Careers and Salaries Archives - collegegazette.com https://collegegazette.com/tag/careers-and-salaries/ News, Rankings, and More on Higher Education Tue, 20 Sep 2022 16:29:36 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.1 What Can You Do With a Public Health Degree? Careers & Salaries Revealed https://collegegazette.com/what-can-you-do-with-a-public-health-degree-careers-salaries-revealed/ Fri, 16 Apr 2021 13:48:51 +0000 https://collegegazette.com/?p=2108 If you are asking yourself if you should pursue a degree in public health, consider the many career options available and the impact that they have. You can choose a career devoted to offering workshops on preventative care for low-income households, or you can design and execute experiments that test out a new pharmaceutical in […]

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If you are asking yourself if you should pursue a degree in public health, consider the many career options available and the impact that they have. You can choose a career devoted to offering workshops on preventative care for low-income households, or you can design and execute experiments that test out a new pharmaceutical in a clinical trial. 

Or, you can educate the public about the effects of chemical spills on the environment and on human health. All three paths are devoted to the public’s health and safety, and a public health degree is a stepping stone.

Of course, a meaningful cause is not the only motivating factor for choosing a degree in public health. Job growth and salaries should not be discounted. The good news is that many jobs in the public health field are expected to grow within the next 5 to 10 years. 

The median salary for a bachelor’s in public health is $50,444, with many opportunities for advancement. 

In sum, if you are looking for a meaningful, impactful, and financially rewarding career, a degree in public health is a great place to start. Below is a list of 10 the most common career options for this degree.


Epidemiologist

What can you do with a public health degree?
Public domain photo via Flickr Creative Commons

If you want to be on the forefront of stopping the spread of diseases and viruses, a career in epidemiology is for you. Epidemiologists are the detectives of the health sector. They investigate the causes of diseases and viruses, their spread, and who is most prone to getting them. They also make recommendations to stem the spread of diseases and prevent future outbreaks. Epidemiologists gather and analyze the information necessary for medical research and for developing effective, preventative care.

Typically, epidemiologists are employed by hospitals, colleges and universities, and health departments at local, state, and federal agencies. Most work for government agencies, such as the Center for Disease Control or National Institutes of Health. There are many opportunities for fieldwork, such as conducting interviews and collecting samples to bring back to the lab. 

Most epidemiologists have a master’s degree in public health (MPH), with a specialization in epidemiology. A master’s degree is needed for most entry-level positions in the field. It is not uncommon for some to have completed doctoral work in medicine or epidemiology.

Whether you have a master’s degree or a doctoral degree, your job prospects as an epidemiologist are good overall; the public needs you. In 2020, the median pay for an epidemiologist was $74,560/year.


Healthcare Administrator

Another promising career path for a public health degree is health administration. If you are passionate about equitable access to quality healthcare and resources and have a penchant for leadership, a career as a healthcare administrator might be your calling.

As a healthcare administrator, you help develop and manage healthcare programs and systems that serve the needs of families and communities. Healthcare administrators work for hospitals, hospital networks, or large healthcare systems. Through management and administration, they provide the infrastructure needed to support the work and activities of primary caregivers. 

The work is quite comprehensive; not only do you need to understand the basics of public health, but you will also need to navigate the maze of policies and laws governing hospitals and healthcare administration. This is not an easy feat as laws and policies vary across county, state, and national levels. 

The minutiae of billing, staff schedules, and HR are as important as knowing the demographics of the populations you serve. 

While a bachelor’s degree in public health, or another relevant field, can land you a managerial position in medical and health services, a master’s degree (plus some experience) is required for many advanced positions or promotions. The base salary for a healthcare administrator ranges from $41k-$113/year, depending on a combination of education, experience, and location. The median salary is $69,927.


Health Education Specialist

As a health education specialist, also known as a health educator, you will have the opportunity to combine an interest in public health with an educational mission. In many ways, education is at the heart of public health initiatives and programs. Education specialists, alongside healthcare providers, are the bridge between policymakers, health administrators, and the general public. They convey the information necessary to make initiatives effective in their mission by planning programs, collecting and analyzing community data, and promoting healthy environments, practices, and lifestyles.

Health educators work in various sectors, from hospitals and clinics, schools, governments, to community organizations. With a public health degree, you would be able to lend your expertise in educational initiatives and programs focused on disease prevention and patient care, or community outreach in general. This is just one possible application of public health in health education. 

There is a projected job-growth rate of 11% for health education specialists and an average salary of $54,101/year.


Emergency Management Director

Mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. 

These are the pillars and phases of emergency management in dealing with disasters and emergencies. Going down this route, you will apply your public health degree to areas beyond disease prevention and control. You will be entrusted with the responsibility of devising plans and procedures for responding to disasters and catastrophes.

Emergency management directors work for hospitals, schools, private companies, and, of course, local and state governments. The specifics of the job vary from sector to sector and across industries. Those who work in the private sector provide technical, scientific, and security services, identifying and assessing hazards, damages, and risk in the workplace. They also train employees and staff in emergency responses.

As long as wildfires, floods, tornadoes, and other natural disasters pose a threat to humans, there will be a vital need for emergency management directors in many sectors and all over the country. In fact, the projected job-growth rate for this role is 4% within the next ten years, with directors making an average of $76k/year.


Health and Safety Engineer

This is the first occupation on this list primarily concentrated in the private, science, and technical services. Health and safety engineers serve companies, organizations, and consumers by developing safer work environments and products. Your main objective as a health and safety engineer is to help prevent people from getting injured or sick, whether at work or from using a product or equipment. Your job is also to ensure that a workspace is compliant with health and safety regulations.

In addition to a bachelor’s degree in public health, engineering, or occupational/industrial hygiene, health and safety engineers must possess sharp observational, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Often, you will have to tackle complex and multi-faceted problems that draw on these skills, as well as your ability to think outside the box. Overall, it is one of the most demanding jobs on this list.

Because of advancements in biomedical engineering and software safety engineering, an aspiring health and safety engineer will not be out of job prospects anytime soon. The median annual salary is $91,410. Private science and technology sector salaries typically exceed salaries in government and construction.


Environmental Scientist

A bachelor’s degree in public health will enable you to get an entry-level job in the environmental sciences, which is an excellent choice for someone passionate about Climate Change and other environmental issues. At the core, environmental science is about the protection of human health and environmental health. It dovetails nicely with a degree in public health because of the issues and problems that overlap between the two, specifically those centered on human health and safety in the present and long term.

What do environmental scientists do exactly? Environmental scientists study physical, biological, and chemical conditions of the environment and how these conditions affect the organisms living under the conditions. Deforestation, a chemical spill, or air pollution can harm the health of organisms, including humans. As an environmental scientist, you would study these problems and provide solutions for countering their effects.

In many cases, environmental scientists work to prevent or solve environmental problems or provide guidance to governments, organizations, and companies to limit hazards to the environment and human health. Many environmental scientists work in labs or offices; others conduct fieldwork, collecting and analyzing samples. As an environmental scientist, you are no mere lab rat; the work you do, whether in or outside a lab, serves the public good.

Because of heightened public interest in environmental issues, the future bodes well for a budding environmental scientist. The projected job growth rate exceeds the average for all occupations, at 8% from 2019 to 2029. The average salary is $71,360/year.


Biostatistician

When it comes to public health issues and policies, you want the most accurate and timely data on health, diseases, biology, and medicine. Whether you need to know the effectiveness of a new pharmaceutical or the cause and transmission rate of a disease, data is necessary. This is where the biostatistician comes in. Biostatisticians utilize statistical research tools, applying math and data to the areas of biology and medicine.

Biostatisticians have a central role in public health research, collecting data from experiments, surveys, and questionnaires, which they frequently design and execute. As a biostatistician, you will analyze the data and disseminate your findings to agencies, organizations, and any group involved in public health and health policy.

The majority of entry-level jobs for biostatisticians require a master’s degree. A master’s degree in statistics and a specialization in public health is a winning combination. A biostatistician can expect an average annual salary of $85,742.


Occupational Health and Safety Specialist

Occupational health and safety specialists ensure that employees have a safe work environment. They work in various industries and settings to ensure that workplaces, procedures, and equipment comply with standards and regulations set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). As with most career paths for public health degrees, a career in occupational health and safety is devoted to the well-being of others. And since almost everyone spends most of their day in a workplace setting, this career is an outstanding and impactful choice for someone with a degree in public health.

The day-to-day responsibilities of an occupational health and safety specialist include inspections, investigations of workplace accidents, proactively communicating with employers and management, and developing procedures for improving workplace safety. Tech-savviness, critical thinking, attention to detail, and problem-solving ability are some of the core skills necessary to excel in this job.

An entry-level position in occupational health and safety requires a bachelor’s degree. To boost your chances of landing a great job, getting a master’s degree in public health, with a concentration in occupational health, is an effective strategy. Overall, the job outlook in this field is promising. The reported average salary for occupational health and safety specialists is $76,340.


Community Health Coordinator

The overall job outlook for aspiring community health coordinators is promising. Due to an increasing focus on affordable, preventative care, this career will not disappear any time soon; it is an excellent option for someone interested in public health.

Community health coordinators create and manage health initiatives and programs that address various health issues and improve health outcomes, especially for specific populations. These programs inform local residents about diseases such as asthma, diabetes, obesity, to name a few. Another component of these programs is to encourage and aid residents in adopting preventative measures to improve their health or to help them manage their health conditions.

Like many, if not most, jobs on this list, community health coordinators can work for a wide variety of institutions and agencies, chiefly schools, non-profits, and government agencies.

Most community health coordinators start with a bachelor’s degree in public health, biology, or health education and subsequently earn a master’s degree in public health, epidemiology, or healthcare administration. An entry-level position usually pays around 45k/year.


Public Health Attorney

The careers we have mentioned so far are research-heavy, focused on education, centered on safety, or on administering care. A legal career in public health is another great track for someone interested in public health.

Public health attorneys work as advocates, legal representatives, or advisors for individuals, communities, and government agencies. They contribute to public health by developing policies aimed toward improving wellness and health. At other times, public health attorneys advise businesses, individuals, and governments on their legal rights in public health.

To be an excellent public health attorney, you need to have good organizational and public speaking skills; being able to assemble, organize, and effectively communicate complex information is vital. Strong problem-solving skills are equally important as you will need to identify solutions to complex problems that may arise in a case. Last but not least, a bachelor’s and law degree are required. It is a good idea to choose a law school that offers a specialization in public health law. Even better, some schools offer a dual degree in JD/MPH, which will adequately prepare you for a career in public health law.

The national average salary for a public health attorney is $70,959

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What Can You Do With an English Degree? Careers & Salaries Revealed https://collegegazette.com/what-can-you-do-with-an-english-degree-careers-salaries-revealed/ Fri, 16 Apr 2021 11:50:53 +0000 https://collegegazette.com/?p=2105 Contrary to what some believe, an English degree will not automatically doom anyone to perpetual unemployment or working as a barista. Like all humanities degrees, English degrees equip students with a skill set that will be valuable in any workplace, in a variety of fields and industries. Excellent written and oral communication skills are as […]

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Contrary to what some believe, an English degree will not automatically doom anyone to perpetual unemployment or working as a barista. Like all humanities degrees, English degrees equip students with a skill set that will be valuable in any workplace, in a variety of fields and industries. Excellent written and oral communication skills are as necessary in the design and execution of lab experiments as they are in drafting professional e-mails or delivering speeches. After all, what use is an experiment if the results are not communicated and disseminated clearly and effectively.

Not all English majors aspire to become bestselling authors, and becoming one is not the only ticket to success. English majors can choose to work in many fields, some more writing-focused than others. Writing, speaking, and critical thinking are transferable skills to many areas, including politics, marketing, and public relations.

We would also like to add that an English degree has some serious earning potential. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, graduates with a bachelor’s degree in English earn an average salary of around $50k. Not bad for someone straight out of college!

 Look at our list of some of the most popular and lucrative careers for English majors. 


Journalist

What can you do with an English degree?
Mummelgrummel, Schreiben mit Kugelschreiber, CC BY-SA 3.0

Journalists serve an essential role in society and have been doing so since freedom of the press became an enshrined right. The core function of journalists is to inform the public of important information and news, with the pursuit of truth being a key component of what they do.

Journalism is a dynamic and comprehensive realm of work; it can entail anything from beat reporting, writing about community happenings in the local newspaper, to conducting an in-depth report about the effects of corporations relocating overseas on the local economy. It encompasses politics, entertainment, sports, medicine, and much more.

Someone with an insatiable curiosity about the world, a knack for asking the most incisive questions, and a talent for writing would excel as a journalist. Not to mention, English majors are naturally suited to this profession. They learn to communicate effectively through writing and hone their critical thinking skills by engaging with complex pieces of literature. An English degree can also hone the ability to develop compelling arguments and synthesize bits of information.

Many English departments offer tracks in journalistic writing. But this is not the only option. There are opportunities for getting a start in journalism during or after college, such as freelancing for or interning with news outlets. Some go on to pursue a graduate degree in journalism. 

The salary range for a journalist is typically between $36k-47k/year, with the median being $41,604.


Copywriter

The catchiest jingles and ads are penned by copywriters, some of whom may have English degrees under their belts. This goes to show the versatility of an English degree, which opens many opportunities for someone with a creative itch but who does not aspire to become another New York Times bestselling novelist or a poet. Copywriting is another creative and writing-intensive career option for an English major.

Copywriting, like journalism, is dynamic and varied. Copywriters are responsible for producing engaging and clear texts for various modes of advertising, such as print media, catalogs, and websites. This sounds straightforward, but copywriters need to be very creative and imaginative as they must create content that will attract and retain the desired audience of a company, agency, or client. 

Nowadays, it is not enough for a successful copywriter to be a highly creative and talented writer; copywriters need to understand how search engine optimization (SEO) works to bring traffic to a website and be versed in a variety of content strategy tools. Copywriters also need to stay on top of the latest advertising trends and have a keen interest in commerce and popular culture as well.

Copywriters work in-house, as long-term employees of a specific company or agency or as independent contractors and freelancers, taking on a variety of clients and projects successively or simultaneously. There is no clear-cut path from English degree to copywriting. Undergraduates can intern or dabble in the freelancing world to develop a portfolio before they graduate. It is also helpful to choose one or more areas of focus for writing. Many agencies and clients want copywriters who are well-versed in niche areas, such as cars, technology, etc.

As for salary, a copywriter can make anywhere between $36k-$76k, depending on experience, location, and niche. The median salary for copywriters is $52,821.


Technical Writer

Many employers looking to hire a technical writer prefer someone with a bachelor’s degree in English, communications, or STEM. With that said, English majors bring a lot to a technical writing position, such as writing well, synthesizing information, and communicating effectively. 

