What Are the Best Degrees and Jobs for College Graduates?

Tom Hanson, Contributing Writer

Updated: 3/19/2010

With jobs evaporating at a record pace, a return to school may be necessary to ensure future career options. But in today's tough economic times, potential students should think carefully about choosing a degree option that will weather the current economic storm.

Technology Careers

Still one of the strongest career options, technology job opportunities continue to grow in number. Technology jobs offer strong growth potential along with solid compensation packages.

Among the many expanding possibilities are:

1. Network and Windows Administration
2. information Systems Management
3. Database Management
4. Desktop Support

Because of the range of responsibilities involved, an associate’s degree can actually be the start to a support position in a smaller company. However, for those considering an administrative or management position, a bachelor's degree in computer science or management information systems (MIS) is generally required.

Graphic Arts

For those looking for opportunities with an artistic or creative component, another field with enormous potential is the world of desktop publishing. Combing traditional design skills with the latest in technological developments, positions in graphic arts offer solid starting pay and exceptional growth potential.

Among the options to consider are:

1. Graphic Design
2. Desktop Publishing
3. Animation/Motion Graphics

A career in the creative media field requires a degree in graphic art, visual art or commercial art. In addition, finding concrete work opportunities to intern and develop hands-on experience can be critical to landing that entry-level position.

Legal Careers

Another rapidly expanding career option centers upon the need for workers in the legal profession. While many equate a legal career with becoming a lawyer, today’s job market offers many other potential options for interested workers.

These include:

1. Office Clerks
2. Legal Receptionists
3. Paralegals

These positions are particularly enticing given their solid pay and growth potential. In addition, many entry level positions require only an associate’s degree.

Those holding a degree with a non-legal concentration could place themselves in the position to compete for one of these options through a supplemental online degree or certificate program.

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