What Can I Do with my Degree?

[The Famous One]

ACCOUNTING

AREAS

PUBLIC ACCOUNTING

• Auditing/Assurance Services
• Tax
• Environmental Accounting
• Forensic/Investigative Accounting
• Information Technology Services
• International Accounting
• Personal Financial Planning

EMPLOYERS

• Large/multinational, Regional, or Local Public accounting firms
• Sole practitioners

STRATEGIES
Public accounting firms hire candidates who meet the educational requirements for sitting for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam: 150 hours of education including 24 hours of accounting, i.e. the equivalent of an undergraduate degree in accounting. State laws govern the practice of accountancy and specify the requirements to be eligible to sit for the CPA exam. In most states, the State Board of Accountancy has a website that outlines those requirements.

CORPORATE ACCOUNTING

• Financial Management
• Financial Reporting
• Internal Auditing
• Cost Accounting
• Tax Planning
• Budget Analysis

EMPLOYERS
Companies of all sizes, in all industries

STRATEGIES
Many managers in corporate settings obtain an MBA degree after several years of work experience.

GOVERNMENT

• Auditing
• Financial Reporting
• Financial Management
• Budget Analysis
• Research

EMPLOYERS
Federal agencies and departments including: Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service, Department of the Treasury, General Accounting Office, Office of Management and Budget, Securities Exchange Commission, and State and local agencies.

STRATEGIES
Become familiar with the government application process.

EDUCATION

• Teaching
• Research
• Consulting

EMPLOYERS
Universities and colleges

STRATEGIES

• A Ph.D. in Accounting or a DBA, Doctorate in Business Administration, in accounting is generally required
• Maintain a high GPA and secure strong faculty recommendations for admittance into graduate school.

NON-PROFIT

• Accounting
• Internal Audit
• Financial Planning
• Budgeting
• Money Handling
• Record Keeping

EMPLOYERS

• Social service agencies and organizations
• Hospitals
• Public school systems
• Universities and colleges
• Religious organizations
• Libraries and museums
• Political parties
• Labor unions

STRATEGIES
Volunteer at non-profit organizations and build a network of contacts in the non-profit sector.

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Earn good grades. Grades are an indicator of technical competence in accounting and of a person's work ethic.
• Actively participate in student organizations to develop leadership skills.
• Develop excellent computer skills.
• Learn to work well within in a team.
• Develop strong communication skills.
• Gain work experience and information about careers through internships.
• Join Beta Alpha Psi, the honorary fraternity for accounting and finance information professionals, to gain knowledge about the accounting profession.
• Certifications available through the Institute of Internal Auditors or the Institute of Management Accountants may increase job marketability in some areas of accounting.
• Accounting students should develop their analytical, critical-thinking and problem solving skills. Develop high ethical standards.
• Accuracy and attention to detail are important traits for accountants.
• Accounting is a versatile degree. Students who graduate with a major in accounting may find jobs in many areas of business including: sales, production management, client management, product development, procurement, general management, banking and financial planning.

 

[The Famous One]

ADVERTISING

AREAS

ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT

• Sales
• Development
• Marketing
• Administration

EMPLOYERS

• Advertising agencies
• Corporate advertising departments
• Specialty advertising firms
• Consulting firms
• Marketing firms
• Self employed/Freelance

STRATEGIES

• Gain sales experience.
• Work in sales at campus newspaper or radio station
• Develop organizational and communication skills.
• Learn to think strategically.

CREATIVE SERVICES

• Art
• Copywriting
• Print Production
• Publishing
• Technical Writing

EMPLOYERS

• Advertising agencies
• Consulting firms
• Publishers including: Trade books, Paperback, Educational materials, Technical, scientific and medical texts
• Internet sites

STRATEGIES

• Develop and strengthen art skills.
• This is the creative side of advertising.
• Compile a portfolio of writing, graphics and ideas.
• Gain knowledge of production and printing.
• Work with college or regional magazines and campus publications.
• Take technical writing courses for technical areas of interest.
• Learn how to sell your ideas.
• Get experience in the field, even if unpaid.

MEDIA

• Advertising Sales
• Planning/Buying
• Public Relations/Promotion
• Research
• Design, Art and Production
• Direct Marketing -Direct marketers advertise directly to the customer through mail, magazines, radio, or TV to get an immediate response by telephone, mail, or fax.

EMPLOYERS

• Advertising agencies
• Business corporations
• Publishers
• Television
• Radio
• Newspapers
• Magazines
• Government agencies
• Internet marketers

STRATEGIES

• Secure internships.
• Get practical experience through part-time or summer positions.
• Develop creativity and learn to take initiative.
• Join campus or local newspaper or radio advertising staff.
• Create a portfolio.

RESEARCH

• Statistics
• Focus Group Moderation
• Interviewing
• Project Management
• Supervision

EMPLOYERS

• Advertising firms
• Corporate advertising departments
• Specialty advertising firms
• Research laboratories
• Consulting firms

STRATEGIES

• A Master's or Ph.D. may be required for advanced statistical analysis.
• Need experience with statistics, data interpretation, and writing.
• Complete a co-op program or internship at a market research firm.
• It is critical to be computer literate and somewhat mathematically adept since research tends to involve "number crunching."

PUBLIC RELATIONS

• Special Events
• Media Relations
• Risk and Crisis Communication
• Health Communication
• Fundraising

EMPLOYERS

• Public relations firms
• Corporate in-house public relations departments
• Trade associations
• Government agencies
• Colleges and universities
• Non-profit organizations
• Labor unions
• Hospitals

STRATEGIES

• Get practical experience, even if unpaid.
• Perfect public speaking ability.
• Demonstrate enthusiasm, interpersonal skills, persuasion, teamwork, integrity, good judgment, and intelligence.
• Develop creativity and initiative.
• Secure internships, even if unpaid.

GENERAL INFORMATION

• For advertising management positions, courses should include marketing, consumer behavior and market research.
• Promoting experienced staff fills most advertising positions. Be willing to start in an entry-level position in order to get your foot in the door.
• Be willing to relocate to larger markets such as New York, Chicago or Los Angeles for more job opportunities.
• Obtain experience through a summer job, part-time job or internship.
• Save work along the course of your studies and employment to be used for a portfolio. It is better to have too much to choose from instead of too little.
• You may need additional areas of expertise for newspaper or television, such as printing and photography.
• Overall, individuals in the advertising area need to be excellent communicators, good listeners, team players, professional, hard working, creative, flexible and enthusiastic.