Not only are employers eager to hire undergrads with a strong writing background, but the job outlook for technical writers means good news for an English major looking into the field. Due to ubiquitous and rapidly evolving technological and scientific products, the demand for technical writers is predicted to increase over the next decade.

What do technical writers do? Technical writers write instruction manuals, journal articles, and how-to guides for products and equipment, and other documents that communicate complex and technical information in a simple, easy-to-understand manner. For example, a technical writer makes it easy for someone with little to no home-improvement background to set-up and operate a table-saw by writing an instruction manual that is clear and precise.

Technical writers primarily work in the computer, scientific, and technical industries. When job hunting for a technical writing position, it helps to have some knowledge or experience in a specialized area. However, novice technical writers should not feel deterred; the ability to learn new things quickly is an asset and it helps to build a portfolio through freelance or internship opportunities.

The average annual salary for a technical writer is $74,650.


Working for a Publisher 

Whether working for big-name publishers like Penguin Random House, a small literary magazine, or starting up an independent publishing company, the world of publishing is a popular field for English majors. The title “publisher” can apply to an individual, company, or organization. There is a broad range of jobs within the publishing company, such as editing, sales, contract negotiations, marketing, website maintenance, and many more. At most large companies, there are separate divisions or departments that perform these duties. In contrast, an individual running their own independent publishing firm may assume some, if not most, of these responsibilities.

In general, publishers are in the business of overseeing the publishing process for print and/or digital publications. The process entails managing teams of editors, overseeing the production and distribution of content, determining the target audience, managing contracts, and interfacing with content with writers and content creators. This is far from an exhaustive list of what publishers do.

Working as part of an editorial team seems like the most natural fit for English majors. But the utility of an English degree is not limited to this role. The fact is that someone with a background in English can work in any part of the publishing process, including sales, copy, and website maintenance. These jobs require some training or proven experience, depending on the employer.

According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a publisher or someone working in the publishing industry is $67,329.


Copyeditor

Copyeditors have important roles within a publishing company, ensuring that manuscripts comply with formatting and style standards set by the company. But they are certainly not relegated to working for publishers. Copyeditors can be found in a wide array of industries in the public and private sectors. Basically, any company, large and small, that produces print and digital content wants to hire a copyeditor.

Copyeditors are responsible for proofreading text for grammatical and stylistic errors, fact-checking information, and checking and revising a text for style and readability. Occasionally, a copyeditor may oversee the layout of content, which can include advertisements and articles. Not only are the best copyeditors bona-fide grammar nerds, they are also thoroughly familiar with different style guides, such as Associated Press (AP), the industry-standard for news publications.

An English degree is a great start for a career in copyediting. In many cases, a prospective employer may want some experience or a substantial portfolio of work. A good way to begin building a portfolio is by landing freelance gigs or writing for the student-run college newspaper during the undergrad years. Copyediting certification is available to those with little to no prior experience in the field.

The median annual salary for a copyeditor is $58,870.


Editorial Assistant

An editorial assistant assists editors in numerous capacities. They check texts for grammatical errors and stylistic inconsistencies, fact-check information, and serve as a point of contact for writers. Editorial assistants may also help the editor select content for a publication. 

They also work with creative, marketing, and production staff, depending on the company to achieve publishing goals. Overall, this position is an excellent entry point for anyone looking to get into publishing or work their way up to an editorial position or, at the very least, flex those English skills.

English majors develop the necessary skills for excelling in this position, specifically writing and proofreading skills. The ability to do complex research and pitch content ideas are also invaluable skills honed by an English degree. These are the bare minimum skills required of an editorial assistant, which may be adequate for some employers. Some employers may require working knowledge or proficiency in publishing, printing, and graphic design software or advanced knowledge of word-processing and desktop publishing.

The mean salary for an entry-level editorial assistant is $36,620.


Public Relations Specialist

A career in public relations is an excellent fit for English majors interested in communications beyond the written word. People in this field work for a diverse array of organizations, such as schools, hospitals, companies, and non-profits. 

A public relations specialist works to improve an organization’s relationship with the public at large by improving the company’s image and marketability. This is accomplished through written and oral communication in print and media. Public relations specialists produce the content of these communications and develop strategies and plans for a company’s or organization’s public relations campaigns.

Written communications include press releases, speeches, and other kinds of content that will be released to the media and to the general public. PR specialists evaluate advertising and promotion campaigns, as well as public opinions of their clients or the companies they are representing. Furthermore, they reach out to media outlets and agencies that promote the company or organization’s materials. An extroverted English major with a knack for public speaking would undoubtedly thrive in this role.

With an annual median salary of $61,150, PR specialist is one of the highest paying career options for an English degree.


K-12 Teacher

For those interested in reading, literacy, and education, a career in K-12 teaching can be a gratifying career.

English teachers are passionate about reading and writing, and the best ones inculcate their students with the same enthusiasm for these subjects. English teachers help their students develop written and oral communication skills necessary for many careers. 

Of course, English teachers also help their students develop or improve their reading and comprehension skills. They are employed in many different educational settings, but most commonly in public and private schools.

Unlike most careers on this list, the path to becoming an English teacher often requires additional steps beyond a bachelor’s degree. A state-issued teaching license and various certifications are often required for anyone who wants to teach at a public school. 

To obtain a license and a certification, a prospective teacher must take and pass a series of tests. This is an extra step for anyone who has completed a bachelor’s degree in English without previously taking a teaching preparation program. The requirements for teaching at a private or charter school vary from state to state and localities.

The average salary of an English teacher differs across grade levels and states. High school English teachers, for example, can earn anywhere between $34k and $48K.


College Professor

A high school or undergraduate class on Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream can spark a lifelong passion for 17th century English literature and for college-level teaching. College-level teaching is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to explore and share their love for 17th century English literature at higher levels of education. 

An academic career path is ideal for anyone who loves the idea of being paid for researching, reading, and teaching about subjects that inspire them. An English major is not limited to teaching English or literature at a college level. Becoming a college professor in the philosophy or political science departments are viable options.

Colleges or universities employ college professors. Depending on the institution, the position can be either teaching or research-heavy. Typically, small liberal arts colleges place a heavy emphasis on teaching and expect their faculty to devote most of their time to teaching undergraduate courses. Many large universities place a premium on research and expect their faculty to devote much of their time to research and publishing. 

Overall, college professors work as instructors in introductory and advanced-level courses in their fields and produce original research. They can also serve as mentors for undergraduates and serve their institutions in other capacities.

The annual median salary for a college professor can vary widely, depending on whether the position is full-time, part-time. Pay also depends on rank within the department. 

A full-time, tenured college professor in the humanities can earn as much as  $100,353 a year. College-level teaching requires a doctoral degree in the relevant field. In some cases, someone with only a master’s degree can be hired for a teaching position. In graduate programs, those training to become college professors gain teaching experience through teaching assistantships and as instructors of their own courses.


Librarian

Perhaps it is safe to assume that someone pursuing an English degree is a bibliophile, a lover of books and reading. A career as a librarian is ideal for book lovers and anyone passionate about information access, education, and literacy.

Librarians collect, organize, and issue resources, most notably books and other print and digital media. They help patrons and guests locate the information that they need, whether it be materials for a senior thesis project, a book report, or the latest issue of Time Magazine

Librarians may also develop special programs and tutorials for university students or the local community. A librarian can design and present a tutorial on word processing for senior citizens or resume writing for job seekers who have been out of the labor market for some time.

Librarian jobs at academic, public, and special libraries require master’s in library science from an ALA-accredited program. For those aspiring to a high-level administrative position at a university, a doctorate is required. As with public school teaching, a state-issued certification may be required for a job at a public library.

The reported median salary for a librarian is $59,050.


Lawyer 

We cannot restate it enough that solid written and oral communication skills are crucial in any career. This is undoubtedly the case for a career in law. As we have mentioned, English majors are trained to be effective communicators and develop the critical thinking and persuasion skills necessary for becoming successful lawyers. 

In fact, the legal profession is a popular destination among English majors. According to College Consensus, English is one of the top 10 degrees for getting into law school.

We cannot list and adequately describe every specialization in law, as there are so many of them! An aspiring lawyer can choose to get into real estate law, public health, environmental law, or child advocacy. There are many quality law schools throughout the country that offer these specializations and more. 

Here is a list of what students can do with a law degree, including expected salaries.An entry-level lawyer can expect to earn around $60,138 annually.

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What Can You Do With a Criminal Justice Degree? Careers & Salaries Revealed https://collegegazette.com/what-can-you-do-with-a-criminal-justice-degree-careers-salaries-revealed/ Fri, 16 Apr 2021 09:31:59 +0000 https://collegegazette.com/?p=2096 Criminal justice majors study numerous dimensions of the justice system, including the local, state, and federal court systems, law enforcement and policing, and corrections.  The field of criminal justice is interdisciplinary, drawing on not only criminology and criminological theory, but also psychology (to understand the mental and emotional components of criminal behavior), sociology (to understand […]

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Criminal justice majors study numerous dimensions of the justice system, including the local, state, and federal court systems, law enforcement and policing, and corrections. 

The field of criminal justice is interdisciplinary, drawing on not only criminology and criminological theory, but also psychology (to understand the mental and emotional components of criminal behavior), sociology (to understand the sociocultural and community-level drivers of crime), political science (to understand the structure of government and interests of various stakeholders and groups), and history (to understand the development of the current justice system and chart its course into the future), among others. 

The ultimate goal in studying criminal justice is to better understand and help contribute to society’s safe, effective functioning. 

Graduates with a degree in criminal justice can choose to pursue diverse career paths that utilize their expertise in the court system, law enforcement, and corrections process. This expertise can be put to good, and sometimes lucrative, use in domains such as crime prevention, advocacy (for instance, for victims), private investigation work, forensics, and jails/prisons and other correctional/rehabilitation facilities. The common theme among criminal justice-oriented careers is a desire to protect people, enforce the law, give a voice to the voiceless, and stem criminal behavior. 

After obtaining an undergraduate degree in criminal justice, many students immediately begin careers in domains like law enforcement, corrections, or community programs. Others choose to go onto additional schooling; criminal justice majors are a popular foundation for those who intend to go to law school, for instance. The opportunities are wide-ranging and rewarding. 

In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular and interesting careers available to those with a degree in criminal justice, and what salaries new employees can expect. 

Police Officer

Median salary: $67,290

Police officers are not just the protagonists in shows like Chicago P.D. and Brooklyn Nine Nine, they are also key features of everyday communities small and large. 

And contrary to popular stereotypes, police officers don’t spend their afternoons drinking coffee and eating doughnuts at diners. Rather, they work hard to enforce local, state, and federal laws to protect property and people in the community. In the course of a shift, police officers might patrol a certain area to ensure it is safe and abiding by the law, respond to 911 calls, report incidents that arise, issue traffic and parking violation citations, and when necessary, make arrests. 

According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), the median salary of a police officer is $67,290, and as of 2020, demand for law enforcement officers was increasing at a rate higher than the national average. In the future, It is likely that degree programs in criminal justice and police department training programs for officers will incorporate more coursework and training around social justice and de-escalation.


Private Investigator

John Jay College of Criminal Justice
Ajay Suresh, John Jay College of Criminal Justice – New Building, CC BY 2.0

Average salary: $53,320

Private investigators might work in private detective firms, police departments, private companies, or be self-employed. Anyone can hire a private investigator, from an individual citizen, to an attorney, to an entire government agency. 

The bulk of a PI’s job entails fact-finding and gathering information. Sometimes information can be gathered by sleuthing the web, but other times PIs must conduct surveillance, solicit information via interviews, and even go undercover to obtain insights into a case. Importantly, PIs must understand the legal limits as their role, because they are acting as private citizens. Any evidence they collect illegally cannot be used in court.  

PIs conduct background checks, locate and verify information, search for people who have gone missing, investigate potential crimes, look for new evidence or leads in cold cases, and gain access to information that the average person probably could not locate on their own. 

A degree in criminal justice is an excellent foundation for a career as a PI, but equally important is first-hand expertise through apprenticeship. Future/novice PIs typically shadow and learn from a veteran PI. Furthermore, most states require that PIs obtain proper licensing.


Crime Scene Investigator

Average salary: $59,150

Crime Scene Investigators, also called CSIs, forensic science technicians, crime lab analysts, or crime scene specialists, focus on using a variety of specific technologies and techniques to inspect crime scenes. CSIs often collect physical evidence such as hair, fingerprints, footprints, and other tangible traces that might offer clues about the crime.

The average CSI salary is approximately $59,000, but CSIs who work for a government agency can expect to earn much more than that, with top professionals earning close to $100,000 annually. Their qualifications and analyses are well-respected and play a key role in prosecuting the guilty and liberating the wrongly accused.  


Correctional Officer

Average salary: $47,410

Correctional officers work at local, state, and federal jails and prisons, overseeing the day-to-day lives of those who have been arrested, are awaiting trial, or have been sentenced to serve time in prison. 

Working conditions can vary greatly depending on the facility. Newer facilities tend to have high-functioning temperature control, smart design, and adequate space, whereas older facilities are notorious for being cramped, hot, noisy, and sweaty. Facilities also differ according to whether they are owned by the local, state, or federal government, or by a private company. Federal prisons tend to have the best funding. Further, facilities differ based on their level of security; jobs in maximum security prisons tend to involve more conflicts with inmates than do jobs in minimum security prisons. 

Working in a jail or prison is not for the faint of heart, but it can come with some good perks, especially if the correctional officer is a government employee. Professionals in this role who are employed by the government tend to receive excellent healthcare and retirement benefits. 


State Trooper

Average salary: $61,000

State troopers enforce traffic-related safety laws on local and state roads and highways. They patrol roads and highways, issue traffic tickets where appropriate, and arrive at the scene of motor vehicle accidents. In addition, they often complete accident reports and conduct investigations to learn more about the circumstances of an accident, and they may be called upon to testify in court. In some areas, particularly those with a limited police force, state troopers act as back-ups for local law enforcement. 

Different states have different requirements for their troopers, but almost all involve some form of intensive training. State troopers are often the first to arrive on the scene of an accident or other emergency situation, so they need to be skilled at thinking on their toes and remaining calm under pressure. Job prospects are stable, and the career path offers multiple opportunities for promotions and salary increases. In New York State, for instance, the average base salary is about $53,000 during training, $70,000 a year after training, and $85,000 after five years as a state trooper. 


FBI Agent

Average salary: $72,375

A Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agent’s duty is to guard the United States against wrongdoing. Some FBI agents conduct fieldwork, while others are stationed in offices conducting research. The work FBI agents carry out is high-stakes, secretive, and often requires irregular hours and last-minute travel. 

