?

An online degree program in computer science may enable students to set their own pace, thus giving them the flexibility needed to attend to their personal life, professional responsibilities and education. Some programs can be available in a hybrid format and may require some classes to be attended in person. Classes are typically conducted online asynchronously through online learning platforms. Students may be required to meet deadlines for assignment or meet the instructor online from time to time. Many colleges and universities usually allow online students access to digital library resources and other student support services such as counseling, tutoring and career guidance.

Learn more about careers in nursing through the infographic below.

Sources

  • Code.org, ‘Computing occupations are now the #1 source of new wages in America’, https://blog.code.org/post/144206906013/computing-occupations-are-now-the-1-source-of-new, May 22, 2016, accessed September 2019
  • 2019 State of Computer Science Education, Equity and Diversity, Code.org, https://advocacy.code.org/2019_state_of_cs.pdf, accessed September 2019
  • EducationDive, ’33 states adopted 57 computer science ed policies since 2018′, https://www.educationdive.com/news/33-states-adopted-57-computer-science-ed-policies-since-2018/562530/ , September 11, 2019, accessed September 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Computer and Information Technology Occupations, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm , accessed September 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Computer Support Specialists, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-support-specialists.htm#tab-1 , accessed September 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Web Developers, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/web-developers.htm#tab-1 , accessed September 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Information Security Analysts, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm#tab-1 , accessed September 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Software developers, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm#tab-1 , accessed September 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Computer and Information Research Scientists, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm#tab-1 , accessed September 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Computer Network Architects, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-network-architects.htm#tab-1 , accessed September 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Computer Programmers, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-programmers.htm#tab-1 , accessed September 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Computer Systems Analysts, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-systems-analysts.htm#tab-1 , accessed September 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Database Administrators, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/database-administrators.htm#tab-1 , accessed September 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Network and Computer Systems Administrators, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm#tab-1 , accessed September 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2018, Computer User Support Specialists, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes151151.htm#st , accessed September 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2018, Web Developers, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes151134.htm#st , accessed September 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2018, Information Security Analysts, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes151122.htm#st , accessed September 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2018, Software Developers, Applications, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes151132.htm#st , accessed September 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2018, Computer and Information Research Scientists, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes151111.htm#st , accessed September 2019

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What Can You Do With A Degree In Accounting?

The health of any organization is determined by the health of its finances. This is why qualified and competent accountants and other finance professionals are indispensable to any organization. Accountants may be required to analyze financial records, prepare and audit financial statements, and to give advice related to accounting systems and operations and other financial matters.

The demand for accountants, auditors and other accounting professionals is rising, possibly fueled by globalization, a growing economy, and tax and regulatory complexities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of accountants and auditors is predicted to grow 10 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations.

An online degree in accounting may help students develop the financial acumen they need to succeed in accounting professions. Students may develop essential skills in math, analysis, organization and communication. Individuals who like to work with data, solve problems, lead projects and have the ability to make decisions may find a career in accounting fulfilling.

Career paths in accounting by degree level

With the right qualifications, graduates with online degrees in accounting may secure positions as accountants, auditors, financial analysts, financial managers and so on. Individuals interested in careers in accounting may choose degree programs based on their career aspirations as well as the time and money they are able to commit to investing.

Accountants and Auditors

Accountants and auditors primarily handle financial records and taxes. Their employment is expected to grow 10 percent from 2016 to 2026, adding about 139,900 jobs.

Degree level required: These occupations typically require at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field. Some employers may prefer master’s degree graduates. Certifications such as certified public accountant (CPA) and certified information systems auditor (CISA) may help to enhance career prospects.

Financial Analysts

Financial analysts examine the performance of various investments and provide guidance in making investment decisions. An 11 percent rise in the employment of financial analysts from 2016 to 2026, adding about 32,000 jobs, is predicted by the BLS.

Degree level required: A bachelor’s degree in accounting or in a similar field is usually required. A license is generally required to sell financial products. An additional certification as a chartered financial analyst (CFA) may help advance one’s career.

Financial managers

Financial managers generally develop strategies and plans for the long-term financial goals of their organization. Their employment is expected to grow 19 percent from 2016 to 2026, adding about 108,600 jobs.