 

[The Famous One]

COMPUTER SCIENCE
The field of computer science is constantly changing. The areas listed below do not exhaust possible career options.
AREAS

PROGRAMMING

• Systems
• Scientific Applications
• Business Applications: Intelligence, Warehousing, Information Delivery, Maintenance
• Project Management

EMPLOYERS

• Computer vendors
• Software and computer companies
• Any large organization including: Banks, retail chains, manufacturers, universities, and government agencies
• Management consulting firms
• Contract and temporary employers
• Research laboratories

STRATEGIES

• Gain relevant experience through internships or co-ops.
• Develop an attention to detail and a flair for creativity.
• Learn to work well with a team and to meet deadlines.
• Supplement computer degree with courses in business, science, or engineering.
• Stay current on programming languages.
• Earn a master's degree for upper level positions.
• Seek the Certified Computing Professional designation by completing a series of exams and experiential requirements.

SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

• Analysis
• Design
• Support
• Quality Assurance
• Specialty Systems: Database, Client-Server, Expert

EMPLOYERS

• Banks and financial institutions
• Insurance companies
• Consulting firms
• Manufacturers
• Local, state, and federal government
• Computer companies
• Research institutions

STRATEGIES

• Develop strong interpersonal skills
• Learn to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical colleagues
• Gain programming experience. Many analysts begin their careers as programmers
• Become an effective problem solver
• Take business courses
• Earn an M.B.A. degree for advanced positions
• Plan to continually educate self on new computer languages and technology.

NETWORK TECHNOLOGY

• Installation and Maintenance
• Administration

EMPLOYERS

Variety of organizations and industries
STRATEGIES

• Work in university computer labs
• Develop good communication skills and an interest in helping others
• Gain knowledge in a variety of computer areas including minor programming, software, and hardware
• Stay abreast of the latest technology and software
• Earn certifications in networking and computer security.

INTERNET

• Programming
• Software Design
• Systems Analysis
• Hardware Production
• Web Page Design

EMPLOYERS

• Network access points
• Backbone operators
• Online service providers
• Internet service providers
• Computer/equipment vendors
• Internet-related companies including: Browsers, Search engines, Website design services
• Large businesses

STRATEGIES

• Gain experience as a webmaster through part-time jobs, internships, or volunteering to design web pages for student organizations
• Learn web-related programming languages
• Take graphic design courses to develop creativity
• Learn to communicate and work well with others in a team by participating in group projects or student organizations
• Earn a master's degree in computer science for advanced opportunities in programming, analysis, or hardware/software design.

CONSULTING

• System Installation
• System Implementation
• Training

EMPLOYERS

• Consulting firms
• Self-employed

STRATEGIES

• Obtain a strong technical knowledge of computers, a background in business management, and experience as a systems analyst
• Learn various programming languages and operating systems
• Develop exceptional analytical and interpersonal skills.

EDUCATION

• Teaching
• Instructional Technology

EMPLOYERS

• Public and private schools, K-12
• Colleges and universities

STRATEGIES

• Certification required for public school teaching
• Earn a doctoral degree in computer science for post-secondary teaching
• Earn a graduate degree in information technology or a related field for instructional technology
• Develop a research specialty for university teaching. Gain experience working with other students through tutoring or positions in computer labs.

NON-TECHNICAL

• Customer/Product Support
• Technical Writing
• Sales and Marketing

EMPLOYERS

• Software/hardware manufacturers
• Retail stores
• Software vendors

STRATEGIES

• Develop excellent communication skills and an interest in helping customers solve problems
• Work in university computer labs
• Supplement curriculum with technical writing courses to develop skills
• Seek related work experiences.

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Complete informational interviews with current computer science professionals to help establish career goals.
• Having related experience is critical to most employers that hire computer science majors. Obtain an internship, co-op, or part-time job in a relevant area to increase employability.
• Obtain vendor specific certifications or networking certifications to gain a competitive edge.
• Develop strong interpersonal, communication, and other "soft skills." Learn to work well on a team.
• Programming and consulting may go hand-in-hand. Many occupations in these areas have responsibilities that overlap.

 

[The Famous One]

ENGINEERING
AREAS

ANY ENGINEERING DISCIPLINE

• Production
• Sales and Marketing
• Management
• Consulting
• Research and Development
• Teaching
• Law

EMPLOYERS

• Industry
• Business
• Federal, state, and local government
• Colleges and universities

STRATEGIES

• Obtain related experience through co-op or internships for business/industry-related career
• MBA degree provides best opportunities in technical management
• Obtain Ph.D. for optimal teaching and research careers
• Develop strong verbal and written communication skills
• Learn federal, state, and local government job application procedures.

AEROSPACE

• Propulsion
• Fluid Mechanics
• Thermodynamics
• Structures
• Celestial Mechanics
• Acoustics
• Guidance and Control

EMPLOYERS

• Aircraft, guided missile, and space vehicle industries
• Communications equipment manufacturers
• Commercial airlines
• Federal government departments: Defense, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
• Business and engineering firms

STRATEGIES

• Discipline uses cutting edge technology to deal with challenges of aeronautics, space, mass transportation, environmental pollution, and medical science.
• Keep abreast of status of federal funding for defense and space programs.
• Seek co-op opportunities. Develop effective verbal and written communication skills. Learn to work well within a team.

BIOSYSTEMS ENGINEERING

• Natural Resources: Soil and Water Conservation
• International Consulting
• Environmental Control
• Agricultural Structures
• Power and Machinery
• Electronic Systems
• Food Engineering
• Genetic Engineering
• Engineering Technology

EMPLOYERS

• Technological agricultural industries
• Land grant universities: Experimental farm stations, Research laboratories
• Consulting firms
• Equipment design, testing, and manufacturing firms
• Equipment and food industries including processing, packaging, and storing
• Quality control for food, feed, fiber, etc.
• Biotechnology research firms
• Foreign Service

STRATEGIES

• A broad, basic engineering discipline with a close relationship to the environment, food production, and agricultural productivity.
• Participate in internship or co-op programs. Acquire strong computer skills.
• Learn a foreign language for work in foreign service. Develop strong math and problem solving skills.