To conduct investigations, FBI agents do everything from interviewing witnesses to working with local police officers to arrest suspects and collecting evidence to be used in significant cases. Because FBI agents deal with such classified, risk-laden work, any prospective agents must undergo a rigorous screening and training process. Agents are typically on call 24/7 and need to be able to enter a potentially dangerous situation at a moment’s notice. Entry-level FBI agents can expect to make around $52,000 as a base salary, while mid-career to senior-level agents earn around $80,000 as a base salary. 


Parole/Probation Officer

Average salary: $55,690

Probation officers monitor convicted criminals who have received probation sentences rather than prison sentences, while parole officers monitor criminals who have been released from prison. Their roles and duties are similar, but the criminals they work with differ in their sentences. 

Probation officers help to equip law offenders on probation with resources and key social services to aid in their rehabilitation and prevent them from committing additional crimes. Probation officers keep in frequent contact with the people they are supervising and establish strong lines of communication not only with the convicted criminal, but also with members of the offender’s family in order to ensure that they are adhering to the terms of their probation and taking steps to rehabilitate. 

Parole officers work with convicted criminals who are released from prison, and help to prevent these offenders from ending up in prison again. Recidivism is a huge issue; a 2019 report indicates that 83% of state prisons were re-arrested within a nine-year period after being released from their sentence. Thus, the need for effective parole officers is very great, especially as cries for prison reform and a greater focus on rehabilitation grow louder. 


Border Control Agent/Customs Inspector

Average salary: $85,850

Border control agents and customs inspectors, who are employees of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), work with the Department of Homeland Security to ensure that none of the people or property entering the United States is of danger to the country. 

Border control agents and customs inspectors are stationed at the country’s land and water borders, forming a protective net around the United States meant to keep contraband items and people who post a potential threat from entering the country. At the same time, they ensure that the borders remain open to legitimate travelers and goods. 

Entry-level border control agents typically make around $66,700 per year. Agents can regularly receive promotions to higher grade levels, which also come with higher salaries. The top border control agents make upwards of $125,000 or more per year and have great benefits and job stability.  


Crime Prevention Specialist

Average salary: $46,900

Unlike police officers, who enforce the law and arrest criminals, crime prevention specialists aim to stop crime before it starts. They serve a dual role in communities, helping to build crime-prevention programs to share with the public and helping to educate people on self-defense and how to protect themselves in the face of crime. 

In order to carry out these duties, crime prevention specialists first assess the community in question and then devise novel ways of delivering programming and knowledge. They might run initiatives such as youth crime prevention programs, crime prevention marketing that speaks to the community in their language, laying out emergency action plans, and workshops on personal safety and self-defense. Their overall goal is to make communities safer and stronger. 

The scope of a crime prevention specialist’s job differs depending on the location and circumstances, so the salary can vary widely.

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What Can You Do With a Social Work Degree? 10 Careers & Salaries Revealed https://collegegazette.com/what-can-you-do-with-a-social-work-degree-careers-salaries-revealed/ Fri, 16 Apr 2021 08:07:28 +0000 https://collegegazette.com/?p=2094 Social work, the study of social welfare systems with the intention to better people’s lives, is a dynamic major that can open the door to a variety of careers. Industries ranging from government and education to healthcare and psychological services all hire social workers to play an integral role in their daily work and larger […]

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Social work, the study of social welfare systems with the intention to better people’s lives, is a dynamic major that can open the door to a variety of careers. Industries ranging from government and education to healthcare and psychological services all hire social workers to play an integral role in their daily work and larger mission. 

The unifying thread among the diverse roles that social work majors can play in the world is their desire to interact with people and help to improve people’s lives. Social workers often assist the most vulnerable members of society – whether children, the elderly, people in poverty, or veterans – by providing them with knowledge, resources, and support to better their lives. For this reason, a social work degree can prepare students for careers that are both emotionally challenging and incredibly fulfilling; social workers can leave their job at night knowing they have done something to make the world a better place. 

Everyone encounters difficult circumstances at some point in their life. Social workers help people to overcome those difficult circumstances and emerge from challenges such as unemployment, addiction, disability, abuse, mental illness, trauma, and poverty with a sense of hope and a concrete plan for moving forward. 

In this article, we’ll walk through some of the most common and most interesting potential career paths for social work majors, with a focus on what makes the job unique and what salary an entry-level employee can expect. As this list will show, the opportunities for students with a social work degree are nearly limitless, and they continue to grow.  

Before we dive into the list, here’s one caveat: many social work-related jobs require a Master’s degree in Social Work. So, students who are serious about pursuing a career connected to social work may want to think about eventually going to graduate school. Salaries are generally higher for jobs that require a graduate degree in Social Work. 


Child and Family Social Worker

University of Houston Social Work Building
BrianReading, UH Social Work building, CC BY-SA 3.0

Median salary: $47,390

Child and family social workers offer support, education, and resources to children as well as their parents and guardians. A social worker in this domain may work with families that have experienced trauma, families in serious health issues, and families in which abuse has taken place. Social workers help parents and guardians locate the support and resources needed to keep children living in the home. Sometimes, however, it is in the children’s best interest to be moved to a different home. In such a case, the social worker assists with the placement process. 

Social workers in this field also work closely with children who have experienced personal traumas, loss (such as the loss of a parent or sibling), or abuse by someone outside of their family. Child and Family Social Workers can be based in a variety of settings; some work in schools, others work for government organizations, and still others work for adoption agencies, foster care services, or other social support systems. Their focus is on ensuring children are well cared for and have their basic physical and emotional needs met. 


Substance Abuse & Recovery Treatment Counselor

Median salary: $42,170

Substance abuse & recovery treatment counselors are trained to support, educate, and coach people through the long road to sobriety and addiction recovery. Social workers who specialize in substance abuse and recovery counseling can provide recovering substance abusers with professional tools, support systems, and strategies to overcome addiction. 

Social workers in this field usually work with a team of professionals, including medical doctors and psychologists/psychiatrists, in order to best coordinate the patient’s care. A social worker gets to know a patient through one-on-one conversations about their life and history of substance abuse, and then together the social worker and patient devise a treatment plan suited to the patient’s unique needs. 

Such a plan can include anything from additional counseling to in-patient treatment. Because a patient’s needs can change over time, a social worker usually maintains sustained contact with patients and revises their treatment plans as needed. 

Substance abuse & recovery treatment counselors work in a range of different settings, including hospitals, psychiatric hospitals, community health centers, recovery treatment centers, and mental health clinics.  


Healthcare Social Worker

Average salary: $56,750

Patients battling chronic disease, acute medical crises, and/or terminal illness need more than medication and medical treatment; they also need the support, education, resources, and emotional resilience healthcare social workers can provide. These types of social workers help clients with chronic, acute, and/or terminal diseases access proper treatment, utilize all the healthcare funding options at their disposal, and resolve any serious issues that arise in the course of treatment. Healthcare social workers are advocates for their clients’ well-being, treatment, and physical and emotional needs. 

Healthcare social workers play a key role in supporting patients and families who may be blindsided by a diagnosis and do not know what to do next. In such cases, healthcare social workers can point patients and families in the direction of community health programs as well as social services such as public housing, public legal aid, education, job readiness and opportunities, and financial assistance. 

At times of serious illness or disease, patients and their families are often especially vulnerable. Healthcare social workers provide a reassuring sense of knowledge, calm, support, and consistency, seeing the patient and their family through the full course of treatment. 


Prison Social Worker

Average salary: $59,000

Prison social workers, also called correctional social workers, are rigorously trained mental health professionals who work within the criminal justice system to minimize rates of recidivism. By helping inmates address underlying psycho-social issues, develop coping mechanisms, and access social support systems outside of prison, social workers help inmates reintegrate into society to better themselves and the community.

However, these kinds of social workers do not always work in typical prison or correctional facility environments; they can also branch out into areas such as abuse crisis centers, police departments, juvenile detention centers, local, state, and federal court systems, and other settings that are correctional in nature.  

Prison social workers focus primarily on rehabilitation; their goal is to help people optimize their mental health, work through difficult emotional experiences, teach life skills, and prepare inmates for meaningful lives beyond bars. Coupled with clinical, social worker-to-patient work, prison social workers must also complete extensive administrative records, detailed files, and coordination with other professionals. 


Case Manager, Social Services 

Average salary: $39,790

Case managers in social services are responsible for coordinating clients’ care. They collaborate with multiple agencies and institutions to get all patients the optimal care for them. Whereas a social services social worker typically provides extensive therapy to clients, case managers tend to deal primarily with the coordination of care and act as liaisons between the different professionals and agencies involved in a client’s care. That said, case managers do sometimes provide limited counseling to clients. 

Case managers can find positions in diverse industries such as schools, hospitals, government agencies, NPOs, and more. Like social workers, their skills are key to the successful functioning of many different domains. 


Patient Care Coordinator 

Average salary: $39,690

A patient care coordinator, also called a care coordinator, is a health professional who facilitates a patient’s care in need of extra support, such as an elderly or disabled patient. A patient care coordinator’s duties include overseeing and coordinating patient treatment plans, helping patients understand their condition, setting patients up with different health care providers as needed, and monitoring patients’ progress through treatment.

In a typical day, a patient care coordinator might meet with patients and their family members to review the patient’s health status and treatment, spend time sharing information with patients about their condition and medicine guidelines, document patients’ progress, and collaborate with patients’ other health care providers. 

Additionally, they may help patients make appointments with specialist medical professionals, assist patients’ care teams in determining the efficacy of treatment interventions, assist as needed with garnering funds for medical treatments, and complete regular training to ensure they stay at the cutting edge of the field. 

Medical care for a patient in need of extra support can be complicated and time-consuming, so patient care coordinators play a vital role in educating, advocating for, supporting, and monitoring the health care plan for patients and on behalf of their families and loved ones. With America’s aging population, and given the prominence of chronic disease among the population, patient care coordinator jobs are likely to be in high demand now and into the future. 


School Social Worker

Median salary: $47,390

School social workers specialize in assisting with concerns about mental health, behavior, academic performance, classroom management, and community-level issues in school settings. As trained mental health professionals, school social workers provide support, resources, and interventions for students in consultation with teachers, parents and guardians, and school administrators. The purpose of a school social worker is to ensure that the school is a safe, positive environment where children can learn and grow. School social workers play an especially important role in coordinating the collaboration between a student’s home, school, and wider community. 

When working at a school, a social worker might be involved in anything from participating in educational planning meetings for individual students, writing a developmental history on a child with a disability, providing group, individual, and/or family counseling, intervening in a crisis involving a student, and assisting with a student’s ability to navigate emotions like anger. 

Many school districts have social workers that rotate to different schools in the district rather than being based exclusively at one school. This can be an exciting opportunity for social workers to encounter an especially diverse range of students, families, teachers, and administrators. 


School Guidance and Career Counselors

Median salary: $42,350

Closely related to school social workers are school guidance and career counselors, who also work directly with students to ensure every child’s optimal growth and development. Whereas school social workers tend to work primarily with at-risk students, such as those who have experienced trauma, have disabilities, live in poverty, or have tumultuous home environments, guidance and career counselors work with all students in the school. 

School guidance and career counselors are responsible for developing counseling programs accessible to all students in individual and group settings. Sometimes these counselors help students build resilience or create a study plan for a challenging course. Other times, these counselors help students think through the different options for their future, college, military, career, and so on. 

While school social workers spend a lot of time assessing students in need and creating customized support plans for students, such as IEPs (Individualized Education Plan), school guidance and career counselors spend their time conferencing with students, coaching them through the college admissions process, and helping them to identify and work with their strengths and areas in need of growth. School guidance and career counselors collaborate as necessary with other school personnel, including school social workers. 


Human Resources Coordinator

Median salary: $58,560

Although a career as a human resources coordinator is not typically the first job that comes to mind for a student with a degree in Social Work, many of the skills and concepts students hone while studying Social Work transfer easily to HR. 

As the name suggests, a human resources coordinator coordinates all central HR duties and programs, including concerns or issues employees raise related to the company, work environment, or general employment, as well as policies around salary and benefits, union and other labor negotiations, and employee relations. 

HR coordinators work in close contact with other HR personnel, such as the HR director, hiring managers, and third-party recruiters. Although companies are not legally required to have an HR department, most medium and large companies do, so this is a field that tends to have solid employment prospects across a full range of industries. 

HR personnel ensure that the work environment runs smoothly and that employees feel safe, supported, and confident in their work.  


Public Policy Analyst

Median salary: $58,560

Some graduates with a degree in social work elect to pursue a role that is less about day-to-day interactions with people in need and more focused on evaluating and improving macro-level social services and strategies. For students interested in enacting change on a broader social scale, a career as a policy analyst could be a good fit and a meaningful vocation. 

Non-profit organizations and government agencies hire public policy analysts/social workers to help bring about macro-level social change. Public policy analysts take stock of existing social systems, evaluate their efficacy, and, where appropriate, suggest ways to improve upon or overhaul those systems to make them function more smoothly and create a greater positive impact. 

Public policy analysts might, for instance, work with a local government planning board to develop new public housing units or zoning laws to support economically disenfranchised city residents. They might also initiate and oversee large-scale public works projects that benefit both people in need and the community as a whole. 

In some cases, public policy analysts may also play a hand in formulating new legislation designed to serve the public good, especially the needs of marginalized or at-risk groups. Finally, public policy analysts might conduct training programs for places like local community centers or conduct educational outreach efforts to communities in need. 

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What Can You Do With a Nutrition Degree? 10 Careers & Salaries Revealed https://collegegazette.com/what-can-you-do-with-a-nutrition-degree-careers-salaries-revealed/ Fri, 16 Apr 2021 07:38:10 +0000 https://collegegazette.com/?p=2092 Most people know that eating the right amount of the right food is a key element of overall health, weight management, disease prevention, and longevity. However, many people struggle to wade on their own through the vast amount of (often conflicting) nutrition information available, and others have all the knowledge they need but fail to […]

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Most people know that eating the right amount of the right food is a key element of overall health, weight management, disease prevention, and longevity. However, many people struggle to wade on their own through the vast amount of (often conflicting) nutrition information available, and others have all the knowledge they need but fail to make substantial changes to their food-related behavior. 

People also find themselves in life circumstances, such as being diagnosed with a food allergy or chronic inflammatory disease, that requires them to change the way they are used to eating drastically. These are just some of the many reasons people look to professionals with a nutrition degree to help them optimize their food, health, and life. 

Nutrition is a complex science, and studying nutrition in college entails extensive coursework in chemistry, biology, physiology, human metabolic processes, and so on. Nutrition professionals do much more than tell clients to eat more fruits and vegetables; they assess each individual’s unique needs and view nutrition as one component of the holistic picture that is human health. 