Degree level required: A bachelor’s or master’s degree in accounting, finance, economics, or business administration is typically required for financial managers. Further certification such as chartered financial analyst (CFA) or certified treasury professional are an asset.

Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks

They typically prepare financial records for businesses and other organizations and are expected to continue to be in demand.

Degree level required: Individuals with some postsecondary education and equipped with basic math and computer skills, including knowledge of spreadsheets and bookkeeping software, may be eligible for these roles. Most technical skills can be acquired on the job. Some clerks may seek certifications such as those of certified bookkeeper (CB) or certified public bookkeeper (CPB).

Financial clerks

Financial clerks typically carry out administrative tasks such as maintaining financial records, conducting financial transactions and aiding customers in the same. Around 127,900 jobs are expected to become available from 2016 to 2026.

Degree level required: Individuals with a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification may be eligible to apply for positions as financial clerks.

How to become an accountant

To become an accountant, you may need to graduate from an accredited institution with a degree in accounting or in a subject such as business administration with a concentration in accounting. You may gain practical experience through internships with public accounting or business firms.

You may be required to obtain appropriate licensure or certification that qualifies you to perform specific responsibilities. Certification may enable you to practice a specific specialty or advance to more senior positions. Accountants who file reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) are legally required to be Certified Public Accountants (CPAs).

In some cases, junior level accounting professionals may acquire skills on the job and advance to more senior roles based on their experience.

How can you earn an accounting degree online?

The coursework required for most accounting degrees is theoretical. Therefore, a degree in accounting may be acquired conveniently in an online format. This allows participants the flexibility to attend to professional or family commitments while pursuing their education.

Most classes are conducted asynchronously. Students may access relevant course materials including videos through the institution’s online learning platform. Assignments usually have deadlines. Some courses may require occasional real-time online attendance for peer discussions or tutorials. Some degree programs may require students to complete an internship or work experience at an approved organization.

Many colleges and universities that offer accounting degree programs through distance education may provide online students with access to a digital library, counseling services, tutoring, and career guidance. You can look up various online degree programs in accounting on the Internet and compare the curricula, tuition and student support services available or you can visit our page on online accounting degree programs and check out our ranking of the best online colleges for accounting.

Learn more about careers in accounting with the help of the infographic below.

Sources

  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Accountants and Auditors, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/accountants-and-auditors.htm#tab-1 , accessed June 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Financial Analysts, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/financial-analysts.htm#tab-1 , accessed June 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Financial Managers, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/financial-managers.htm#tab-1 , accessed June 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/office-and-administrative-support/bookkeeping-accounting-and-auditing-clerks.htm#tab-1 , accessed June 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Financial Clerks, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/office-and-administrative-support/financial-clerks.htm#tab-1 , accessed June 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2018, Accountants and Auditors, https://www.bls.gov/oes/2018/may/oes132011.htm , accessed June 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2018, Financial Analysts, https://www.bls.gov/oes/2017/may/oes132051.htm , accessed June 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2018, Financial Managers, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes113031.htm , accessed June 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2018, Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes433031.htm , accessed June 2019
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2018, Financial Clerks, All Other, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes433099.htm , accessed June 2019

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What Can I Do With A Degree In Hospitality Management?

Over the centuries, people have been empowered to explore the world beyond their hometown boundaries thanks to advances in transportation and communication technologies. Remote parts of the globe that were previously closed off have now been opened up to tourism. For those with adventurous spirits who want to help others tap into their sense of wanderlust, a degree in hospitality management can open up a wealth of career opportunities.

In addition to jobs in tourism, those who pursue a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management also can become involved in event planning, facilities management and more. Some of the most popular academic specializations include:

  • Lodging
  • Tourism and Travel
  • Casinos
  • Food and Beverages
  • Conventions and Events

Meeting, Convention and Event Planning

Meeting, convention and event planning is one of the highest growth careers in the field of hospitality management. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that this job will grow 11 percent between 2016and 2026. These hospitality professionals meet with clients to plan events such as weddings, business conventions, parties, anniversaries and other occasions. They assist in coordinating amenities such as rooms, transportation and food, in addition to soliciting bids from various providers of these services.

Education Requirements

A bachelor’s degree and 1-2 years of experience is typically desired in this profession.