BIOMEDICAL

• Bioengineering: Design, Development, Manufacturing
• Medical Engineering: Instrumentation, Materials, Diagnostic/Therapeutic Devices, Artificial Organs, Medical Equipment
• Rehabilitation Engineering
  Bio-environmental Engineering

EMPLOYERS

• Manufacturers of medical and surgical devices
• Hospitals and healthcare facilities
• Federal government: Regulatory agencies, Veteran's Administration, National Institutes of Health, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
• Industry
• Research facilities of educational and medical institutions

STRATEGIES

Discipline combines engineering and human anatomy to develop and maintain medical and healthcare systems and equipment. Develop strong team work skills. Many positions require a graduate or professional degree. Serves as a good background for medical school.
CHEMICAL

• Administration
• Design and Construction: Project Engineering, Control Systems, Field Engineering, Process Engineering, Operations/Production
• Environmental and Waste Management: Development, Design

EMPLOYERS

• Independent research institutes
• Consulting organizations
• Chemical industry including: Agricultural chemicals, Plastics, Industrial chemicals, Petroleum, Pharmaceutical, Cosmetic, Food processing, Atomic energy development, Environmental
• Federal government including: Department of Energy, Environmental Protection Agency
• Manufacturing plants including automotive, airplane, paper, microelectronics, textiles, metals, rubber, food, and beverage

STRATEGIES

• Combines science of chemistry with discipline of engineering to solve problems and develop efficiency.
• Develop exceptional interpersonal skills. Acquire technical work experience during college years.

CIVIL

• Structural
• Urban and Community Planning
• Construction
• Environmental
• Water Resources
• Transportation and Pipeline
• Geotechnical
• Photogrammetry, Surveying and Mapping
• Materials

EMPLOYERS

• Construction industry
• Engineering or architectural firms
• Utility companies
• Oil companies
• Telecommunications businesses
• Manufacturing companies
• Consulting firms
• Railroads
• State and federal government agencies

STRATEGIES

• Broad discipline of "doers" providing service to the community through development and improvement
• Works extensively with other professionals involved with the community. Provides opportunity to work outdoors
• Learn to work well within a team. Develop strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Develop physical stamina for outdoor work
• Get experience in organizing and directing workers and materials
• Ability to visualize objects in three dimensions is helpful
• Demand has remained steady due to broad nature of discipline
• States may require licensing or registration.

ELECTRICAL/COMPUTER

• Power Electronics
• Power Systems
• Communications
• Electronics
• Control Systems
• Digital Signal Processing
• Microelectronics
• Image Processing & Robotics
• Computer Engineering
• Plasma Engineering
• Computer Vision

EMPLOYERS

• Manufacturing firms and industry including: Aeronautical/Aerospace, Automotive, Business machines, Professional and scientific equipment, Consumer products, Chemical and petrochemical, Computers, Construction, Defense, Electric utilities, Electronics, Environmental, Food and beverage, Glass, ceramics, and metals, Machine tools, Mining and metallurgy, Nuclear, Oceanography, Pulp and paper, Textiles, Transportation, Water and wastewater
• Public utilities
• Federal government including: Armed forces, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), National Institutes of Health, Bureau of Standards, Department of Defense, Various commissions
• Consulting firms
• Free-lance consulting

STRATEGIES

• A field in touch with a wide and growing range of applications such as high speed and wireless communication, exploration of outer space, and a revolution in medical diagnosis and treatment.
• Develop effective verbal and written communication skills
• Gain experience in team work. Acquire capacity for details. Develop interpersonal skills. Obtain research experience.

INDUSTRIAL

• Operations Research
• Applied Behavioral Science Systems
• Manufacturing Management
• Information Engineering
• Computer Systems Design and Development

EMPLOYERS

• Manufacturing industries
• Accounting firms
• Retail distribution organizations
• Banks and financial institutions
• Hospitals and healthcare organizations
• Educational and public service agencies
• Transportation industries
• Construction industries
• Public utilities
• Electrical and electronics machinery industries
• Consulting firms

STRATEGIES

• Discipline links management and operations by improving productivity through a "big picture" approach; serves human needs and works with people.
• Take courses in psychology, sociology and anthropology to learn more about people and how they behave. Earn an MBA for advancement in management or administration.

MATERIALS SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

• Metallurgy
• Ceramics
• Plastics/Polymers
• Composites
• Research
• Extractive
• Process
• Applications
• Management
• Sales
• Service
• Consulting

EMPLOYERS

• Materials producing companies
• Manufacturing companies including automobiles, appliances, electronics, aerospace equipment, machinery, medicine
• Service companies including airlines, railroads, and utilities
• Consulting firms<
• Government agencies: Department of Defense, National Aeronautics Space Administration (NASA)
• Research institutes
• Publishers

STRATEGIES

• Studies properties of various types of materials and how they are made and behave under different conditions. Many positions require a graduate degree.
• Some areas benefited by additional study in business administration, medicine, management and/or law. Develop good communication skills. Gain laboratory and research experience as an undergraduate.

MECHANICAL

• Mechanical Power Generation: Internal Combustion Engines, Jet Engines, Steam Power Plants, Rockets, Energy Utilization and Conservation
• Thermal/Fluids: Thermodynamics, Environmental Control, Refrigeration, Instrumentation and Control
• Machine Sciences: Mechanical Design, Manufacturing and Production, Robotics, Operation and Maintenance

EMPLOYERS

• Transportation: Automotive industry, aerospace industry, military laboratories
• Utilities: Steam driven electric power stations
• Equipment Design: Plants, Nuclear power stations
• Electronics industry
• Petro-Chemical: Drilling & production, plant operations
• Manufacturing: Consumer products, chemical products, farm equipment, industrial equipment, paper and wood products, textile equipment
• Consulting engineering firms

 

[The Famous One]

*continuation*
STRATEGIES

• Takes broad outlook on solving complex problems
• Involves design, development and production
• Keeps pace with technology. Acts as an interface between society and technology
• Obtain related experience through internships or co-op
• Take additional courses in area(s) of interest
• Develop strong interpersonal and communication skills.