We live in an era of great interest in and knowledge of health, wellness, nutrition, exercise, non-toxic lifestyles, and the interconnection between what we put into our bodies and how we feel. However, we are also bombarded with more food choices – some healthy, some junk, others somewhere in between – than ever before in human history. Therefore, this is a prime time to pursue a degree in nutrition, which opens doors to a remarkably diverse array of potential career paths. 

In this article, we will explore some of the most common, as well as some of the most unique, career options for graduates with a degree in nutrition. 


Nutritionist

Average salary: $63,900 

What Can You Do With a Nutrition Degree?
liz west from Boxborough, MA, Food basket, CC BY 2.0

The most straightforward and customizable career path for those with a degree in nutrition is to become a nutritionist. Broadly speaking, nutritionists are health professionals who specialize in using food and nutrition to help people optimize their health and prevent or minimize the impacts of disease. 

Nutritionists offer their patients guidance, sometimes in the form of detailed meal plans, about what foods to eat in what quantities and what foods to avoid. Using evidence-based research, nutritionists counsel their patients on selecting, preparing, and learning to love healthy, nutrient-dense foods.

Nutritionists work in a wide range of settings: schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and private practice, to name a few. They can often choose to specialize in a particular area of nutrition, for instance, sports nutrition, eating disorder nutrition, pediatric nutrition, and public health/community nutrition, among others. 

Some nutritionists work with a large team of professionals in public settings such as schools and hospitals, while others work independently in solo practice. The career lends itself to many different settings and work arrangements, and can really be customized to suit the strengths and interests of the nutritionist and the patients’ needs. 


Registered Dietician (RD)

Average salary: $53,495

A Registered Dietician (RD) is in many ways similar to a nutritionist, except that an RD must undergo a certification process, whereas anyone can use the “nutritionist” label. Specifically, in order to obtain RD certification and the legal right to call oneself an RD, a person must hold a bachelor’s degree with a set of courses that have been approved by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics, complete at least 1,200 hours of supervised apprenticeship at an accredited facility, and pass a national Registration Examination for Dietitians administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration. 

Once a person has completed all the necessary steps to become an RD, they, like nutritionists, can work in a wide range of domains, including but not limited to schools, businesses, healthcare facilities such as hospitals and nursing homes, and the food and beverage industry. The exact job description of an RD will differ depending on where they work, but in general, RDs counsel patients on food and nutrition. That might mean creating meal plans, disseminating knowledge, getting to the root cause of health issues, performing community outreach, and/or conducting research to build new knowledge and understandings. 


Food Safety Auditor

Average salary: $69,370

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, food safety auditors are a subcategory of the Occupational Health and Safety Specialists group. Food safety auditors tend to be well paid, especially those with years of experience under their belt; ZipRecruiter notes that the highest-paid food safety auditors earn upwards of $140,500 per year. Many food safety auditors spend much of the year traveling for work, so a great deal of their living expenses are paid for by the company.

Thanks to the 2016 Food Safety Modernization Act, food safety auditors will likely continue to be in high demand. In the wake of this Act, many more facilities were required to carry out food safety audits than had previously been the case, and demand for this specialized work continues to this day. 

The goal of food safety auditing is to confirm that facilities comply with the most current guidelines set by the FDA for that particular industry. Food safety auditors might audit manufacturing plants, farms, restaurants, food packaging plants, and any other environment in which food is prepared for public consumption. After completing an audit, food safety auditors must fill out extensive documentation on their findings, demanding meticulous attention to detail. However, while food safety auditors often visit sites in person, much of their work also involves auditing daily reports from facilities. 


Health Coach

Average salary: $45,538

Health coaches tend to take a broad, holistic view of health; they counsel clients not only on diet and nutrition, but also on lifestyle, exercise, mental health, relationships, and other domains that impact a person’s overall well-being. It is important to note that anyone can call themselves a health coach, because there is no national accreditation service for this profession. Thus, a degree in nutrition is not a prerequisite to becoming a health coach, but it nonetheless provides a strong foundation in food and nutrition science. A degree can enhance the credibility of a health coach. 

Like sports coaches, health coaches seek to challenge and motivate their clients, track progress, celebrate successes, and hold clients accountable to their goals. Whereas a nutritionist or registered dietician tends to be more analogous to a clinician who sees patients once every week or two for a set appointment, health coaches typically play a more active role in clients’ lives, communicating regularly via text, email, or phone. Clients seeking specific guidance on how to eat for a specific medical condition or how to lose a set amount of weight might seek the help of a registered dietician, whereas people who want to look and feel better in all dimensions of their lives might be drawn to working with a health coach. 


Nutrition Educator

Average salary: $46,080

Nutrition educators are responsible for designing and delivering courses, seminars, presentations, and interactive events to disseminate knowledge about nutrition and healthy eating. Occasionally, if a nutrition educator is also a registered dietician, they might also counsel clients and perform diet- and nutrition-related assessments. 

A large part of a nutrition educator’s job involves researching current trends and best practices in nutrition and dietetics, and then coming up with straightforward, approachable, engaging ways to convey that information and insights to different audiences. Nutrition educators are in essence teachers who specialize in nutrition. Thus, people considering this career should be comfortable leading workshops, seminars, courses, and one-on-one meetings online and in person.

For people who are skilled at research, garnering input from industry professionals such as doctors and nutritionists, and packaging that information into actionable insights for specific audiences, a career as a nutrition educator might be a good fit and a meaningful way to share potentially life-changing information with others.


Blogger/Content Creator

Average salary: $32,000+

The internet and social media have given birth to (and continue to give rise to) unique careers that could not exist without modern technology tools and platforms. Blogging is one such internet-based career. Health and wellness are among the most popular and potentially lucrative blogging niches, but the space is crowded and the competition is fierce. 

To stand out, a blogger (or a “micro-blogger” on Instagram, or a video content creator on a platform like TikTok) should choose a relatively narrow target audience, rather than trying to appeal to everyone. For instance, a recent nutrition graduate might create nutrition content for undergraduate men on a college meal plan. Another nutrition graduate might focus on creating nutrition content for teenage and young adult women who are preparing for long-distance running competitions. Being specific is an asset as a health food blogger.

Content creators tend to have flexible, self-directed work schedules and the ability to work remotely from anywhere with an internet connection. However, the trade-off to this freedom and flexibility is that it can take time to build a following, and income is not guaranteed. It can take years before a blog or Instagram account begins making money. For this reason, it is probably best to initially treat blogging or content-creating as a side-hustle rather than the primary source of income. 


Food Scientist

Average salary: $66,400

Food scientists study the microbiology and chemistry of foods to understand how they deteriorate in different environmental conditions (for instance, in the refrigerator vs. in a paper bag on the counter) and how they are processed. They also analyze the nutritional content of food to accurately determine its nutrient levels and supply the information needed for food nutrition labels. 

Additionally, food scientists explore the natural world in search of new food sources and help to devise ways to ensure that processed foods have great flavor, nutritional profiles, are free of toxins, and are health-supporting rather than health-diminishing. They also find ways to enhance the production of processed foods. 

Most food scientists work for the federal government, universities/research centers, or privately-owned companies. They wear multiple hats in the course of their work lives, remaining abreast of current regulations and ensuring food is safe, tasty, and nutritious. They might also work to improve the flavor, color, texture, nutritional value, and/or chemical composition of food. Nutrition degree graduates who are thinking of a career in food science should keep in mind that the working conditions often involve unconventional environments, such as very cold temperatures (for storing and preserving food) and proximity to animal products. 


New Food Product Developer

Average salary: $62,000

New product food developers combine a range of different skills, from the science background of a nutrition major to the “finger on the pulse” ethos of a trend-spotter and trend-setter. 

In order to develop a successful new food product, a developer needs to understand not only the chemistry and nutrition of food, but also the realities of the consumer market. Ideally, a new food product developer wants to be at the forefront of what will become a major food trend. Some examples of successful new food products developed over the past decade are iced coffee, Icelandic skyr yogurt, “superfoods” like chia seeds and acai, and coconut water. 

Successful food developers know how to combine the science of food with the instincts of an entrepreneur on the lookout for market vacancies and unfulfilled consumer needs. New food product developers frequently test new products and document the results of product trials. They may also play a role in the marketing and branding of a product. 


Corporate Wellness Consultant

Average salary: $72,900

Nowadays, many corporations offer wellness programs and health initiatives to employees; if employees are healthy and at peace, their productivity and quality of work increase, which is ultimately good for the company. Thus, corporate wellness initiatives serve the interests of both the employees and the employer. As part of their wellness programs, corporations often employ a corporate wellness consultant/corporate wellness coordinator to oversee the implementation of the initiative and to augment and improve it over time. 

Corporate wellness programs often struggle to get employees to participate, so a designated wellness consultant can boost engagement and tailor the program to employees’ needs and interests. Corporate wellness consultants are also instrumental in evaluating the efficacy of existing programs and helping companies devise strategies to minimize employee healthcare expenditures, which are on the rise due to the number of Americans with chronic health conditions. 

Careers in corporate wellness are likely to become even more in-demand in the coming years, especially since interest in health and wellness among the general population continues to increase and companies continue to recognize the value of investing in programs that keep employees healthy. 


Public Health Nutritionist

Average salary: $53,000

Unlike clinical nutritionists, who work one-on-one with clients, public health nutritionists aim to improve health and nutritional habits at the community level. Public health nutritionists are typically registered dieticians who choose to focus their attention on implementing practices to enhance the health and nutritional status of a population. 

In order to do so, public health nutritionists must be skilled at identifying gaps and problem areas in a community’s nutrition level and coming up with unique and practical strategies to address those issues and ultimately improve nutrition. Because public health nutritionists work at the community/population level, they may be called upon to offer educational resources to the community and develop programs to share with the public in hopes of improving the population’s nutritional status. 

When devising a plan of action, public health nutritionists need to consider the resources, culture, and receptivity of a population to shifts in nutrition practices. These professionals may need to develop innovative ways of reaching people that would greatly benefit from improved nutrition practices but are hesitant to give them a try. 

Public health nutritionists can find work in a variety of domains; they might work for a government program such as WIC/food stamps, or in schools or nursing homes to ensure that children and the elderly receive meals suited to their nutritional needs. They take the best knowledge and practices of nutrition and apply them not just to individual patients, but to entire communities.

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What Can You Do With an Engineering Degree? 12 Careers & Salaries Revealed https://collegegazette.com/what-can-you-do-with-an-engineering-degree-careers-salaries-revealed/ Fri, 09 Apr 2021 19:36:15 +0000 https://collegegazette.com/?p=2059 Students who study engineering gain valuable technical skills allowing them to work in nearly any sector of their choosing. Industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and technology all require engineering to function in today’s society. Engineers learn how to work cross-functionally and solve problems. These critical thinking and collaborative abilities are valuable across all fields and […]

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Students who study engineering gain valuable technical skills allowing them to work in nearly any sector of their choosing. Industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and technology all require engineering to function in today’s society. Engineers learn how to work cross-functionally and solve problems. These critical thinking and collaborative abilities are valuable across all fields and explain today’s high demand for engineering graduates.

Engineering students have a wide selection of specialized degrees to choose from, including chemical, civil, mechanical, electrical, and biological engineering. While job opportunities are often linked to the degree type, all engineers learn skills that are easily transferable to other disciplines. An engineering degree can even be used to work in fields outside of engineering such as business, finance, and law.

Engineers are free to work on projects that they are passionate about and use their critical thinking, analytical abilities, and fundamental technical knowledge to solve problems that affect their communities. Engineering coursework has a reputation for challenging students, but it’s worth it for a degree that opens up a wide range of possibilities.

Whether students are interested in working with rockets, human cells, or complicated machinery, there is an engineering career that fits their passion. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, engineers have a median annual wage of $81,000 and a projected growth of 75,000 new jobs over the next decade. Read on to discover possible careers in engineering, as well as their respective salaries.


Aeronautical Engineer

Engineers at work
Public domain photo via Wikimedia Commons

Aeronautical engineers make flight possible by developing improved aircraft systems that fly faster than ever. While some focus on creating new airplanes, other aeronautical engineers optimize engines, navigation boards, and propulsion systems. Another responsibility is to develop and test prototypes to ensure that they work according to design. New aircraft systems must align with engineering principles, customer specifications, and official regulations.

Along with designing and prototyping new aircraft systems, aeronautical engineers research different construction materials to see how they perform in different environments. They may also be involved in research and development behind spacecraft, satellites, or missiles beyond the atmosphere.

Most workers in the field come from an aerospace or mechanical engineering background. By getting their degree, aerospace engineers understand scientific principles such as physics, thermodynamics, mechanics, and aerodynamics. A strong understanding of computer software is helpful in designing successful aeronautical systems. Due to their expertise, aeronautical engineers make an average annual salary of $116,500.


Agricultural Engineer

Agricultural engineers tackle problems to help farm operations run more smoothly, from machinery to buildings to the crops and animals. Through the development of new technologies, they help to improve efficiency in today’s agriculture processes. Projects focus on changing environmental factors such as airflow, pollution, and water quality.

These engineers work indoors and outdoors, often traveling to various agricultural sites to ensure that all of the equipment is working properly. They also work in labs to research and develop new technologies. For example, some of today’s agricultural engineers are studying new uses for agricultural waste. Others utilize sensors and intelligent technology to maximize crop harvest.

Agricultural engineers typically hold bioengineering or agricultural engineering degrees, although other engineering fields have many transferable skills. Hands-on science, math, and engineering knowledge that is provided by an engineering course load helps prepare them for their future career. Analytical and problem-solving skills are essential for tackling the most significant problems in agriculture today. Agricultural engineers earn a median salary of $80,700.


Biomedical Engineer

If graduates are interested in making a difference in a patient’s life, then biomedical engineering is an ideal future career. Biomedical engineers combine engineering principles with sciences to solve medical problems. They affect the care that people receive from doctors and hospitals by designing new devices, drugs, and other products. Biomedical engineers also create machines that can diagnose medical problems safely and effectively. 

Biomedical engineers work for a variety of employers in manufacturing, research, or development to help advance medical technology and improve human health. In the lab, these engineers are studying how to make new ideas such as artificial internal organs and body part replacements come to life. They are constantly working to improve and redesign existing devices to be better and better.

The field of biomedical engineering is genuinely interdisciplinary. Members come from a wide range of backgrounds, including chemical, mechanical, and biological engineering. Biomedical engineers that studied chemical engineering use their knowledge of process design to manipulate cells to replicate biological processes. Mechanical engineering graduates can use their prototyping and mechanics knowledge to build new artificial body parts. These students use their engineering background combined with biological sciences to create and develop new medical technologies. Biomedical engineers from a wide range of degrees make a median salary of $91,000.


Chemical Engineer

Chemical engineers are also known as “universal engineers” because their broad background and transferable skills apply to a wide variety of industries. They use chemical, biological, physics, and math principles to improve significantly any process. Chemical engineers work to produce chemicals, fuel, drugs, food, and other products that are used in daily life.

