Some areas of the job market are stronger than others for those holding bachelor’s degrees. The following list is made up of the top 10 careers in 2012 for bachelor degree graduates. In addition to having better than average salary outlooks according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), all of the jobs on the list are in growing fields. This means that prospects for future employment are high.
Medical and Health Services Manager
As America’s population ages, the need for full-service health care is expanding. Medical and health services managers, who typically hold degrees in health care management, oversee operations in hospitals, clinics, doctors’ offices and other facilities. By BLS estimates, the median annual salary for those in this career is $84,270, and the need for health care managers is expected to grow by approximately 22% in the next 10 years.
Accountant
Stricter regulation of financial institutions is expected to increase the demand for accountants who can keep track of transactions, prepare financial reports and returns and serve as auditors. The position typically requires a bachelor’s degree in accounting as well as relevant certification. The median yearly salary for accountants is $62,850 according to the BLS, and 16% growth in this field is expected over the next 10 years.
Database Administrator
In a world where data is becoming increasingly valuable, demand for individuals who can organize and present this data is high. These individuals require bachelor’s degrees, usually in computer or information science, as well as computer experience. The BLS reports that the median annual salary for database administrators is $75,190, and demand for Database administrators is expected to grow by 31% in the next 10 years.
Primary School Teacher
With declines in student-teacher ratios and population increases, the demand for primary school teachers is expected to increase by 17% over the next decade. Primary teachers require bachelor’s degrees and state certification in order to teach in public schools. The BLS states that the median yearly salary for primary school teachers is $51,380.
Human Resources Specialist
The demand for people who can match employees to positions and maintain effective employee relations is expected to grow substantially in the next few years. In fact, the BLS predicts that the need for human resources specialists and managers will grow by 22% over the next decade. Much of this projected demand is due to the growth of employment agencies, temporary placement agencies and professional organizations. The median yearly salary of human resources specialists is $52,690.
Registered Nurse
Increasing emphasis on preventative care and an aging population are expected to increase the demand for registered nurses by 26% over the next 10 years. The position requires completing a nursing program and passing a national licensing exam. Many employers, however, require a bachelor’s degree in nursing or give preference to candidates with this type of degree. The BLS reports that the median yearly salary for registered nurses is $64,690.
Financial Analyst
New investment opportunities and increased access to investments are driving demand for financial analysts. The position requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, typically in business, economics, finance, statistics or a related field. The BLS reports the median salary for financial analysts is $74,350 per year, and demand for financial analysts is expected to grow by approximately 23% over the next 10 years.
Public Relations Specialist
Increasing reliance on social media has increased the need for public relations specialists who can navigate the virtual world. A bachelor’s degree in any field and relevant experience are required. The BLS projects a 21% increase in demand for public relations managers and specialists in the next decade, and the median annual salary is $57,550.
Computer Systems Analyst
An increasing dependence on computer systems gives computer systems analysts an excellent employment outlook. In fact, the BLS estimates that demand for these individuals will grow by 22% over the next decade. The job requires a bachelor’s degree, often in computer or information science. The BLS reports that the median salary for computer systems analysts is $77,740 per year.
Dietitian or Nutritionist
With the overall growth of the health care industry and America’s growing obesity epidemic, dietitians and nutritionists are in high demand. The position typically requires a bachelor’s degree with appropriate coursework in nutrition as well as supervised training. Some states also require dietitians to be licensed. Demand for these individuals is expected to grow by 22% over the next 10 years, and the median yearly salary is $53,250.