• Design
• Planning
• Operations
• Administration
• Regulations

EMPLOYERS

• Private industry and businesses involved with air pollution control, industrial hygiene, radiation protection, hazardous waste management, toxic materials control, water supply, storm water and wastewater management, solid waste disposal, public health, and land management
• Private engineering consulting firms
• Construction firms
• Research firms
• Testing laboratories
• International organizations

STRATEGIES

• Discipline plays vital role in reducing toxicity and pollution of water, ground and air for a better quality of life for all living things
• Consider a master's degree for advancement
• Foreign language ability beneficial for international work.

NUCLEAR

• Environment and Pollution
• Health
• Space Exploration
• Consumer and Industrial Power
• Food Supply
• Transportation
• Water Supply

EMPLOYERS

• Electric and gas utility companies
• Guided missile and space vehicle companies
• Engineering consulting firms
• Business services including medical industry
• Manufacturers of nuclear power equipment
• Research facilities
• Military services
• Defense manufacturers

STRATEGIES

• Discipline studies basic components of neutrons, protons, electrons and all matter; deals with inanimate substances.

ENGINEERING SCIENCE AND MECHANICS

• Engineering Mechanics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Computational Mechanics
• Engineering Materials

EMPLOYERS

• Industry
• Manufacturing
• Research organizations

STRATEGIES

• Interdisciplinary program with broad training in engineering science, mathematics, and physical or biological science.

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Bachelor's degree provides wide range of career opportunities in industry, business, and government.
• Graduate degrees offer more opportunities for career advancement.
• Bachelor's degree is good background for pursuing technical graduate degrees as well as professional degrees in Business Administration, Medicine or Law.
• Related work experience obtained through co-op, internships, part-time or summer jobs, or regular employment is extremely beneficial.
• Develop computer expertise within field.
• Engineers need to think in scientific and mathematical terms, have ability to study data, sort out important facts, solve problems, and be logical thinkers. Creativity is useful.
• Other helpful traits include intellectual curiosity, technical aptitude, perseverance, ability to communicate and work well with others, a commitment to teamwork, and a basic understanding of the economic and environmental context in which engineering is practiced.
• Develop excellent verbal and written communications skills including presentation and technical report writing.
• All states and the District of Columbia require registration of engineers whose work may affect the life, health, or safety of the public.
• Professional or technical societies confer certification in some areas.
• Join related professional organizations.
• Most fields offer overseas opportunities with businesses or government agencies.
• Because of rapid changes in most engineering fields, both continued education and keeping abreast of new developments are very important.
• Most states require an EIT (Engineer-In-Training) test before taking a state examination to become a Professional Engineer (PE).
• Search the Internet for additional information about individual disciplines.

 

[The Famous One]

FINANCE
AREAS

CORPORATE AND PUBLIC FINANCE

• Financial Analysis
• Cash Management
• Credit Management
• Budget Analysis
• Investment Management
• Investor Relations
• Financial Reporting
• Payroll
• Benefits
• Real Estate
• Risk Management

EMPLOYERS

• Private businesses of all sizes and types
• State and local government entities
• Federal agencies including: Internal Revenue Service, Treasury Department
• Schools and universities
• Non-profit organizations
• Foundations
• Hospitals

STRATEGIES

• Complete a related internship
• Develop strong computer skills, including spreadsheets, databases, and presentation software
• Sharp analytical skills are crucial in this industry
• Earn an MBA to reach the highest levels of corporate finance.

BANKING

• Corporate Credit Analysis
• Commercial Lending
• Trust Management
• Capital Services and Mergers & Acquisitions
• Mortgage Loans
• Originations and Packaging
• Branch Management
• Operations
• Cash Management
• Credit Scoring and Risk Management
• Private Banking

EMPLOYERS

• Commercial banks
• Credit unions
• Savings and loan associations
• Savings banks
• Mortgage banks
• Captive finance companies
• Regulatory agencies including: Federal Reserve, FDIC, OCC, OTS

STRATEGIES

• Develop a solid background in business including marketing and accounting.
• Get experience through part-time, summer or internship positions in a financial service firm
• Develop strong interpersonal and communication skills in order to work well with a diverse clientele.

INSURANCE

• Claims Analysis
• Underwriting
• Risk Management
• Sales
• Actuarial Science
• Loss Control

EMPLOYERS

• Life insurance firms
• Property and casualty insurance firms
• Commercial banks
  Savings banks

STRATEGIES

• Complete an internship with an insurance agency
• Talk to professionals in the industry to learn more about claims, underwriting, and risk management
• Many good, entry-level positions exist in these areas
• Initiative and sales ability are necessary to be a successful agent or broker
• Develop strong communication skills, as many positions require interaction with others and the ability to explain information clearly and concisely
• Take additional statistics classes to prepare for a career in actuary science
• Prepare to take the first in a series of actuarial examinations.

PERSONAL FINANCIAL PLANNING

• Sales
• Customer Service
• Operations
• Portfolio Management

EMPLOYERS

• Brokerage firms
• Trust companies
• Financial partnerships
• Multi-line insurance firms
• Sole practitioners

STRATEGIES

• Gain experience in sales. Must be highly motivated and entrepreneurial.
• Research how one obtains the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation.
• Develop a solid personal network.

REAL ESTATE

• Residential Brokerage
• Commercial Sales
• Appraisals
• Property Management
• Real Estate Portfolio Management

EMPLOYERS

• Real estate brokers
• Commercial banks
• Appraisal firms
• Apartment and condominium complexes
• Developers
• Real estate investment trusts
• Mutual funds

STRATEGIES

• Obtain sales experience through part-time, summer or internship positions.
• Research how to become a real estate broker through the National Association of Realtors. Develop an entrepreneurial spirit. Research apprenticeships in appraisal.