These engineers typically work in research and development in laboratories or at industrial plants to monitor manufacturing systems. As an interdisciplinary field, chemical engineers are instrumental in creating many new products, from pharmaceuticals to computer parts. They are also responsible for making sure that all processes are compliant with safety and environmental regulations. 

Chemical engineers require strong analytical, creativity, and communication skills that typically come with a degree in chemical engineering. Through coursework and hands-on experience, graduates learn how to design processes and equipment for efficient manufacturing. Due to their flexibility and specialization in specific processes, chemical engineers make a respectable annual salary of $109,000.


Civil Engineer

The work of civil engineers shows up throughout their communities. They are responsible for designing and building infrastructures such as roads, buildings, airports, tunnels, and bridges. Water and sewage treatment plants and transportation systems also rely on the planning expertise of civil engineers. This profession is exciting for many engineering graduates because they can see the results of their work whether it’s a new bridge or building.

Civil engineers ensure safe work practices are followed. For any project, they must consider best construction practices, government sanctions, and environmental regulations. They typically work in offices to design new projects and create proposals or at outdoor construction sites as needed to oversee the process.

Civil engineers need to have a strong understanding of design fundamentals as well as good math and problem-solving skills. As the population continues to grow, civil engineers are required to ensure infrastructure and utilities can keep up. Because of the essential role they play in society, civil engineers earn a median salary of $87,000.


Electrical Engineer

As one of the newer branches of engineering, electrical engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and testing electrical equipment from motors to power generators. They constantly create innovative ways to use electrical power to make daily life easier. This includes navigation systems for vehicles, communication devices, and computer hardware. 

Electrical engineers rely on baseline engineering knowledge and design software to simulate how electrical devices will function. This profession is hands-on and workers use a variety of tools including voltmeters, top end analyzers, and manufacturing software. Electrical engineers can work in engineering services, power companies, or in researching new technologies.

These engineers need strong math skills and analytical thinking to develop and manufacture new electrical devices. Most electrical engineers graduate with a degree in electrical engineering, where they study topics from digital systems design to circuit theory. Because of their specialized knowledge, electrical engineers earn a median salary of $101,000.


Engineering Manager

As a broad leadership profession, engineering managers direct and coordinate department activities in various engineering companies. They are responsible for planning out new projects in research and development that align with company needs. Managers must take into account the equipment and staffing needs. Engineering managers use their technical knowledge to ensure that the proper methods are being used and that results are well-supported.

Along with a strong engineering background, managers need other skills to propose budgets, supervise staff, and coordinate team members. They work with other managers across departments, including finance, production, marketing, and outside contractors. Engineering managers are responsible for understanding the broader picture of a project and directing their team to effectively complete more specific goals. 

Engineering managers come from a wide variety of engineering specialty degrees. Additional leadership skills through a management-specific degree or business courses can support a career in engineering management. Due to strong organizational, communication, and detail-oriented abilities, engineering managers earn a median salary of $145,000.


Environmental Engineer

Engineers who want to use engineering and scientific engineering principles to help save the planet should consider environmental engineering. They focus on solutions surrounding environmental issues such as recycling, waste disposal, pollution, drinking water, climate change, and sustainability.

In the laboratory, environmental engineers design projects that help reclaim water or control air pollution. They can also go onsite to various sites for environmental projects to quality check, provide technical support, and ensure smooth operation. Environmental engineers also develop investigation reports by inspecting facilities to ensure they are following environmental regulations. Along with seeking solutions to keep Earth’s air, land, and water healthy, environmental engineers help the government develop appropriate regulations.

Workers in this profession collaborate with many other groups, including environmental scientists, hazardous-waste technicians, and specialists in law and business, to best protect the environment. Environmental engineers come from many disciples, including environmental, civil, and chemical engineering.

The median salary for an environmental engineer is $89,000.


Industrial Engineer

Industrial engineers streamline production processes that successfully combine workers, machines, and materials. They understand all aspects of the methods and activities throughout manufacturing to deliver services efficiently. Industrial engineers are also responsible for performing quality control checks to make sure the process is running smoothly. If any problems arise, they resolve them quickly and efficiently.

Industrial engineers are needed in many fields, from manufacturing to healthcare to business. They are well-regarded for their ability to control costs while maximizing efficiencies. They must be organized and detail-oriented to balance a variety of factors such as efficiency, costs, time, technology, and safety. Industrial engineers also must communicate with clients, management, and outside vendors to provide status updates on a project.

While industrial engineers typically study industrial engineering, mechanical and electrical engineers can also find success in the field. Workers utilize critical thinking, ingenuity, and communication skills that are provided by most engineering degrees. Industrial engineers in the US earn a median salary of $88,000.


Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical engineers are behind many of the devices that society uses in everyday life. As one of the broadest engineering fields, mechanical engineers create products ranging from medical devices to batteries. They fully immerse themselves in the design process from initial conception to final manufacturing. Mechanical engineers design and test prototypes of their designs and make changes as needed.

Along with their thermal and mechanical knowledge, mechanical engineers use analysis and computer-aided simulations to produce the best possible products. Computer technology helps to create and analyze their designs as well as generating specifications for their models. Mechanical engineers also work with a variety of tools, engines, and machines to create their designs. 

Outside of creating new mechanical products, workers also integrate sensors and controllers onto existing devices to improve functionality. Their strong understanding of mechanics, structural analysis, and thermodynamics helps them see how mechanical devices can solve any problem. Mechanical engineers earn a median annual salary of $88,000.


Nuclear Engineer

Nuclear engineers work with nuclear energy and radiation; these scientists are at the forefront of the energy field. They research and develop new processes, devices, and systems utilizing nuclear energy to benefit society. This relatively new energy source has many industrial and medical uses, from cancer diagnosis and treatment to power sources for spacecraft. Nuclear engineers perform experiments on the use and disposal of nuclear material.

Along with researching new technologies, nuclear engineers ensure the safe operation and maintenance of current nuclear power plants to meet safety standards. As a result, many workers directly oversee maintenance and operation at power plants. They are responsible for keeping surrounding communities safe from any accidents. If there are issues, nuclear engineers find the problem and make sure proper mitigation techniques are in place. 

Nuclear engineers must have solid analytical, detail-oriented, and logical-thinking skills provided by an engineering degree. They have to pay close attention to what is happening around them to ensure that facilities are in compliance and that the workers and environment are protected. Due to their responsibilities, nuclear engineers make an impressive median salary of $113,000.


Petroleum Engineer

Petroleum engineers create and develop new methods for extracting oil and gas from beneath the surface. This can be in the form of new equipment for onshore and offshore excavation or innovative methods to recover additional oil and gas using the existing equipment. For example, researchers study strategies for injecting water or chemicals into an oil reserve to force more fuel out for collection.

In order to make sure petroleum recovery is safe and effective, petroleum engineers generally work onsite at drilling and well sites. They ensure all equipment is installed and operated properly to ensure safety and that no oil or gas is being wasted.Along with developing new technologies for oil extraction, engineers need to determine if the effort of extraction is worth the resources required. Petroleum engineers typically study petroleum engineering or a related field such as civil or chemical engineering to help analyze the problem. This field is lucrative, with a median annual salary of $137,000.

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What Can You Do With a Biology Degree? 10 Careers & Salaries Revealed https://collegegazette.com/what-can-you-do-with-a-biology-degree-careers-salaries-revealed/ Fri, 09 Apr 2021 18:45:57 +0000 https://collegegazette.com/?p=2057 Going to med school isn’t the only option for students with a biology degree. Many graduates find other ways to help people with their background knowledge, from treating diseases to sustaining the natural environment.  Biology encompasses the study of living things and is a popular choice for science-lovers. The coursework covers a variety of subjects […]

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Going to med school isn’t the only option for students with a biology degree. Many graduates find other ways to help people with their background knowledge, from treating diseases to sustaining the natural environment. 

Biology encompasses the study of living things and is a popular choice for science-lovers. The coursework covers a variety of subjects from the molecular level to entire communities of organisms. Required courses include biology, anatomy, genetics, microbiology, and pharmacology, which provide fundamental knowledge across a variety of professions. Students have the opportunity of pursuing higher degrees for more specialization, but there are plenty of jobs that do not require expertise beyond a biology degree.

This understanding of living processes allows graduates to pursue careers such as research scientists, healthcare practitioners, technicians, educators, medical sales, and more. In addition, biology students understand how to design experiments and interpret results, a highly transferable skill that indicates an analytical mindset. In addition, they gain hands-on learning through laboratory classes and research opportunities. Many courses require report writing that teaches students clear and accurate communication. 

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were nearly 3 million employees in the biology degree field in 2018. The field is growing quickly due to new advances in technology and an increased focus on protecting the environment. 

The median salary for those holding a biology degree is $65,000.

Here are 10 amazing careers – with salaries revealed – for those with a degree in biology.

Microbiologist

What can you do with a biology degree? Careers & Salaries Revealed

Microbiologists study tiny organisms such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites to understand how they interact with their environments. This field has broad effects on today’s world, from vaccine development to creating new biofuels. A typical day in this job involves planning and executing complex experiments that focus on isolating and culturing microorganisms. Microbiologists study how these cultures affect their environment and vice versa.

Outside of the laboratory, microbiologists review literature, attend conferences, and publish technical papers to share their findings with the community. They also need to present relevant results to the rest of their company or the public. Microbiology is interdisciplinary, and workers often perform research alongside medical professionals to help prevent and treat diseases.

As a specialization of biology, microbiology is a vital field where groundbreaking research is being performed. Biology degrees are related to microbiology programs, especially if there is a focus on microbes, biochemistry, and cell biology. It is also essential for microbiologists to have laboratory experience, which many biology graduates have plenty of. Microbiologists make a median salary of $75,700 per year.


Biological Technician

Biological technicians work primarily in the laboratory where they run scientific experiments and obtain accurate results. Technicians are needed throughout various industries, including hospitals, medical schools, government agencies, and biotechnology companies. Along with performing biological experiments, they are responsible for documenting their results and analyzing data. With more and more discoveries in biological fields, the need for research technicians is projected to grow 7% over the next decade, faster than the national average for all occupations.

Outside of running experiments, biological technicians help perform other tasks such as maintaining laboratory equipment, preparing samples for analysis, and writing technical reports to summarize their findings. They use a variety of laboratory instruments to carry out daily tasks including more advanced robotics and automated devices.

Research technicians need a strong understanding of biological concepts and prior hands-on laboratory experience, making graduates with a biology degree a good fit. Many courses within a biology degree program include laboratory courses that teach the basics needed to be a biological technician. The median pay for biological technicians is $45,900 annually.


Wildlife Biologist

Wildlife biologists research how animals and how they interact with their ecosystems. They are responsible for limiting the influence that humans have on natural habitats and vice versa. Wildlife biologists can work with animals directly to check their level of health and tag them for later tracking. These workers also do applied work through the conservation and management of various animal populations.

Today, many wildlife biologists work with public officials to protect species from extinction through conservation plans. They implement programs to protect wild populations and prevent the spread of invasive species. To share their findings, wildlife biologists write papers, give reports, and present information to others in the field and the general public.

An undergraduate degree in biology with more specialized coursework in wildlife biology or ecology prepares graduates for a career in wildlife biology. They learn about critical technical topics from different animal populations to cellular biology. Wildlife biologists also need strong communication, problem-solving, and occasionally outdoor skills to excel. In 2019, the median pay for wildlife biologists was $63,300.


Biochemist

Biochemists are at the forefront of new discoveries in biotechnology and biomedical research. This includes a variety of topics surrounding the chemical principles of living things, from cell development to heredity to disease. They have the laboratory skills and technical know-how to design and perform experiments to help advance the field. Biochemists work in basic and applied research to expand knowledge about biological processes and to solve specific problems.

Outside of the lab, biochemists review literature, prepare technical reports, and attend conferences in the field. Biochemists present their findings to other team members and will also use their writing abilities to find funding sources.

Biologists use their fundamental knowledge of anatomy and physiology to understand how specific drugs will affect the body. This knowledge is crucial in biochemistry. Although most biochemists obtain higher-level degrees, bachelor’s and master’s degree holders can qualify for entry-level positions in the field. Biochemists earn a median salary of $94,500.


Marine Biologist

Marine biologists research the numerous plants and animals that live within the ocean. They perform calculations and experiments to ensure that the habitat and the creatures within it are healthy. All work follows the scientific method and requires problem-solving skills to determine what to do to restore the environment. Marine biologists can specialize in specific fields, including marine conservation, rehabilitation, or environmental cleanups.

The majority of experiments are conducted in laboratories with access to current industry technologies. However, marine biologists also perform fieldwork at sea by collecting samples or observing organisms from boats and submarines. They aim to research the behavior and relationships among marine creatures in their natural habitat.

Many marine biologists graduate with biology degrees, where they gain fundamental knowledge in ecology, chemistry, physics, and statistics. Graduates with a strong writing background will do well in marine biology due to the need for communicating with various regulatory bodies and other audiences. Marine biologists earn an average base salary of $52,400.


Forensic Scientist

Forensic scientists use their knowledge of natural science to solve crimes. They are responsible for gathering and analyzing biological material to use as evidence. Forensic scientists may work directly in the field or the laboratory, depending on their specific role. In the laboratory, they use techniques such as DNA analysis, toxicology, and digital analysis to investigate samples. 

These workers also need to engage with the community to understand the current methodologies. Forensic scientists need to describe technical topics in a way that the general public can understand. Occasionally, they will be called to testify in court about their findings and need to be able to defend their methodology and conclusions.

Forensic scientists need to be detail-oriented, organized, and committed to justice. A technical background in biology is the starting point for success, with the strongest candidates having hands-on experience in the laboratory. In the United States, forensic scientists earn an average salary of $57,700.


Environmental Scientist

Environmental scientists use their background in biology to protect the environment and promote human health. They focus on cleaning up pollution, reducing waste, and assessing any threats to the planet. These scientists can work in the field to collect environmental samples or in a laboratory setting to analyze information and compile data. 

Environmental scientists also help advise government bodies on policies and work with them to ensure compliance. They prepare technical reports and presentations that explain their solutions to the greater public. Some environmental scientists work for consulting firms that help various companies meet sustainable guidelines. 

Positions in environmental science often do not require advanced degrees, with the exception of teaching and highest-level research. Although environmental science encompasses a wide range of natural sciences, a more focused degree such as biology provides specialized knowledge. Biology graduates understand how ecosystems work and factors influencing the environment and human health. The median pay for an environmental scientist in the United States is $71,400.


