Top five Degrees Sought by Employers in 2013
As unemployment numbers have demonstrated over the past several years, the job market has been highly competitive. While times are tough, current employment trends indicate individuals with knowledge and/or skills in certain subject areas could potentially give these candidates the edge as employers look over applications.
A report issued by theNational Association of Colleges and Employers(NACE), has highlighted the top degrees sought by employers in 2013. At this time, business administration, computer sciences, accounting, healthcare and technology are reportedly in high demand. If forecasts are any indicator, applicants holding these types of degrees will continue to be sought out by employers in upcoming years.
• Business Administration
A resourceful degree, business administration graduates can offer their knowledge in a variety of industries. Because of the degree's versatility, grads can work in either the private or public sector, in almost any industry.
AsInvestopediapoints out, individuals holding a Bachelor of Business Administration can work in marketing, business law, ethics, and economics, to name a few options. Other possible job possibilities are human resources, ecommerce and business technology. A business educational track can also lead to potential management opportunities in the future.
• Computer sciences
A computer science degree can go a long way these days. There are some fields, such as forensic and criminal science and computer programming, that are anticipated to be in high demand.
"Due to the growing levels of violent crime in North America, which rose 18% in 2011, this is one field that will stay in demand for quite some time," says Investopedia.
Additionally, as the world continues to go digital at a fast pace, individuals who possess the knowledge of how to create programs and read digital footprints will find job opportunities. TheU.S. Department of Laborforecasts software developer jobs to grow at a much faster than average rate in coming years.
• Accounting
In long-standing demand, the need for accounting knowledge continues to remain strong in 2013. Many employers will be looking to hire applicants with an educational background in accounting. An accounting degree is another versatile educational path that can lead to all sorts of job opportunities, in many different fields.
Additionally, government regulations passed in the last several years have required certain levels of transparency to exist in accounting practices. One example is theSarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002(SOX). Businesses have to ensure they follow this and other legislative measures passed. Individuals graduating with accounting degrees will be up-to-speed on the latest requirements.
Potential jobsin this field are budget analysts, financial analysts, financial managers, and public accountants.
• Healthcare
Healthcare is a field that continues to grow. According to the most recentBureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, many fields under the healthcare umbrella will continue to grow faster than average over the next several years.
Perhaps, most particularly in demand are bachelor degrees that can be used in healthcare administration and information technology. Healthcare administrators are in demand. Additionally, as privacy and security concerns emerge over patient information, individuals skilled in technology and data security can fill many needed roles.
• Technology
Technology know-how is consistently in demand and this isn't going to change anytime soon. As mobile continues to grow at an exponential pace and manual processes continue to be automated and digitized, employers will be looking to hire people who can work with the latest technological devices and have an understanding of how things operate. Positions that will behot in demandinclude network system analysts, database administrators, and information security specialists, to name a few.
Deciding on what degree path to take can be one of the most important decisions in a person's life. After all, it is a huge investment in both time and money. Ideally, you want to pursue a degree that leads to a job you'll enjoy. However, equally important is the ability to find a job that is in demand in your chosen field.
In 2013 the job market is still very competitive and it is employer's choice due to the high number of applicants for each position. Having one of the desired educational degrees can potentially help you land the job.