INVESTMENT BANKING

• Corporate Financial Analysis
• Mergers and Acquisitions
• Equity and Debt
• Underwriting
• Institutional Bond and Equity Sales
• Retail Bond and Equity Sales
• Business Valuation
• Business Sale Transactions
• Currency Trading
• Derivatives, e.g. options
• Trading
• Venture Capital Fund Management
• New Venture Analysis

EMPLOYERS

• Investment banking firms (Changes in laws have created a fluid situation in this industry; Mergers and acquisitions continue to take place.)
• Financial services firms
• Insurance firms (The Gramm Leach Bliley Act of 1999 allowed financial services firms to acquire or build investment banking subsidiaries and vice versa.)

STRATEGIES

• An M.B.A. is required to move beyond the entry-level analyst position in investment banking. Investment banking is highly competitive. Be prepared to work many hours of overtime per week, start at the bottom, and pay your dues.
• Develop strong analytical and communication skills. Cultivate personal ambitiousness. Obtain a Series 7 License for both institutional and retail broker sales positions. Work toward the CFA designation.

MONEY MANAGEMENT

• Research
• Trading
• Marketing
• Portfolio Management

EMPLOYERS

• Portfolio management firms
• Commercial banks
• Investment banks
• Federal Reserve banks
• Insurance firms

STRATEGIES

• Most positions require an advanced degree in economics, finance or business and many years of financial experience.

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Quantitative skills are extremely important. Take additional courses in math, statistics, and accounting.
• Many positions in finance require the ability to analyze and interpret data.
• Develop strong interpersonal and communication skills. Cultivate an eye for detail.
• Gain experience through internships, summer and part-time positions.
• Read the Wall Street Journal and other financial news magazines to stay abreast of current events and to learn more about the industry.
• Join student professional associations in the field of finance.
• Several professional designations and licenses, e.g. Chartered Financial Analyst or Certified Financial Planner, are available to finance professionals working in a particular area. Earning these designations may help one obtain advanced positions.

GRAPHIC DESIGN
AREAS


PRINT DESIGN

• Type Design
• Magazine Design
• Newspaper Design
• >Book Publishing
• Publication Design
• Brochure/Newsletter Design
• Cover Design:
  - Book
  - CD
  - Video
• Label Design
• Publicity Pieces
• Advertising Layout
• Photo Editing/Photoshop Art
• Illustration
• Identity Design
  - Logo Design
• Branding

EMPLOYERS

• Publishers including:
  - Magazine
  - Periodical
  - Book
  - Directory
  - Newspaper
• Design firms
• Advertising agencies
• Publishing houses
• Business form companies
• Publicity firms
• In-house creative departments
• Large retail stores
• Nonprofit organizations
• Government agencies
• Universities
• Self-employed (freelance)

STRATEGIES

• Graphic designers have a hand in creating countless items, large and small, from posters to identity systems and much more
• Research all the niche areas and then gain the tools and technological skills to succeed in that area
• Assemble an impressive portfolio of work samples
• Complete a related internship to gain relevant experience and to contribute to your portfolio
• Work on campus publications in design or layout or find a part-time position with a local publication
• Develop excellent communication skills and learn to work well on a team of professionals
• Volunteer to create brochures, newsletters or other publications for campus organizations
• Develop problem-solving skills, attention to detail and the ability to meet deadlines
• Join professional associations as a student member
• Become knowledgeable in production and printing processes
• Develop broad software application skills in MAC and PC based programs but not at the cost of developing a solid background in design
• Participate in local or campus design contests.

THREE DIMENSIONAL DESIGN

• Signage
• Signage Systems
• Packaging
• Exhibition Design
• Environmental Design
• Promotional Display Design

EMPLOYERS

• Design firms
• Product design divisions of large corporations
• In-house creative departments
• Advertising agencies
• Museums and attractions
• Government agencies
• Self-employed (freelance)

STRATEGIES

• Find an internship in a design studio that specializes in 3D design especially for signage, exhibition, promotional display and environmental design which are very specialized
• Gain skills in model building and three-dimensional design
• Develop a willingness to experiment
• Join a related professional association such as the Package Designers Council
• Develop excellent computer skills and strong written and oral communication skills
• Participate in design contests.

ELECTRONIC MEDIA DESIGN/4D DESIGN

• Digital
• Multimedia
• Film Title
• Television Graphics
• Video Games
• Computer Graphics
• Motion Graphics
• Animation
• Website Design
• Interactive Media

EMPLOYERS

• Film studios
• Motion picture production firms
• Television stations
• Computer systems design firms
• Video game designers
• Software firms
• Video production houses
• Internet media companies
• Online publishers
• Online retailers

 

[The Famous One]

*continuation*
STRATEGIES

• This is a highly specialized area of design that is not widely taught in all design programs
• Research programs carefully to find ones that emphasize this area
• Consider attending specialized programs in order to learn about television and motion graphics, animation and video game design
• Develop excellent computer skills in a variety of platforms and design software
• Gain relevant experience through part-time jobs and internships
• Volunteer to design the website for a student or local community organization
• Work for the campus television station
• To work in television and film, consider relocating to areas of the country where the entertainment industry is more prevalent
• Stay current with media and cultural trends
• Participate in design contests.

ADVERTISING

• Creative Services
• Art Direction
• Production
• Copywriting
• Corporate Identity Design
• Branding
• Logo Design

EMPLOYERS

• Advertising agencies
• In-house creative departments
• Television
• Radio
• Newspapers
• Magazines

STRATEGIES

• Supplement curriculum with course work in advertising or business
• Complete an internship in an advertising agency
• Work on the campus newspaper in the advertising division
• Learn to work well in team environments and to communicate your ideas effectively
• Develop the ability to meet deadlines and work under pressure
• Be prepared to move to larger cities for the most job opportunities
• Learn to work with a variety of media
• Create a strong portfolio of a work samples.