Agriculture and Food Scientist

Agriculture and food scientists find ways to maintain and expand the world’s food supply through research and development of new technologies. They ensure that our current agricultural establishments and products are safe and sustainable. In particular, agrarian scientists study soil composition and its relation to plant growth, whereas food scientists discover new food sources, packaging methods, and techniques for preservation.

Agricultural and food scientists spend most of their time studying data or running experiments in a laboratory or office setting. Occasionally, fieldwork brings them to various farms, processing plants, or production facilities. When visiting these sites, scientists ensure sanitary and efficient procedures are being followed.

Biology students are prime candidates to become agricultural and food scientists due to their foundational knowledge in biology, biochemistry, and plant physiology. This knowledge is essential to understand the biological processes through which livestock and crops grow. The median salary in this field was $65,200 annually in 2019.


Pharmaceutical Representative

Pharmaceutical representatives sell medicines to hospitals, clinics, and other medical institutions. They need a robust scientific understanding of how a new drug will affect patients. Chemistry, anatomy, and physiology are essential technical topics to be able to communicate to doctors and patients. By connecting providers with new treatments, they help healthcare providers bring life-saving medicines to the public.

Along with learning about their company’s products, pharmaceutical representatives must study competing drugs and how they differ in function and benefits. These workers acquire new customers through individual meetings, conferences, and other events. Due to the quickly growing pharmaceutical industry, there are always new medicines to research and promote.

Most pharmaceutical representatives study life sciences, including chemistry or biology, to understand how particular medicines work. They also need to be strong communicators to convey benefits and specific information about their products. Pharmaceutical sales representatives make an average total compensation of $150,000, due to high base salaries and additional commissions. 


Science Writer

Science writers use their technical understanding of the sciences to create exciting and accurate pieces of work. They can write for journals, magazines, or other publications and cover a wide range of topics, including physical, chemical, or biological sciences. These writers must analyze data and accurately summarize results. Additionally, they are responsible for communicating complex technical topics in a way that the average reader can understand. 

Science writers can work with a specific publication or as a freelancer. Along with solid writing abilities, they must be adept at communicating with a variety of sources. They interview scientists and other members of the community to understand the scientific processes at play. 

A biology degree provides essential knowledge and experience with technical subjects that make topics easier to comprehend and write about. Employers generally favor writers who have a proven background in the subject. Communication skills are essential for conveying accurate and engaging information. Technical writers across all disciplines made an average salary of $77,000 in 2019.

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What Can You Do With a Communications Degree? 10 Careers & Salaries Revealed https://collegegazette.com/what-can-you-do-with-a-communications-degree-careers-salaries-revealed/ Fri, 09 Apr 2021 18:18:15 +0000 https://collegegazette.com/?p=2053 Communications graduates understand how to communicate information effectively, an ability that is useful in all industries. Their course load includes communication theory, research methods, speech, public relations, and mass media. In addition to background knowledge, they gain highly employable skills from critical thinking to interpersonal communication.  Individuals with a communications degree understand how people send […]

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Communications graduates understand how to communicate information effectively, an ability that is useful in all industries. Their course load includes communication theory, research methods, speech, public relations, and mass media. In addition to background knowledge, they gain highly employable skills from critical thinking to interpersonal communication. 

Individuals with a communications degree understand how people send and receive messages and what factors influence communication. They can apply this knowledge to present company goals in the most precise possible way both within the company and to consumers and clients. This ability is especially useful in fields such as marketing, media, and public relations. However, a communications degree can be used in any company that wants to achieve specific business goals through media or needs effective internal communication.

In today’s world, social media and increasing methods of consuming media has produced even more ways to use a communications degree. Social media platforms have large amounts of audiences who consume content to learn about products and services. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, media and communication occupations are projected to grow 4% over the next decade, adding 46,000 more jobs. This demand is due to an increased need to create, edit, translate, and spread information. In 2019, employees throughout the communications and media industries earned a median salary of $60,000.

Without further ado, here are 10 careers and their salaries that you can find success in with a communications degree.


Journalist

UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media
Mihaly I. Lukacs, Carroll Hall UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media, CC BY-SA 4.0

Journalists are key players in the media industry. They write about a wide range of topics for outlets such as television, the Internet, and newspapers. Depending on their specialty, journalists cover areas from local news to blockbuster movies and national events. They are responsible for researching and learning about a topic, then finding the most effective way to communicate the information. 

While creating their stories, journalists rely on sources to bring a new perspective. They must work with insiders to learn what information they have and maintain working relationships built on trust and communication. These sources add credibility to their writing and make stories more interesting.

Journalists utilize interpersonal skills that they learned through a communications major to cultivate relationships and effectively communicate through writing. They must also be able to persuade editors and other management that their ideas will be well-received by the audience. The average salary for a journalist in the United States is $41,200.


Communications Manager

Communications managers are in charge of internal and external communications within a specific organization. They work to ensure the company messaging is consistent and aligns with the overall mission of the organization. They are responsible for creating engaging press releases, media reports, and marketing content.

Communications managers help to build brand recognition and attract clients and customers. They need strong organizational and communication skills to work with employees across the marketing and PR departments. Managers work to generate new strategies and ensure all content is ready for publication. In addition, communications managers need strong leadership skills to keep their team on track.

As the name suggests, communications graduates are an ideal match as a communications manager. Their experience in communication practices and techniques, along with proven written and verbal skills, make them especially well-suited for the role. Due to their increased responsibilities, communications managers earn an average salary of $66,000.


Advertising Manager

Advertising managers lead the marketing team in creating unique and brand-specific advertisement campaigns. They make sure that all advertising activities are consistent with the company’s message and work towards meeting company goals. Managers are responsible for supervising and collaborating with other employees to complete the project effectively. 

Along with internal communication, advertising managers must work with clients to understand project objectives and expectations. They drive awareness and interest in specific products and services through well-designed advertisements. Advertising employees must be creative, collaborative, and a proven problem-solver. 

Communications majors do well in the advertisement industry due to their in-depth knowledge of the relationship between marketing strategies and public perception. They understand how to drive consumer engagement and promote a brand’s specific message through print and electronic advertisements. Communication experts will collect and analyze data and then present it in the most effective way to various audiences. Advertising managers make an average base salary of $65,000.


Public Relations Specialist

Public relations specialists help organizations manage their public image through press releases, conferences, and other events. They use other social media platforms to increase public awareness of their specific mission and their work to achieve those goals. PR professionals help attract public attention by working with the media to share engaging stories about their company. 

Along with maintaining a company’s public image from the office, PR specialists attend local activities and events to inform the community about its mission. They are usually good communicators, from speeches to written press releases.

Communications majors are a good fit as a PR specialist due to their background knowledge in effectively communicating information and public perception. Public relations specialists can work with a specific organization or with an agency that serves a broader clientele. PR professionals can also work with government agencies to keep the public informed about government activities and goals. These specialists earn a median annual salary of $61,000.


Human Resources Specialist

Human Resource specialists are responsible for a wide range of internal functions within a company, such as recruitment, orientation, training, company policies, benefits, and company newsletters. They are responsible for presenting important information to the current employees to ensure successful communication between upper management and all employees. 

In addition, they work with prospective hires to make sure they understand the company’s mission and job requirements. HR specialists help employers find qualified candidates who will meet and exceed the company’s needs. They are the bridge between applicants and hiring managers and help organize interviews, offers, and background checks. HR specialists also help communicate with prospective employees to inform them of their candidacy status and necessary next steps.

Those who work in HR need strong public speaking and writing abilities to deliver information throughout the company effectively. Communications majors are a strong fit for this role because they understand the best ways to present information to current and future employees. HR specialists typically make an annual salary of $62,000.


Brand Manager

Brand managers help sell a specific product or service to the public. This is done by analyzing the public perception of their product and adjusting consumer experience, packaging, accessibility, and marketing necessary for effective promotion. Brand managers are also responsible for creating advertising campaigns to improve sales for a specific product. 

The marketing and advertising activities that brand managers perform help to develop the brand’s personality. Factors such as consumer experience and packaging can affect public perception of a specific product. Well-designed campaigns will share the company’s message interestingly and honestly. This brand management helps to drive customer engagement and product sales.

Brand managers must communicate with other sales, marketing, and advertising groups to ensure that the product is well-promoted. Communications majors are trained in evaluating the effectiveness of various marketing techniques, understanding how to analyze consumer reactions. Due to their advertising and communication expertise, brand managers earn an average salary of $71,000.


Event Planner

Successful and engaging events could not happen without the dedicated work of event planners. These workers must understand the overall mission of the company and attract attendees through compelling promotion. Before the event even starts, event planners must promote the event to appeal to the broader public through press releases and exciting descriptions. This advertising can occur through the company website, social media, or other media sources.

Event planners also need strong attention to detail and organizational abilities to ensure that the hosts and attendees have everything they need. This will help the event run smoothly and maintain the reputation of the hosting organization. In addition, the theme and event itself should align with the company’s public image. Event planners resolve any problems as they arise so that the company comes off as professional.

Event planners need strong communication skills to work with vendors, clients, and event attendees to create a successful event. Graduates who study communications understand how to work with the media to promote the event and have strong organizational skills to ensure that it runs smoothly. Event planners earn an average base salary of $50,100 per year.


Announcer

Announcers present music, news, and sports and provide their own individual commentary. These hosts share information through a variety of platforms, including television, radio, and podcasts. Some announcers interview guests about important topics or moderate larger panels of professionals. These presenters need strong public speaking abilities and an engaging personality to keep audiences entertained.

Announcers may also be responsible for other aspects of broadcasting, such as advertising and content editing. Radio and television announcers attract a larger audience through a solid social media presence. These platforms allow another way for them to interact with audiences and promote their specific brand.

Communications majors make good radio or television announcers due to their ability to communicate important information effectively. They also understand factors that influence consumer engagement and ways to bolster views and ratings. Many announcers, along with a communications degree, have experience broadcasting through a college radio or television station. Announcers make a median salary of $34,000.


Social Media Manager

Social media managers understand how to effectively communicate with audiences to attract large numbers of viewers and fans. They are responsible for selecting what content to use and where to post it to promote the company’s brand. They need to present their planned content to their clients effectively and convince customers to contribute honest and personalized reviews. 

In addition, social media planners must have strong writing abilities to promote their organization’s message through social networks such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Social media is less formal than other methods such as press releases, but still needs to get the company’s mission across.

As social media becomes a more popular way of communicating, people who study communications are especially well-suited to social media management jobs. They know how to analyze communication patterns and can confidently use various social media platforms to help organizations promote their messages interestingly and effectively. Social media managers make an average salary of $51,000.


Speechwriter

Speechwriting is the field of creating compelling speeches for others to deliver. They work with a variety of clients, including executives, philanthropists, athletes, and politicians who want to share a streamlined message that will interest audiences. They work with their specific client to develop the overarching message and key talking points.

Because these speeches will be delivered to live guests, these writers must take audience reactions into account. While some speeches are written to convince the audience of something, others thank donors or outline company history. Effective communication is an integral part of speechwriting to share the client’s mission, background, and overall message. 
Experts in communication understand interpersonal communication and how to make a speech stand out. Successful speechwriters will be able to adapt their writing to meet each client’s necessary tone and mindset. Speechwriters make an average base salary of $84,000 due to their specialized communications knowledge.

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What Can You Do With a Law Degree? 15 Jobs and Salaries Revealed https://collegegazette.com/what-can-you-do-with-a-law-degree-jobs-salaries-revealed/ Wed, 03 Mar 2021 15:41:35 +0000 https://collegegazette.com/?p=1719 Finding the right career can be difficult, especially when you have to obtain a degree to pursue your passion. Law degrees are notoriously difficult to get, but they also come with the benefit of opening up a wide range of career options for you. Whether you simply want to be a criminal lawyer like you’ve […]

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Finding the right career can be difficult, especially when you have to obtain a degree to pursue your passion. Law degrees are notoriously difficult to get, but they also come with the benefit of opening up a wide range of career options for you. Whether you simply want to be a criminal lawyer like you’ve seen on TV or do something more specialized, there’s a career for you. 

Ensuring you know what you want to do with your law degree is vital considering all the time you have to spend getting it. Fortunately, there is no wrong answer when you’re choosing what to do with a law degree. If you’re wondering what you can do with your law degree, here are 15 common law degree jobs.

Jobs & Salaries As a Lawyer

Business Lawyer

Business Law
Jonathunder, CourtGavel, CC BY-SA 4.0

Whether an individual wants to start a business or needs help resolving a legal business issue, you can help them by offering your services as a business lawyer. This is an excellent job because there are numerous types of businesses you can work for, some of which may align more closely with your interests. Your salary as a business lawyer depends on the type and size of business you’re representing. When you represent a very large business that has to take on a lot of legal cases, you’re going to make more money. However, the median salary for a business lawyer is around $120,000 as of 2018.

Civil Rights Lawyer

There are certain liberties and rights we’re all supposed to be afforded as citizens, but those rights and liberties aren’t always protected. A civil rights lawyer fights to help protect individual rights and liberties from being encroached upon. Civil rights lawyers may take on cases involving unlawful arrests, discrimination, wrongful convictions, and racial profiling. While the average starting salary for a civil rights lawyer is about $45,000, that number can skyrocket to $200,000+ with experience and the right position.

Family Lawyer

As a family lawyer, you can take on a broad range of cases, which leads many family lawyers to specialize even further. Some of the cases you may handle as a family lawyer include those involving custody, adoption, prenuptial agreements and divorce. Family lawyers are the ones who help dissolve a marriage and divide property equally between the two parties, as well as helping determine who is going to have primary custody of the child. A family lawyer makes an average salary of about $70,000, although that number can go quite a bit higher if you choose to specialize in one area of family law.

Patent & Intellectual Property Lawyer

When a company or individual invents something, they need to protect that invention from being stolen by other companies or individuals. As a patent and intellectual property lawyer, it’s your job to help inventors determine what they can and cannot patent and file patents for anything that can be patented. Once somebody has a patent for their product, a patent lawyer is also responsible for defending that patent from being infringed upon. If you choose to go down this path, you’ll enjoy a median salary of $129,000 or so.

Criminal Lawyer

Criminal law is what most people think of when they think of law degree jobs. If seeing characters in movies and TV shows inspired you to be a lawyer, you already know what being a criminal lawyer is all about. As a criminal lawyer, you will find yourself defending individuals and organizations against a wide variety of criminal charges they may face. These criminal charges may also be at the state or federal level, which means there is a lot of flexibility in the kind of work you do. Public defenders earn a median salary of about $52,000, with more successful criminal lawyers easily going above six figures.

Entertainment Lawyer

As an entertainment lawyer, you get a chance to make an impact on the business side of the entertainment industry. Entertainment lawyers handle cases for clients who want to protect their film, television show, music, theater production or any other form of artistic expression. Not only do entertainment lawyers have an exciting job at times, but they can also make very good money. Depending on where you live, you can earn more than $100,000 as an entertainment lawyer.

