For anyone who has pondered long and hard about what they want to be when they “grow up”, it can be very daunting to not only select a career, but to then determine the best degree to support that career choice.
Regardless of how much or how little work experience someone has, the decision to go to college is always a good one. Continuous learning is what keeps us on top of our game and leads us to career success. That being said, selecting the best degree to support a career choice can sometimes be a bit more difficult.
Here are five things that individuals need to consider when deciding which degree to pursue:
Best Career Path
It's a matter of identifying where a person's interest lies and then finding a suitable degree. Guidance counselors, school admissions counselors, or career counselors may be able to help figure out a career where someone’s skills and interests would be best suited. For someone who is already in the workforce, this may mean considering if their current career path is working or if it is time to make a change. In fact, changing careers is a very good reason to go back to school to get a degree.
Market Trends for Careers
Yes, these constantly change and fluctuate; however, it makes sense to look far enough ahead so that the degree received today is still valid tomorrow. According to the U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics the fastest growing occupations are in healthcare, technology, education and the environment. However, that should not limit someone to only selecting a career from one of these segments. The Bureau also supplies general information about a variety of occupations as well as emerging occupations.
How Much Time to Devote to College
Someone who is right out of high school and can attend college full-time might pursue a more rigorous course of study than someone who has a few community college credits under their belt and will be attending part-time. If timing is an issue, consider the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) which allows students an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge in undergraduate college courses through a group of exams. There are 2,900 colleges that grant credit and/or advanced standing for CLEP exams.
What Degree Level?
Along with associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s or PhD degrees, there are also certification courses that can be worthwhile. Remember it is not necessary to receive an associate’s to get a bachelor’s, though taking classes at a community college can help defray the expense of attending a four-year program.
The Best School to Attend
This question depends on whether the individual is going full- or part-time. High school students contemplating what university to attend have a lot more options than older workers who are returning to college. Once again a counselor may be able to help by suggesting an appropriate place of learning. In addition, talking to friends and family or doing a search on the Internet may help.
It’s really all about what the individual is looking for in their career and education, and how these two pieces of the puzzle can come together. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or to explore options. In the end choosing a degree that enhances and compliments someone’s career choice is the ultimate goal.
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