GENERAL INFORMATON

• Carefully research design programs to find one that fits your career goals. Programs vary in terms of the areas taught so not all programs will prepare students for all areas of design.
• Approximately 3 in 10 graphic designers are self-employed. Freelance designers must develop strong abilities in networking, sales and persuasion.
• Graphic designers work in countless industries on a wide array of projects. Research the field thoroughly to learn about career options and the experiences and skills necessary to work in those areas. Some graphic designers choose to specialize their work while others complete a variety of projects.
• Be prepared to start entry-level and work you way up the career ladder. Take a first job based on the industry and type of design you desire to work with because work from your first job will comprise your professional portfolio.
• Some graphic design areas cross in multiple media such as educational design, identity design, information design and systems design.
• Graphic designers must be able to tolerate criticism and direction in their work, since much of their work involves creating a product for a customer.
• Graphic designers are typically artistically skilled, imaginative, and effective problem-solvers.
• Develop a solid background in communications theory.
• Learn to listen effectively to client needs and communicate ideas effectively.
• Subscribe to and read graphic design materials such as Print, Eye, Communication Arts, Step into Graphics, Griphis, Computer Graphics and Applications, and others relevant to your interests.
• Student design magazines such as, CMYK and Creative Convocation, solicit student work and have regular competitions. Try to get your work published.
• Join major design organizations and societies, e.g. The American Institute of Graphic Arts, The Society of Publication Designers, University and College Design Association, New York Directors Club, Society of Illustrators, or the Graphic Arts Technical Foundation.
• Become familiar with as many computer graphics and design software packages such as Quark, Photoshop, and Illustrator. Plan to stay up-to-date on new developments in the industry.
• Successful graphic designers are well read and in-touch with changing consumer preferences and can react to new trends. Learn about your product and who will use it. A liberal arts education helps designers learn a little about a lot of things. Additionally, graphic designers should develop good research skills, work well on a team, and learn a foreign language if working in international design.
• Graphic design is moving towards a more user/viewer way of thinking that allows the user/viewer to contribute to the design.
• Many design schools are shifting towards a more activist attitude teaching ethical behavior, green-uses of design, and using the power of design to rally people behind causes that affect us all.

 

[The Famous One]

HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT/DEVELOPMENT

AREAS

HUMAN RESOURCES

• Benefits
• Compensation
• Employee Relations
• Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS)
• Labor Relations
• Selection and Placement
• Recruiting
• Retention
• Occupational Safety
• Equal Employment Opportunity
• Diversity Issues
• Policy Development

EMPLOYERS

• Financial institutions
• Hotel, restaurant, and retail chains
• Manufacturing firms
• Hospitals and healthcare organizations
• Educational institutions
• Employment and staffing agencies
• Professional employment organizations (PEOs)
• Other medium and large size organizations
• Nonprofit organizations
• Labor unions
• Federal government agencies including: Department of Labor, Employment Security Commission, Bureau of Labor
• Local and state government agencies

STRATEGIES

• Develop strong computer skills, especially with spreadsheets and databases.
• Obtain internships in human resources
• Develop presentation skills and conflict resolution abilities through coursework and activities
• Cultivate strong analytical skills
• Be willing to start in an entry-level human resources or benefits assistant position
• Learn about Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards and compliance
• Earn a graduate degree (MBA, masters, or law) to reach the highest levels of human resource management
• Learn government application procedures
• Complete a federal government internship program.

TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

• Industrial Training
• Technology Training
• Management Development
• Performance Improvement
• Organizational Change

EMPLOYERS

• Corporate universities
• Consulting firms
• Manufacturing companies
• Retail and customer service industries
• Restaurant and hotel chains
• Business and industry training facilities
• Educational institutions

STRATEGIES

• Obtain related experience through internships and part-time or summer jobs.
• Develop the ability to comprehend operational systems and to process new information quickly
• Acquire current knowledge of issues in technology, industry, and business education through professional association journals
• Develop solid knowledge of the content area being addressed in training
• Be prepared to start working in another area of human resources before moving into a training position
• Learn about Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards and compliance
• Learn about International Organization for Standardization (ISO) criteria.

NON-PROFIT

• Development
• Volunteer Coordination
• Programming
• Administration

EMPLOYERS

• Community agencies
• Healthcare organizations
• Private foundations

STRATEGIES

• Volunteer in community development projects or with an organization of interest.
• Take on leadership roles in campus organizations
• Learn how to administer a budget through coursework or volunteering
• Develop planning skills. Obtain an internship in fund-raising or related field.

LAW

• Arbitration and Mediation
• Labor Relations
• Employment Law

EMPLOYERS

• Law firms
• Large corporations
• Government agencies
• Public interest legal agencies

STRATEGIES

• Obtain a law degree.
• Join a debate team and participate in mock trial.
• Take courses in employment law, conflict management, and labor relations.
• Gain experience with mediation.

INDUSTRIAL/ORGANIZATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY

• Organizational Development
• Assessment and Evaluation
• Personnel Selection
• Performance Appraisal
• Job Analysis
• Individual Development
• Labor Relations
• Ergonomics
• Teaching
• Research

EMPLOYERS

• Consulting firms
• Educational services
• Colleges and universities
• Private and public companies
• Government agencies
• Military research organizations
• Test preparation companies

STRATEGIES

• Double major or minor in psychology as an undergraduate
• Earn a doctoral degree in industrial/organizational psychology
• Demonstrate strong interest in studying the behavior of people at work
• Obtain internships in areas of organizational development
• Conduct independent research study in areas of interest
• Develop aptitude in statistical analysis and computers.

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Be prepared to start in entry level positions within organizations and work up to positions of greater responsibility. Develop an area of expertise along the way.
• Graduate education including MBA, MS, or JD qualifies one for higher salaries and positions with greater responsibility.
• Obtain internships in an area of interest such as human resources, training, or organizational development.
• Participate in related co-curricular activities and obtain leadership positions to broaden skills.
• Successful human resource professionals are business-minded and well-rounded. Cultivate "hard skills" such as technology and statistics along with "soft skills" such as mediating and advising.
• Develop excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Demonstrate a strong desire to work with people of various backgrounds and educational levels.
• Learn desktop publishing and other software packages.
• Become familiar with current business literature and news.
• Join professional associations in field of interest, such as American Society for Training and Development, Society for Human Resource Management, American Management Association, Employment Management Association, Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology, and others.
• Become a member of the student organization, Association of Human Resource Development Students (AHRDS). Network with human resource managers through AHRDS meetings.