Tax Lawyer

Sometimes an individual, organization, or business runs into trouble with tax agencies. A tax lawyer can help individuals, organizations, and businesses by representing them when dealing with federal, state, and local tax agencies. This means that tax lawyers have to spend a good amount of time brushing up on the latest legislation and being aware of tax law in general. Tax lawyers earn a median salary of about $100,000, making this one of the more lucrative types of law to practice as long as you don’t mind dealing with tax law.

Employment Lawyer

There are often disputes when it comes to the workplace, and those disputes need to be settled professionally. An employment lawyer can represent either an employer or an individual in a workplace dispute to ensure the right decision is made. One example of this is determining whether an employer is complying with employment laws or not. Employment lawyers enjoy a median annual salary of about $144,000.

Real Estate Lawyer

Real Estate Lawyer
Tracy Collins, New York Court of Appeals hearing oral arguments, CC BY-SA 2.0

Each real estate transaction requires complicated legal documents, which is one of the things a real estate lawyer can take care of. However, real estate lawyers are also experts regarding things like zoning, property development, and tenant law. An example of a case that a real estate lawyer may take would be a landlord attempting to sue a tenant for unpaid rent. While real estate law isn’t the top of the line when it comes to money, you’ll still earn a median salary of about $90,000 as a real estate lawyer.

Immigration Lawyer

Immigrating to the United States is a complex process, which means the individuals who decide to do that need help. An immigration lawyer helps individuals and families who are immigrating to the US by guiding them through every step of the process. Not only is this an exciting type of law to practice, but it can also be very satisfying to help families achieve better lives. If you decide to become an immigration lawyer, you can easily earn six figures.

What Can You Do with a Law Degree Besides Being a Lawyer?

Arbitration

Not every dispute needs to be settled in court; in fact, sometimes it’s better to settle out of court. An arbitrator can help examine the facts of a case to decide how the parties involved should proceed. Often times, an arbitrator will be a retired judge, lawyer or some other type of expert when it comes to law. Being an arbitrator is fascinating because of the wide variety of cases you can deal with. Plus, you can earn an average salary of about $64,000 without having to be a lawyer.

Paralegal

Aspiring law degree holders often wonder, “What can you do with a law degree besides be a lawyer?” One way to put your legal skills and expertise to work without being a full-blown lawyer is to become a paralegal instead. A paralegal works closely with lawyers to handle the administrative side of the law. As a paralegal, you aren’t allowed to represent a client in court or offer legal advice. You can still earn an average salary of about $55,000 as a paralegal, however.

Entrepreneur

One of the toughest parts about being an entrepreneur is dealing with the legal side of creating and operating a business. If you’re already familiar with business and employment law (and the law in general), you’ve got a head start on the competition when it comes to starting your own business or creating your own product. The best part is, there is literally no ceiling when it comes to the salary of an entrepreneur. If you work hard enough and find your way to success, the payoff can be immense.

Mediator

A mediator is like an arbitrator, but you aren’t actually making the final decision regarding the settlement. Instead, a mediator hears all the facts from both parties, then discusses possible resolutions. Since a mediator doesn’t actually get to make the final call, they have to work closely with clients to reach a decision that works for everybody. The average salary for a mediator is about $60,000.

Chief Financial Officer

As a chief financial officer (CFO), you are responsible for the financial decisions a company makes. A CFO is responsible for handling cash flow, financial planning, and analysis of the company’s financial situation. This can be a very taxing job title to hold, but it’s also one that comes with a lot of power and benefits. If you don’t mind taking on a lot of responsibility, you’ll earn a median salary of about $136,000 per year as a CFO.

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What Can You Do With an Art Degree? 100+ Careers & Salaries Revealed https://collegegazette.com/what-can-you-do-with-an-art-degree-100-careers-salaries-revealed/ Mon, 13 Jan 2020 16:57:24 +0000 https://collegegazette.com/?p=1266 Who says you can’t make a great living with an art degree? Time and time again, young talents desire to attend college to pursue visual & fine arts, but incorrectly feel that doing so may jeopardize career earnings. Actually, the opposite is true: going to college for art can open up a significant world of […]

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Who says you can’t make a great living with an art degree?

Time and time again, young talents desire to attend college to pursue visual & fine arts, but incorrectly feel that doing so may jeopardize career earnings.

Actually, the opposite is true: going to college for art can open up a significant world of opportunity, providing the foundational skills for success in dozens of lucrative careers.

Pursuing a career in art, however, can give you something so much more than just a fantastic salary; it can provide the path towards a career you feel incredibly passionate about.

However, just like anyone in any discipline, artists desire to have careers filled with opportunity, satisfaction, and very importantly, a consistent salary.

The following careers are all excellent choices for the aspiring professional artist. Many of these careers fall under the traditional categories of design, illustration, and teaching, however there are a number of unique, unusual, and highly lucrative careers listed here as well.

Do note that many of these careers you can get with just an art degree, while some will need additional specialization or education outside of a single degree.

Also, all salaries posted are median salaries. The top level artists in every field below can make up to 2x or more than the listed salaries depending on their level of expertise, years in the industry, and more.

Here are 100+ amazing careers you can get with an arts degree – salary information included.

Animator

Animators create multiple frames that, when displayed in a rapid sequence, display the illusion of movement. Animators are highly in-demand in the fields of television, video games, and films. 

Additionally, many independent animators can display their animations online and develop a following they can monetize, such as FilmCow on YouTube.

Salary: $55k/year (Payscale)


Appraiser

Someone who provides a professional opinion on the value, as well as the authenticity, of a work of art.

Salary: $60,000/year (Study.com)


Architect

An architect plans the creation of buildings. This includes helping to design the buildings. Usually requires an architecture specialty degree.

You can succeed in this profession either as an employee of an architecture firm, or you can start your own firm and secure very large contracts.

Salary: $72,000/year (Glassdoor)


Art Agent

A representative of an artist whose primary function is to sell the art of their client. Art agents are paid by commission, usually between 15% – 35%.

Salary: Commission-based, between 15%-35% (Wikipedia). The most successful artist agents exceed $75k/year. The top 1% easily make six figures.


Arts Administrator

Person who helps oversee the day-to-day functions of an arts company. This work includes administrative, clerical, and fundraising efforts. Some places that employ arts administrators include museums, galleries, and even large-scale musical ensembles like the New York Philharmonic.

Salary: $62,000/year (Paysa)


Art Handler

Also known as an art preparator, this is an individual who is trained to work with artwork. Although it may sound simple, it is not; considering many works of art are worth millions, delicate and professional handling is required to preserve the integrity of the work.

Salary: $34,125/year (Neuvoo)


Art Restorer

An individual who skillfully repairs damage to a work of art. Art restorers can work on sculptures, paintings, ceramics, valuable books, and more.

Salary: $42,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


Art Therapist

A unique form of psychotherapy, arts therapists facilitate creative self-expression through visual media. The result for an art therapist’s clients can be a reduction in stress as well as an increase in cognition and emotional well-being.

Salary: $45,000/year (Payscale)


Assistant to Artist

High-level, successful artists need help with their day-to-day life. Artist assistants can do anything from maintaining an artist’s workspace, fetching supplies, and doing clerical work for an artist to helping an artist promote their work on social media. Other duties can include handling the schedule of the artist.

Fantastic entry-level job for someone just graduating college.

Salary: $18.50/hour (Payscale)


Automotive Designer

Creating the appearance of an automobile. This industry applies to essentially any motorized vehicle, including cars, busses, trucks, vans, and motorcycles. 

Salary: $78,000/year (Paysa)


Billboard Artist

An artist who designs the appearance of billboards for use when advertising. One of many much-needed commercial artist positions on this list.

Salary: $57,000/year (Paysa)


Brand Designer

An artist responsible for the visual look of a company, including graphics, logos, colors, brochures, and other marketing materials design. Think about the colors, shapes, fonts of Apple vs. Amazon, or Rolex vs. Coca-Cola; a brand designer has overseen all of this before the public views it.

Salary: $81,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


CAD Drafter

Someone who uses computers to design products and buildings. CAD Drafters are highly in-demand in many major firms and agencies worldwide. In addition to knowledge of art, it also requires knowledge in computer programs specializing in commercial design.

Salary: $55,000/year (Study.com)


Calligrapher

Calligraphers design letters and special characters with a broad tip instrument, brush, stencil, or electronic pencil. Many calligraphers are self-employed and the salary range can vary tremendously depending on how much work an individual calligrapher commissions.

Salary: $65,000/year (CareerExplorer) Self-employed artists have the ability to make significantly more.


Camera Operator

Many arts degrees these days teach the art of filmmaking as well as videography. Even with the rise of selfie cameras, camera operators are as in-demand as they have ever been. Their work includes film, television, and internet publications.

Salary: $82,000 (Salary.com)


Caricaturist

An artist who specializes in making caricatures, which are exaggerated drawings of individuals, most notably in editorial cartoons. Hundreds of artists have made livings as caricaturists.

Salary: Caricaturists, if employed by a major company, would be called cartoonists, which is also listed here. However, independent caricature artists can make a lot of money if marketed well.


Cartoonist

Someone who draws cartoons, including television cartoons as well as editorial cartoons and even comic books.

Salary: $63,000/year (Salary.com)


Ceramicist (Ceramics Artist)

Someone who makes ceramics, such as pottery. Ceramicists take raw material, mold it, then heat it up in a kiln and then paint it before taking the work to market. 

Salary: $53,000/year (TheArtCareerProject)


Cinematographer 

An artist who captures images for films and major motion pictures. They do this through image-capture technology like cameras.

Salary: $58,000/year (TheArtCareerProject)


College Administration

Many independent art schools, such as RISD and Maryland College of Art, employ administrators with a background in the fine arts. Additionally, major universities needs arts coordinators to oversee the clerical and logistical functions of an arts department.

Salary: $92,000/year (PayScale)


College Art Professor

Teaches & lectures on relevant topics in the world of art, including contemporary art, art history, and art creation.

Many college professors make two incomes, one from their own artistic endeavors, another from being a professor, making this position flexible and ideal for thousands of artists worldwide.

Salary: Assistant professor $52,000/year. Associate professor $63,000/year. Full professor $81,000/year. Often includes the best benefits of any workplace and eventually tenureship (Chron)


Comic Strip Artist

An artist who creates independent comics or for inclusion in a weekly newspaper. Famous examples of newspaper comics include Dilbert as well as Garfield. 

Oftentimes comic strip artists call themselves cartoonists, also covered in this article.

Salary: $60,000/year (Chron)


Commercial Art Director

Someone who oversees the artistic direction in any number of fields, including theatre, film, advertising, marketing, and more.

Most major product companies need an in-residence team of designers and a director to oversee them for everything from product creation to advertising. Art direction can be very lucrative, especially if working in a large-budget team where the company’s visual appeal is crucial for business success.

Salary: $86,000/year (Paysa) – top art directors can make significantly more, especially if the success of a big-budget production is dependent on their work.


Commercial Artist

Art created for the purposes of helping to sell a product or service, most often used in advertising. Think logos, product design, choice of colors used in an advertising campaign, and more. Perhaps the world’s most famous commercial artist historically would be Andy Warhol.

Salary: $61,000/year (Economic Research Institute)


Community Arts Worker

Someone employed by a government or community to help shape the appearance of a town or other communal space. Their work can include creating artwork for the community, putting together public fundraisers, overseeing professionals to work on arts-related projects, and more.

Salary: $48,500/year (CareerAddict)


Concept artist

Illustration used to create an idea in films, animation, video games, or other visual media. Think about major television productions requiring expansive artistic direction for animated characters.

Salary: $64,000/year (Indeed)


Conceptual artist

Art Installation
Iriber Photo, Installation art in San Sebastian. Irantzu Lekue contemporary artist. Aztarnak. Conceptual art, CC BY-SA 4.0

Not to be confused with the previous entry, conceptual artists create work in which the idea, process, or method is the guiding factor in the work’s creation. A commonly used type of conceptual art is large-scale installation, many of which charge fees to experience the art.

Salary: Depends entirely on the reputation and success of the artist. Anywhere from entry-level salary to mid-6 figures or more if the artist is very successful.


Consultant for the Arts

Anyone who is hired for their expertise regarding the arts. Common forms of arts consultants include art investment consultants, who are hired to help a client understand the potential appreciation or depreciation of artwork, as well as arts consultants for hotels to help design their internal appearance.

Salary: $93,000/year (Comparably)


Corporate Photography

Major corporations hire corporate photographers for headshots of personnel in their business. Imagine businesses with over 1,000+ employees, each with a biography on their website (such as a major law firm website). Because photographers are charging major corporations, asking for large sums is not unexpected.

Salary: $75,000/year (ZipRecruiter). Individual corporate photographers can make significantly more money.


Costume Designer

An individual who designs & creates costumes for stage, film, television, and any live or videotaped production. Usually works in tandem with a production’s creative personnel, including lighting and scenic directors.

Salary: $39,000/year (Salary)


Courtroom Artist

Because most jurisdictions do not allow cameras in a court of law, courtroom artists are important intermediaries between the courtroom proceedings and the public/media.

Salary: $53,000/year (The Art Career Project)


Critic – Art Critic

An individual who analyzes and interprets art. They additionally evaluate art for their excellence.

Art critics can find work in creating independent art blogs, as professors in major universities, or in writing pieces for major publications. Some historically famous art critics include Roger Fry and Lawrence Alloway.

Salary: Average is $53,000/year (ZipRecruiter). However, if you work for a major top-tier publication such as The New York Times, you can command a salary of $130k+


Culinary Artist

A cook, chef, or other culinary professional who not only prepares food, but makes “edible works of art.” Cake decoration also can fall into this category. Usually requires a degree or background in culinary arts rather than a traditional art degree, however an art degree can help boost credibility and ability in this profession.

Salary: $43,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


Editorial Illustration

Artists who create images to grab a reader’s attention. Used often in periodicals, magazines, and web/print publications.

Salary: $53,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


Engraver/Etcher

An individual who uses specialized mechanical tools to engrave designs/text into hard objects, such as glass and metal.

Salary: $34,000/year (YourFreeCareerTest)


Entrepreneur – Arts

Any individual who creates an arts-based business. Can be more conventional such as opening a gallery displaying and selling your own artwork, or can be out-of-the-box. For the latter, think about Paint Nite, the national sensation where people take classes in artmaking and pay to attend.

Salary: Sky’s the limit


Exhibition Designer

Someone who professionally creates displays for large-scale organizations and events, such as conferences, trade shows, and museums. Several professional exhibition design firms employing hundreds of people exist in the US, including Ralph Appelbaum Associates based in NYC.