Certifications

There are two voluntary certifications which may enhance one’s candidacy among prospective clients or employers:

  1. Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation
  2. Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP) designation

Employment and Mean Wage Estimates (BLS, 2017)

  • Currently employed in this occupation: 102,420
  • Mean annual wage: $52,630
  • Top-paying locations for this occupation include District of Columbia, New York, New Jersey, Alaska and Connecticut.

Lodging management

Lodging management is another common career path for hospitality professionals, although the BLS projects that this career will grow only four percent between 2016 and 2026. Some of the responsibilities of this job include maintaining hotel standards for guest services, monitoring staff performance and allocating funds to various departments.

Education Requirements

A bachelor’s degree is highly recommended for those employed at full-service hotels.

Certification

Lodging managers may find it useful to earn a certification from the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute.

Employment and Mean Wage Estimates (BLS, 2017)

  • Currently employed in this occupation: 36,610
  • Mean annual wage: $59,620
  • Top-paying locations for this occupation include District of Columbia, New York, New Jersey, Hawaii and Nevada.

Food Service Management

Finally, food service management is another possible specialization for people interested in careers in hospitality. The BLS predicts nine percent growth for this industry between 2016and 2026. Some of the responsibilities include managing inventories, maintaining standards of customer service and ensuring compliance with health and food safety regulations.

Education Requirements

Similar to lodging managers, a bachelor’s degree is preferred for positions in upscale companies.

Certification

There’s a voluntary certification offered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation.

Employment and Mean Wage Estimates (BLS, 2017)

  • Currently employed in this occupation: 208,110
  • Mean annual wage: $57,250
  • Top-paying locations for this occupation include New Jersey, Delaware, District of Columbia, New York, and Connecticut.

A degree in hospitality management can provide a number of opportunities in hotels, restaurants, casinos and travel agencies, to name a few. Please check the visual below for salary information and a full list of references.

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What Can You Do With A Communications Degree?

The ability to understand subtle signals and communicate more effectively is one benefit of earning a degree in communications, particularly as it relates to employability and workplace effectiveness. The soft skills learned as a communications major can help graduates find work in a wide range of positions, including some of the fastest growing occupations in the country.

How Much Can You Make with a Communications Degree?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of media and communication occupations is projected to grow four percent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations, which is projected to result in about 46,200 new jobs. Demand for media and communication occupations is expected to arise from the need to create, edit, translate, and disseminate information through a variety of different platforms.

Southern New Hampshire University

  • Some of the nation’s most affordable tuition rates, from a private, nonprofit, NEASC accredited university
  • Qualified students with 2.5 GPA and up may receive up to $20K in grants & scholarships
  • Multiple term start dates throughout the year. 24/7 online classroom access
  • Offering over 200 online degree programs
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What are the Career Options for Communications Majors?

Here are the occupations that score big in terms of 2019 average pay (nationwide) for communication majors, according to the BLS:

  • Market research analyst, $71,570 per year
  • Technical writers, $76,860 per year
  • Public relations specialist, $70,190 per year
  • Interpreters and translators, $57,000 per year

Career Outlook for Market Research Analysts

Marketing and public relations careers are among the most in-demand available to communications and journalism graduates, according to BLS data. Market research analyst positions are expected to experience 20 percent job growth between 2018 and 2028 — a rate much faster than average — and the ability to clearly communicate the results of a market analysis can help a candidate land one of those emerging positions.

Here are the five states that pay the highest mean annual salaries to market research analysts, per BLS 2019 data:

  • New Jersey, $91,360
  • Washington, $88,290
  • Delaware, $84,990
  • District of Columbia, $82,300
  • California, $79,070

Career Outlook for Technical Writers

Although they’re not growing as fast as positions in market research, the BLS reports that technical writer jobs are still on the rise and tend to be most accessible to graduates with a bachelor’s degree in communications, English or journalism. Job growth of 8 percent is expected between 2018 and 2028, with most positions focusing on content development for computer and management books, magazines, newspapers and web properties.