 

[The Famous One]

MANAGEMENT
AREAS

MANAGEMENT

EMPLOYERS

• Business and industry including: Banks and financial institutions, Retail stores, Restaurants, Hotels, Service providers, Healthcare organizations
• Local, state and federal government
• Nonprofit organizations
• Self-employed

STRATEGIES

• Be prepared to start in entry-level management trainee positions
• Gain experience through internships or jobs
• Work at a retail store or restaurant, and advance into an assistant manager position
• Get involved in student organizations and assume leadership roles
• Demonstrate an entrepreneurial spirit, a strong work ethic, integrity, and a sense of independence
• Take courses in a secondary specialty such as marketing or information systems to increase job opportunities
• Learn to work well on a team.

HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

• Recruiting/Staffing
• Compensation
• Benefits
• Training
• Safety
• Employee Relations
• Industrial Relations
• Equal Employment Opportunity

EMPLOYERS

• Large corporate entities
• Service industry
• Hospitals and healthcare organizations
• Universities
• Temporary or staffing agencies
• Executive search firms
• Local, state and federal government
• Labor unions

STRATEGIES

• Take courses in the social sciences such as psychology and sociology
• Gain relevant experience through internships
• Develop strong verbal and written communication skill
• Learn to solve problems creatively
• Develop strong computer skills because many human resource systems are automated.
• Join the Society of Human Resource Management and other related professional associations. Be prepared for continuous learning once in the profession.
• Earn a master's degree for career advancement.

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT

• Operations Research Analysis: Business strategy, Facilities layout, Inventory control, Personnel scheduling
• Production Management: Line supervision, Manufacturing management, Production planning, Quality assurance
• Materials Management: Purchasing/buying, Traffic management, Inventory management

EMPLOYERS

• Manufacturers
• Industrial organizations
• Service organizations

STRATEGIES

• Develop strong analytical skills and a logical approach to problem solving
• Take additional courses in statistics and computer systems
• This is a more technical side of business. Learn to manage multiple situations and problems. Be able to communicate with different types of people in various functional areas
• Earn an MBA to reach the highest levels of operations management.

SALES

• Industrial Sales
• Consumer Product Sales
• Financial Services Sales
• Services Sales
• Advertising Sales

EMPLOYERS

• Profit and nonprofit organizations
• Product and service organizations
• Manufacturers
• Financial companies
• Insurance companies
• Print and electronic media

STRATEGIES

• Obtain experience through internships or sales jobs
• Must be highly motivated and well organized
• Proven leadership abilities are desirable
• Develop a strong commitment to customer satisfaction.

BANKING

• Commercial Banking
• Retail/Consumer Banking
• Credit Analysis
• Lending
• Trust Services
• Mortgage Loans
• Branch Management
• Operations

EMPLOYERS

• Banks
• Credit unions
• Savings and loan associations
• Financial services institutions
• Federal Reserve banks

STRATEGIES

• Develop a solid background in business including marketing and accounting.
• Get experience through part-time, summer, or internship positions in a bank.
• Develop strong interpersonal and communication skills in order to work well with a diverse clientele.

INSURANCE

• Claims
• Underwriting
• Risk Management
• Sales
• Loss Control

EMPLOYERS

• Insurance firms
• Banks

STRATEGIES

• Complete an internship with an insurance agency
• Talk to professionals in the industry to learn more about claims, underwriting, and risk management
• Many good, entry-level positions exist in these areas
• Initiative and sales ability are necessary to be a successful agent or broker
• Develop strong communication skills as many positions require interaction with others and the ability to explain information clearly and concisely.

REAL ESTATE

• Residential Brokerage
• Commercial Sales
• Appraisals
• Property Management

EMPLOYERS

• Real estate brokers
• Banks
• Appraisal firms
• Apartment and condominium complexes
• Developers

STRATEGIES

• Obtain sales experience through part-time, summer, or internship positions.
• Research the process of becoming a real estate broker through the National Association of Realtors. Develop an entrepreneurial spirit. Research apprenticeships in appraisal.

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Management is a broad business degree that can lead to many career opportunities. Students should clearly define their career goals and seek related experiences to reach those goals.
• Gaining experience through part-time and summer jobs or internships is critical.
• Many desirable skills can be developed through participation in and leadership of student organizations.
• Develop and utilize a personal network of contacts. Once in a position, find a mentor.
• Consider earning an MBA after gaining work experience to reach the highest levels of business management.
• Learn to work well in a team and effectively with a wide variety of people.
• Strong communication skills, including public speaking, are important to achieving success in this field.

 

[The Famous One]

MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS

AREAS

SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

• Analysis
• Design
• Support
• Systems Integration
• Database Administration
• Business Application Development
• Executive Administration

EMPLOYERS

Most areas of business and government: Financial institutions, Insurance companies, Consulting firms, Manufacturers, Computer companies, Telecommunications companies, Retailers, Healthcare organizations, Hotels and restaurants, Entertainment companies, Educational institutions, City, state, and federal government
STRATEGIES

• Develop excellent interpersonal skills for effective communication with technical and non-technical colleagues
• Gain programming experience and knowledge for increased opportunities
• Become an effective problem solver
• Plan to continually educate self on new computer languages and technology
• Obtain business experience through internships or part-time employment
• Supplement program with courses in accounting, human resources, and procurement.

NETWORK TECHNOLOGY

• Intranet Development
• Intranet Administration
• Hardware and Software Design
• Support

EMPLOYERS

Most areas of business and government: Financial institutions, Insurance companies, Manufacturers, Computer companies, Telecommunications companies, Retailers, Healthcare organizations, Hotels and restaurants, Entertainment companies, Educational institutions, City, state, and federal government
STRATEGIES

• Gain work experience in university computer labs
• Develop communication skills and interest in helping others
• Gain knowledge in a variety of computer areas including minor programming, software, and hardware
• Plan to stay abreast of latest technology and software
• Obtain applicable certifications such as Cisco or Microsoft
• Develop relationships with small business owners for part-time or freelance network consulting opportunities
• Supplement program with courses in computer science.