Salary: $54k/year (CareerExplorer)


Fashion Consultant

Sometimes called personal stylists, fashion consultants help their clients achieve the right “look.” Fashion consultants often work alongside movie stars and public personalities.

Salary: $58,000/year (Chron)


Fashion Designer

The practice of creating original designs for fashion wear, including clothing, bags, shoes, and more. Fashion designers are central to an apparel company’s success. Major fashion designers are also often entrepreneurs and start their own major companies, such as Ralph Lauren and the late Gianni Versace.

Salary: $95,000/year (Salary.com)


Fashion Illustration

Illustrating fashion concepts and ideas prior to actual fashion creation. Sometimes accomplished by the fashion designer, however major clothing and fashion companies hire both designers and illustrators.

Salary: $51,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


Fashion Merchandising

Fashion specialists who plan exact merchandise to sell at the right time. Fashion merchandisers closely watch for trends in the fashion industry, looking to get ahead of competitors so their company has an economic advantage when selling specific products. 

Salary: $50,000/year (PayScale)


Filmmaker

An individual who creates films for consumer commercial consumption. Filmmaking has been the dominant art form of the 20th and 21st centuries in terms of gross dollars.

Salary: Filmmakers can hold a number of duties in the process of making films. The average filmmaker salary is $54,000/year according to ZipRecruiter. However, the top positions in a filmmaking studio, such as the director, will often make significantly more money.


Fine artist

Art that is created for the sake of art itself, and generally accepted as separate from art for commercial purposes. 

Salary: If you are employed as a sculptor, painer, or illustrator, your salary can be $40,000 – $60,000/year according to Recruiter. If you are an independent artist with a major following, you can make anywhere from a few thousand to millions per year.


Floral Designer

Floral designers use plants to create visually satisfying patterns. Many florists open their own shops, and small boutiques may employ a floral designer in their own shop. 

Salary: $51,000/year (Salary.com)


Forensic Artist

Ever watch mystery television shows and see the person who draws a sketch based on a witness description? This position exists in real life and is integral to helping law enforcement find suspects when no photographic evidence otherwise exists.

Catching criminals is not the only job of a forensic artist; they also do other illustrations associated with legal enforcement and proceedings.

Salary: $61,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


Gallery Assistant

Similar to an artist assistant, a gallery assistant helps with clerical, administrative, and the general day-to-day tasks of a professional art gallery. 

Salary: $36,000/year (Study.com). In the real world, while some full-time gallery assistant positions exist, many are part-time positions and some are even internship-based.


Gallery Manager

Gallery managers can do a wide variety of tasks based on the needs of the gallery. One common task is the “front of house” role where gallery managers help to take care of customers in the gallery interested in purchasing artwork. 

Salary: $48,000/year (Salary.com)


Gallery Director

An individual who oversees the artistic vision and direction of a gallery, as well as help boost the gallery’s fame and reputation. A great gallery director helps shape the public’s perspective of an art gallery through careful curation and an understanding of a gallery’s particular aesthetic.

Salary: $54,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


Gem Cutter

A person who shapes, cuts, polishes and places gemstones. A gem cutter is also commonly known as a lapidary.

Salary: $45,000/year (Economic Research Institute).


Glassblower

Glassblowers help formulate the appearance of glass by blowing by inflating molten glass with a pipe. This position is also called a gaffer or glassmith. 

Salary: $33,000/year (CareerExplorer)


Graphic designer

photo by RawPixel.com via Shutterstock

An individual who designs or otherwise transforms images. In the modern world, graphic designers are often associated with design on computer programs, such as Illustrator and PhotoShop.

Salary: $46,000/year (GlassDoor)


Greeting Card Designer

All those Hallmark cards need a skilled, qualified artist to oversee and design greeting cards prior to sale. 

Salary: $38,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


Group Art Course Instructor

An individual who leads casual students in a course on making art. Famous examples include Paint Nite as well as Sip & Script. 

Salary: Paint Nite (now Yaymaker) pays instructors an average of $21/hour according to Indeed.


Digital Artist

Utilizing technology to create original work. Digital artists are in high demand for commercial applications, and their work overlaps with many of the other professions on this list. Digital art activities include painting, drawing, modeling, music, sound engineering, and more.

Salary: Freelancers make an average of $62,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


Furniture Designer

An individual who helps design beds, couches, chairs, stools, and any other piece of furniture. Major furniture companies, such as Ikea and Herman Miller, employ furniture designers.

Salary: $51,000/year (PayScale)


Illustrator

An artist who creates a visual piece to articulate the meaning of any given text. Illustrators are used in dozens of applications, including children’s books, textbooks, documentaries, and dozens more.

Salary: $53,000/year (Chron)


Industrial Designer

Someone who designs products intended to be produced at a massive scale for retail sale. It is separate from the actual manufacturing of a product. A related career on this list is CAD Drafting.

Salary: $65,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


Interior Designer

An individual who improves the quality of a building’s interior. Interior designers are employed by corporations to design major buildings and by individuals who want to enhance their individual living space.

Salary: $59,000/year (Indeed)


Jewelry Designer

Any individual who creates and designs jewelry, including necklaces, watches, rings, earrings, and other accessories.

Salary: Although ZipRecruiter says the national average salary is $44,000/year, designers employed in major companies such as Tiffany’s make more than $100,000/year (Glassdoor).


Lawyer – Arts Specialty

Someone who helps oversee the protection, copyright, marketing, and legality behind the creation and selling of art. This is a niche specialty in the arts world. In addition to an art degree, this profession requires a JD, or Juris Doctor, as any lawyer requires a JD to practice.

Salary: $86,000 is average according to Comparably, however the most successful lawyers in any field can make over $400k+ a year.


Librarian – Art

Someone who oversees art collection, research, and questions about art in a college, university, museum, or other place requiring a professional librarian.

Salary: The median salary for any librarian, according to Study.com, is $56,000/year.


Lithographer

An artist who paints onto a stone or metal using special oils. An ancient art, lithography is a printing technology employed worldwide for both fine art and commercial purposes.

Salary: $43,000/year (Economic Research Institute


Logo Designer

Every company, store, website, and individual proprietor needs a logo. In the US alone, over 50,000+ businesses start every month, and they all need logos. This profession falls under graphic design, but is a widely-needed specialty in that niche.

Salary: $59,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


K-12 Teacher

An individual who teaches art classes in a public or private elementary, middle, or high school. For teaching in a public school, an education degree and certification is normally required in addition to an art degree.

Salary: $55,000/year (Glassdoor)


Magazine Art Director

An executive who oversees the artistic direction and visual appeal of a magazine or other periodical. Every major magazines employs staff in art direction to help drive the aesthetic look and sales of magazine.

Salary: $93,000/year (CareerExplorer – general art director salary)


Makeup Artist

A specialist who applies makeup and other enhancements to individuals most commonly for stage purposes, such as theatre, film, and television. Makeup artists are also found in the consumer industry.

Salary: $32/hour (Indeed)


Metalworker

An individual who uses metal to create objects. Metalworking is associated with art, although a great deal of metalworking is also involved in trades not frequently associated with art.

Salary: $48,000/year (CareerExplorer


Musician

Someone who plays, composes, or produces music for a living. The music industry sometimes requires specialized training an art degree would not provide, however a background in art can help shape the creativity and success of a musician.

Salary: $45,000/year (Salary.com)


Mural Artist

Artwork painted or created on a wall. Famous mural artists include Banksy and Diego Rivera.

Salary: Muralists fall under the category of fine artist, and the government says the salary of a fine artist averages to $46,000/year (TheArtCareerProject).


Multimedia Programmer

Software engineers who specialize in adding graphics and other intricate visual design elements to software. Often requires knowledge of coding as well as art.

Salary: $66,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


Museum Curator

Someone who oversees a museum’s contents, including all artwork and installations. Curators are also employed in major artist galleries. Museum directors and museum curators usually have the same responsibilities.

Salary: $59,000/year (Salary.com)


Museum Photographer

Someone who takes pictures of works of art in a museum. These pictures must be high-quality as they are used in marketing and sales materials to promote the museum.

Salary: $39,000/year (ZipRecruiter)

Papermaker

An individual who specializes in the creation of paper, typically unique handmade papers for artistic expression. While what the general public thinks of as paper is made using automated manufacturing, specialty papermaking is practiced by both novices as well as professionals.

Salary: $44,000/year (SalaryExpert)


Performing Artist

Someone who specializes in a live action artform, such as dancing, acting, music performance, comedy, and ventriloquism. Although most art degrees are separate from performing arts degrees, they are still useful for careers in these fields.

Salary: $53,000/year (Comparably


Photographer

Anyone who takes pictures for a living. As outlined in this article, many photographers have specialty niches, including news, wedding, and corporate photography. However, some photographers have made livings based on just selling their original photography; a famous example is landscape photographer Ansel Adams

Salary: $65,000/year (Salary.com)


Photo Stylist

Someone who helps retouch and shape the “story” of a photograph. Sometimes this is done by just the photographer, but there are specialty photo stylists who are hired by major firms and agencies.

Salary: $41,000/year (Salary.com)


Portrait Artist

Someone who draws, paints, or otherwise depicts a person, animal, or other important thing through art. Materials for this art often include oil and charcoal. Portrait artists are typically independently commissioned for their work.

Salary: Professional portrait artists can charge between $2,000 – $4,000 per work. Of course, the bigger your name and reputation, the more you can charge. 


Poster Artist

Designing posters for films, events, concerts, and more. Poster artistry is a specialized subsection of graphic design.

Salary: $46,000/year (GlassDoor – general graphic designer salary listed)


Press/News Photographer

Someone who photographs individuals, places, and events worthy of news coverage. Some are employed by major television stations while others do news photography as freelance work.

Salary: $48,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


Printmaker

A specialist who creates images on unique surfaces, including wood, plastic, or stone, using specialized techniques. Printmaking is an integral component to many art school curricula.

Salary: $51,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


Private Art Instructor

Someone who teaches art, either in 1-on-1, group, or online course settings. Many art instructors are employed in independent art schools that specialize in holding group classes for adults and especially children.

Salary: $43,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


Retail – Art Store

An individual who works in an art store selling art supplies for public consumption. Many art stores do hire people with art degrees as they are specialized and experienced with the store’s products.

Salary: Retail sales associate salary across all industries is approximately $27,000/year (ZipRecruiter). However, retail managers and directors can make significantly more.


Scenic Designer

Scenic-Design-Example
Glenn Davis, Scenic Design, The Family Series, by Glenn Davis, CC BY-SA 3.0

Creating the scenery for television, film, and stage. Although an art degree is useful here, the majority have specialty degrees in theatre arts according to Wikipedia.  

Salary: $58,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


Silversmith

An artist who designs material out of silver. Silversmithing is a specialty type of metalworking, which is also mentioned in this article.

Salary: $41,000/year (Salary.com)


Sports Equipment Designer

Someone who designs athletic equipment. Think about how shoes are engineered to help you go faster, or how pads are built to better protect you. Another name for this is called sports engineer.

Having a dual background in engineering and art can be massively beneficial for this career path. In fact, a dual degree in those professions can be beneficial for many jobs.

Salary: $80,000/year (Average Salary Survey)


Stained Glass Artist

Someone who colors glass. Most often, the term “stained glass” applies to specially decorated windows in religious institutions. However, many contemporary stained glass artists make work independent of religious affiliation, such as this person.

Salary: $42,000/year (Economic Research Institute)


Storyboard Artist

An artist who creates and/or oversees the visuals for scenes in animated film or television. 

Salary: $72,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


Tattoo Artist

Someone who draws permanent art onto a human body. This practice is most often executed in a specialty parlor.

Salary: $53,000/year (Indeed)


Technical Illustrator

Someone who makes pictures out of advanced mathematical, technological, or scientific concepts intended for quicker comprehension. Technical illustration is abundant in contemporary textbooks.

Salary: $60,000/year (Salary.com


Textile Artist

An artist who manipulates fiber into objects. Examples of objects a fiber artist creates includes baskets, paper, knits, and more. Tapestry art is also a type of textiel art.

Major college programs in fiber art exist at many prominent art schools, including MassArt

Salary: $54,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


Toy Designer

Anyone who creates and designs toys. These specialists are employed by the major toy companies, including Mattel, Lego, and more.

Salary: $58,000/year (PayScale)


Typographer

Someone who arranges typed words to make them easier to read and more pleasing to the eye. Typography is sometimes synonymous with type design, which is the creation of fonts.

Salary: $47,000/year (PayScale)


User Interface Artist

Individual responsible for optimizing the user interface of a video game or other electronic application, such as software. These people make video games and software easier to use and manipulate. As this profession falls into technology, even starting salaries can be excellent.

Salary: $96,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


Video Artist

An artist who uses vintage and contemporary video and audio technology to create original work. Distinct from video game artists and videography, both of which will be covered in this article as well.

Salary: Most video artists are independently employed, thus consistent salary data is not easily found. Video artists who are successful and whose work is shown in galleries can make $70,000/year or more.


Videographer

An individual who films images and stores them on visual media. These individuals are fluent not only in general art, but also video production. Any professional presentation employs a videographer.

Salary: $65,000/year (Salary.com). Many are independent, but have high demand.


Video Game Artist

The visual artist behind a video game. Think about the look, appearance, and feel of your favorite video game characters – modern video games require dozens of video game artists due to their enormous content.

Salary: $69,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


Visual Designer

Someone who specializes in the aesthetic enhancement of a website, app, or other program. As Toptal describes it, visual design “was born out of a mixture of graphic design and user interface (UI) design.”

Salary: $86,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


Visual Effects Artist

Someone who creates special effects most often for film, television, and video games. Major television and video game studios will hire specifically for VFX artists.

Salary: $73,000/year (Study.com)


Wardrobe Supervisor

Someone who looks after anything related to wardrobes in a professional production. 

Salary: $39,000/year (ZipRecruiter)


Website Designer

Someone who creates the visual look of a website. Although most websites use a website designer who does not have an art degree, many major corporate websites do need artistically-informed designers. Requires knowledge of HTML, WordPress/Joomla, javascript, and other modern web technologies.

Salary: $54,000/year (SkillCrush)


Wedding Photographer

Someone who photographs people and events in a wedding. Many wedding photographers are independently employed and can charge significantly more than average photography rates.

Salary: Most people spend $2,000 on wedding photography. Spending up to $3,000 – $5,000 is not uncommon. Because of this, ZipRecruiter says the average yearly salary is $104,000


SOURCES:

https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/commercial-art-gallery-manager

https://kinderart.com/blog/art-degree/

http://www.southeastern.edu/acad_research/programs/cse/career_expl/slu_degree/degrees/visual_arts.html

https://targetcareers.co.uk/career-sectors/arts-and-creative/894045-careers-in-art-and-design

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