Here are the five states that pay the highest mean annual salaries to technical writers, per BLS 2019 data:

  • District of Columbia, $93,910
  • California, $93,830
  • Massachusetts, $92,350
  • Washington, $86,490
  • Virginia, $85,470

Additional Career Opportunities for Communications Majors

For communications graduates who specialized in the “soft skills” of interpersonal awareness and emotional literacy, a career as a human resource manager could be the sleeper hit career of the year. Uncommon insight in recruiting, interviewing, screening and placing new hires within an organization is a rare and valuable talent, and exceptional HR managers can command impressive salaries at the upper end of the national range. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that this occupation had a nationwide average salary of $129,570 in 2019.

For more information on potential careers for communications grads, and a full list of sources, check out the visual below.

 

  • Human Resources Managers, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2019, Occupational Employment Statistics, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes113121.htm
  • Technical Writers, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2019, Occupational Employment Statistics, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes273042.htm
  • Market Research Analysts, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2019, Occupational Employment Statistics, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes131161.htm
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What Can I Do With A Degree In Economics?

A degree in economics can help students develop mathematical, analytical, and communication skills that are highly marketable in the workplace. Economists use empirical data to study human behavior and can make contributions to almost every discipline ranging from government policy, environmental strategies to everyday, household decisions.

Economists: Abilities and skills

Familiarity with economic laws and principles often leads economics majors to employment in the business and finance industries. The ability to forecast financial trends and consumer spending habits is highly sought after by organizations aiming to make smart financial, marketing, and product-related decisions. Analyzing specialized markets in business allows organizations to strategize around changes in the marketplace.

Economics majors are particularly adept in communicating their findings in written, verbal, and even visual formats, often to others who are outside their fields. Writing reports, developing charts to visually explain findings, and giving multimedia presentations are a few of the valuable skills often attained by these graduates. These abilities may help students communicate and collaborate effectively in a variety of industries and settings.

Careers for economics majors

Economic majors are not just confined to working in the business or finance fields, although these are the most common. According to the American Economic Association, other careers economics majors can find success in are law, medicine, government, nonprofits, international relations and academic roles. In fact, a degree in economics can give students a background in solving human problems using data and facts that can be applied to an array of interesting career choices.

Career outlook and potential earnings with an economics major

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job growth projections for economists from 2018 to 2028 is 8 percent (as fast as average for all other occupations). The mean annual wage for economists in 2019 was $116,630.

Top-paying industries for economists include:

  • Legal Services
  • Securities, Commodity Contracts, and Other Financial Investments and Related Activities
  • Monetary Authorities-Central Bank
  • Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
  • Other Information Services

Occupations that require an entry-level education of a bachelor’s degree include:

  • Actuaries
  • Budget analysts
  • Financial analysts
  • Market research analysts
  • Operations research analysts

Those who hold a master’s degree may find occupations such as:

  • Mathematicians
  • Statisticians
  • Political scientists
  • Survey researchers

A doctoral degree may be required for those seeking positions as a postsecondary teacher.

Online degree program options in economics

Students who would like to pursue a major in economics but are already working or have other responsibilities that prevent them from enrolling in a traditional, campus program may be interested in online degree programs. Many programs deliver fully online programs that allow you to study at your convenience.

Financial aid and scholarships for economics students

If you’re looking for ways to fund your education, take a look at the scholarships and grants offered by these organizations for economics degree students:

What jobs can you get with an economics degree? The infographic below examines some of the possible career paths for economics majors.

Source: What is Economics: Understanding the Discipline, American Economic Association, https://www.aeaweb.org/resources/students/what-is-economics, accessed July 2018

Please reference the visual for a full list of sources.

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What Can I Do With A Degree In Psychology?

According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics, psychology is one of the most common majors for undergraduates in the U.S, with more than 160,000 bachelor’s degrees awarded each year.

Psychology is a broad liberal arts field that covers subject matter ranging from biology to the humanities. Specializations in the field range from counseling to forensics to industrial organization. What these diverse niches have in common is a commitment to a scientific mode of inquiry that emphasizes observation, experimentation and analysis. Psychology majors can apply these skills to a wide range of careers in both the public and private sectors.

Industries and careers for psychology majors

Many psychology majors enjoy the benefits of self-employment, while most other psychology graduates typically find work in elementary and secondary schools, ambulatory healthcare services, the government and in hospitals. Before you can begin practicing psychology, however, you must pass licensure that can include a one-year internship and taking the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology. Criteria for licensure can vary from state to state.