INTERNET

• Programming
• Software Design
• Systems Analysis
• Hardware Production
• Web Site Design
• Web Site Administration

EMPLOYERS

• Network access points
• Internet service providers
• Hardware and software vendors
• Internet-related companies including: Browsers, Search engines, Web site design services
• Organizations with complex, self-manage web sites

STRATEGIES

• Gain experience in web development or maintenance through part-time jobs or internships
• Volunteer to design web sites for student organizations or community groups
• Learn web-related programming languages
• Develop a flare for creativity
• Learn to work effectively in a team by participating in group projects or student organizations
• Earn a graduate degree in technology or business for advanced opportunities in analysis, project management, and executive operations.

NON-TECHNICAL

• Customer Service
• Product Support
• Training
• Technical Writing
• Sales
• Marketing

EMPLOYERS

• Software developers
• Technical service providers

STRATEGIES

Develop excellent verbal and written communication skills. Display interest and ability in customer problem solving. Work in university computer labs. Take technical writing courses to develop skills. Obtain general sales or customer service experience.
EDUCATION/TRAINING

EMPLOYERS

• Proprietary (for profit) schools
• Community colleges
• Universities
• Corporations
• Non-profit organizations

STRATEGIES

• Earn a graduate degree for post-secondary teaching opportunities
• Develop a research specialty
• Gain experience working with students through tutoring or assisting in computer labs
• Obtain advanced certifications for training opportunities.

CONSULTING

EMPLOYERS

• Consulting firms
• Self-employed

STRATEGIES

• Develop exceptional analytical and interpersonal skills for communicating with clients
• Obtain a strong technical knowledge of computers, a background in business management, and experience in systems analysis
• Become familiar with various programming languages and operating systems
• Earn applicable certifications
• Demonstrate ability to self-motivate and work independently.

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Be aware that careers in computers and technology are constantly changing.
• Be prepared to retrain and learn new information on a regular basis.
• Certifications are often an important part of training for technical careers. Obtain the certifications that are the most applicable to career goals and interests.
• Gain as much diverse technical experience as possible. Seek positions in computer labs, retail computer/technology stores, or as technological support for any office or business.
• Learn about technology in additional areas such as audio/visual or telecommunications. Become familiar with the integration and application of these areas to management information systems.
• Develop physical stamina and strength. Many networking professionals are involved in hands-on, physical activity during network installation and maintenance.
• Specialize in a specific area of business or industry such as medical office support or sound technology so as to become familiar with the applicable software and hardware.
• NOTE: A Management Information Systems major is often closely related to other majors such as Computer Information Systems, Information Systems and Information Technology. While each may be slightly different from the others, all are focused on the application of technology in various environments. In contrast, Computer Science focuses on the theory of mathematical foundations required for the development of systems software such as operating systems and language translators.

 

[The Famous One]

MARKETING

AREAS

SALES

• Industrial Sales
• Consumer Product Sales
• Financial Services Sales
• Services Sales
• Advertising Sales

EMPLOYERS

• Profit and nonprofit organizations
• Product and service organizations
• Manufacturers
• Financial companies
• Insurance companies
• Print and electronic media
• Consulting firms

STRATEGIES

• Obtain experience through internships or sales jobs.
• Must be highly motivated and well organized.
• Proven leadership abilities are desirable.
• Develop a strong commitment to customer satisfaction.
• Must work well under pressure and be comfortable in a competitive environment.

CUSTOMER RELATIONS

• Customer Service

EMPLOYERS

• Businesses providing products or services to the public or to other organizations

STRATEGIES

• Obtain part-time or summer experience
• Develop problem solving skills, self-confidence, assertiveness, empathy, and stamina
• Develop strong leadership and public speaking skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required.

PURCHASING/PROCUREMENT

EMPLOYERS

• Government organizations
• Large companies
• Educational institutions
• Hospitals

STRATEGIES

• Obtain excellent written and oral communication skills
• Strong computer skills are necessary
• Supplement program with courses in logistics and purchasing.

RETAIL

• Buying
• Store Management

EMPLOYERS

• Department stores
• Specialty stores
• Discount stores
• Super retailers

STRATEGIES

• Obtain retail experience through summer, part-time, or internship positions.
• Present a consistent, pleasant, and service-oriented image to customers
• Develop leadership ability and customer service skill.
• Demonstrate ability to work well under stressful conditions and as part of a team
• Gain knowledge of the process of merchandise flow, an overview of signing, pricing, and presentation, and the ability to plan, organize, and lead
• Develop ability to communicate in a concise manner
• Be prepared to start as a trainee before advancing to other positions.

BANKING

• Commercial Lending
• Branch Management
• Operations

EMPLOYERS

• Commercial banks
• Credit unions
• Savings and loan associations
• Savings banks

STRATEGIES

• Develop sales skills and good analytical skills
• Take courses in accounting and finance
• Obtain part-time employment or an internship position in a bank.
• Develop strong interpersonal and communication skills in order to work well with a diverse clientele
• MBA required for most positions related to investment banking.

BRAND MANAGEMENT

EMPLOYERS

• Consumer goods
• Some service providers
• Some industrial goods

STRATEGIES

• Results orientation and creativity are desired attributes
• Develop strong interpersonal, communication, and analytical skills
• Obtain a broad background in advertising, research, consumer behavior, and strategy
• Plan on pursuing an MBA for most brand management, consulting, and research opportunities.

MARKET RESEARCH

EMPLOYERS

• Large corporations
• Marketing research firms
• Public institutions concerning health, education, and transportation
• Management consulting firms

STRATEGIES

• Develop good interpersonal skills and effective communication skills, both verbal and written
• Good analytical and problem solving skills are critical
• Preparation in statistics, mathematics, and behavioral science is required
• Plan on obtaining an advanced degree in business or statistics.

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Most entry-level positions for marketing majors reside in sales.
• Many marketing majors seek positions in advertising, public relations, sport management, and entertainment. Such positions are difficult to obtain and require breaking in at the bottom level. Seek internships in these fields even if unpaid.
• Gain as much relevant experience as possible through internships or summer and part-time positions.
• Join the American Marketing Association student chapter and seek leadership roles.
• Develop excellent communication skills and the ability to work well with others.
• Engage in personal networking to increase job possibilities.
• Marketing is good preparation for graduate study in business. An MBA can open greater opportunities, particularly in areas of brand management and market research.

 

[The Famous One]

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[Laibaaa]

Veryy helpful!
Thank you SO much. May God bless you.