Jacks Of All Trades: Versatile Degrees

Posted on Dec 16th 2009, 07:06 pm, under Career Advice

When it comes to adaptability, admittedly, not all majors are created equal. Some degrees have an advantage over others in the number of fields and positions that demand their particular skill set:

1. Psychology

One of the most popular degrees among college students, psychology can be applied to a diverse array of industries. In addition to your technical training, the critical thinking and scientific approach to problem-solving that psychology teaches will serve you in any career you might choose.

You might apply to any of the following positions: psychologist, teacher, case worker, human resources manager, youth corrections officer, sales representative, public opinion researcher, employment agency counselor, health educator, creative director.

2. Communication

Good communication skills are crucial in almost every modern industry today. When considering new hires, employers consistently rank written and verbal communication skills as the top criteria. Unfortunately, they frequently find most new graduates lacking in precisely these requirements.

As a communication major, this should be your strong suit. Your skill in public speaking and relating with clients and customers will serve you in practically any job you can think of. Good career options include the following: lawyer, bank officer, campaign manager, restaurant manager, actor, hotel manager, events planner, TV news anchor, lobbyist, public information officer, and more.

3. Biology

Biology is one of the most versatile disciplines among the "hard sciences". Aside from their solid analytical skills and scientific training, biology graduates are in demand because of the nature of our most pressing problems today, such as environmental issues and health care.

Career options include: physician, zoologist, biochemist, marine biologist, science writer, ecologist, forensic scientist, teacher, forester, mortician.

4. Business administration

A degree in business gives you widely-applicable skills and opens options for you in almost every field, ranging from health care to information technology. You should put particular emphasis on your transferable skills, such as management and organization, writing, and public speaking.

Possible positions include the following: marketing specialist, loan officer, account executive, human resources manager, labor relations manager, recruiter, financial analyst, communications officer, CEO, real estate broker, and many more.