While just under half of students who complete a bachelor’s degree in psychology go on to graduate school, potentially training to work as a licensed counselor or psychologist, others go on to find work in diverse industries. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that the field of psychology is expected to grow 14 percent through 2026 so there may be plenty of jobs when you graduate from school.

The annual mean wage for psychologists in 2016 was $94,650 (BLS). If you’re interested in working out of town, the following states had the highest annual mean wage in the U.S.:

  1. New York: $118,840
  2. California: $107,660
  3. Maryland: $101,880
  4. Oregon: $95,610
  5. Alaska: $95,270

What jobs can you get with a psychology degree?

A degree in psychology can lead you to various careers that are not only meaningful but can be profitable as well. A few examples of the different types of psychologists include:

  • Clinical psychologists
  • Counseling psychologists
  • School psychologists
  • Forensic psychologists
  • Developmental psychologists
  • Industrial-Organizational psychologists
  • Rehabilitation psychologists

Learn more about the field of psychology, as well as related career paths, in our infographic below.

Sources:

Careers in Psychology, American Psychological Association, 2016, http://www.apa.org/careers/resources/guides/careers.pdf

Psychologists, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2016, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/Life-Physical-and-Social-Science/Psychologists.htm

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The College Gender Gap

A recent study found that women value education more highly than men – the college graduation rate for young women hit an all-time high in 2010. In fact, women have been beating men in the bachelor’s degree race since 1992. That’s good news for the ladies, right?

Not so fast. It turns out that men may have a reason for not attaching as much importance to education as women – society thinks that a college degree is more important for women than for men in order to get ahead. Learn more interesting facts about men, women, and the degrees that separate them.

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It’s A Wonderful (Student) Life

The past several years have certainly been challenging for new college grads. A survey of students who graduated between 2006 and 2011 conducted by Rutgers University found that just over half of respondents have full time jobs today. The outlook for this year’s grads, however, may be looking a little brighter. 

All of that “real life” stuff can wait, however. Below, check out just how different student life and professional life can be. Somehow, the grass always seems greener on the other side…

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Social Recruiting: How To Use Social Media To Land A Job?

A survey by CareerBuilder showed that 70% of employers use social media sites to find candidates for recruitment. But how important is a social media profile? Forty-seven percent recruiters say that they are less likely to contact a candidate for an interview if the candidate cannot be found online. In fact, 20 % expect candidates to have an online presence. Thus, having a social media presence could boost your visibility to recruiters, making this an important reason to use social media strategically.

Can Social Media Land You a Job?

Research supports the strategy of using social media to find a job. A report published by Clutch in 2019 states that 14% of respondents who were hired in the earlier six months had got their jobs through social media. So, maintaining an active social media presence might be a good plan.

A recent survey by Jobvite shows that 35% of job seekers use social media to find out about job opportunities. But there is a lot more you can do. One of the advantages of using social media to find a job is that a well-structured social media presence can help demonstrate to recruiters who you are and what you can offer a future employer far better than your résumé can. Implementing the unique features of social media platforms and using best practices are smart strategies that may help you find a job that suits your abilities and ambitions.

Why do Recruiters/Employers Use Social Media to Recruit?

It’s not just job seekers — employers use social media too. One of the top ways that companies grow their employer brand is through social media. Social media enable recruiters to find quality hires by targeting talent, engaging candidates and evaluating applicants. A 2018 recruiter survey found that 77% of recruiters preferred LinkedIn for recruitment efforts, while 63% used Facebook and 25% used Instagram.

By researching social media profiles, hiring professionals can expand their recruiting pool, find individuals with suitable qualifications, assess if they are a good fit and correspond with them. Research shows that half of employers who research potential candidates using social media check if the individual has a professional online persona. Around 58% look for information that supports the candidate’s qualifications for the job and about 34% also look up what other people are posting about the individual.

Here are examples of what recruiters look for in candidates’ profiles on social media:

  • Qualifications for the job
  • The average length of tenure at past companies
  • How long the candidate has worked in their current role
  • Industry-related posts
  • Engagement in local or national organizations
  • Examples of written or design work
  • Mutual connections in the industry
  • Personality traits that may be an asset

Recruiters may also screen candidates’ social media profiles for evidence of undesirable behaviors such as posting inappropriate content, profanity, political rants, evidence of drug or alcohol use, errors in spelling and grammar and so on.

How Can Social Media Help You Get a Job?

Here are a few social media tips for job seekers.

  • Choose a social media platform based on your target industry. For example, Instagram may be preferred by industries focused on creative or visual skills while other employers may use LinkedIn.
  • Include a recent photograph of yourself to lend a recognizable face to your profile.
  • Create a profile that showcases your experience, expertise and the aspects of your personality that would make you an asset to a future employer.
  • Follow companies in your field.
  • Engage with other people who work in your industry, contribute to conversations and build genuine relationships.
  • Ask trusted individuals you’ve previously worked with for recommendations on LinkedIn.
  • Research and write industry-related blog posts on platforms like LinkedIn to build your credibility in the industry. Use keywords and hashtags that professionals in your field talk about and follow.
  • Establish yourself as a valuable resource by sharing content and information, making introductions and answering queries.
  • You could also use social management tools such as IFTTT, Hootsuite and Twitter lists to find job opportunities and manage your job hunting.
  • Set up a curated portfolio to highlight your skills and experience. Link it to your profile. You could also use social media to create teasers that link back to your portfolio or website.
  • Always ensure you use correct grammar, spelling and punctuation. This can surely help you create a good impression.

Learn about Social Media With an Online Degree

It’s an increasingly competitive labor market. Social media are like a marketplace where companies can promote their values and culture and engage with audiences and potential candidates — much like a marketer might engage with customers. Candidates too need to effectively market themselves as valuable future employees by showcasing their skills and experience. Therefore, whether you are a recruiter or a job seeker, it is essential to develop your communication and presentation skills to make an impact on social media. You could explore pursuing online degrees that could help you improve your social media marketing abilities for professional purposes. Many schools offer online degrees in communication and media that could help you craft an effective corporate campaign for your company on social media or a professional message for your personal profile. An online degree in advertising too could equip you with the skills to promote your company or your personal brand to target audiences on social media.

Sources

  • “More Than Half of Employers Have Found Content on Social Media That Caused Them NOT to Hire a Candidate, According to Recent CareerBuilder Survey”, published on 9 August, 2018, https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/more-than-half-of-employers-have-found-content-on-social-media-that-caused-them-not-to-hire-a-candidate-according-to-recent-careerbuilder-survey-300694437/ , accessed December 2019
  • Jobvite, 2019 Job Seeker Nation Survey, https://www.jobvite.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/2019_Job_Seeker_Nation.pdf , accessed December 2019
  • Jobvite, 2018 Recruiter Nation Survey, https://www.jobvite.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/2018-Recruiter-Nation-Study.pdf , accessed December 2019
  • Clutch, HR Survey, “How Do People Find Jobs?”, published on 9 January, 2019, https://clutch.co/hr/recruiting/resources/how-people-find-jobs , accessed December 2019
  • The New York Times, “How to Use Social Media in Your Career”, https://www.nytimes.com/guides/business/social-media-for-career-and-business , accessed December 2019
  • Forbes, “7 Ways to Use Social Media to Land a Job”, https://www.forbes.com/pictures/efkk45ehmek/7-ways-to-use-social-media-to-land-a-job/#45ec6c6c6ed1 , accessed December 2019
  • Business News Daily, “Keep It Clean: Social Media Screenings Gain in Popularity”, published on 7 October, 2018, https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/2377-social-media-hiring/ , accessed December 2019
  • Business News Daily, “Social Media Success: A Guide for Job Seekers”, published on 17 July, 2018, https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/7728-social-media-job-seeker-guide/ , accessed December 2019

College, According To Keywords

We use Google for everything—from finding the closest dry-cleaner to learning how to cook steak. Students are no different. Whether in seek of college admissions tips, degree program information, or the best college dining hall, Google is used widely in the collegiate world.

Recently, we took a closer look at Google search trends and came up with some fascinating information about student priorities. What is searched more: academic probation, or college GPA? Dean’s list, or beer pong? Student loans, or college scholarships? The answers might surprise you! Learn more about college according to Google in the below infographic. 

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