The 14 Top Jobs for College Graduates (and How to Get Hired!)

The 14 Top Jobs for College Graduates (and How to Get Hired!)

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1. High School Teacher

Do you find yourself informally tutoring your fellow students? Maybe teaching is for you! High school teachers that specialize in math, science, English as a second language, and special education are in high demand, reports the BLS. Teachers are needed to replace those who retire or move to another industry for personal reasons.

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1. High School Teacher

However, employment growth for public high school teachers may vary according to state and local government budgets. Median entry-level salary: $57,500 Number of entry-level roles available in the US: 22,000 Projected change in employment from 2019 to 2029: 40,100

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2. Software Engineer

Today’s tech-driven world has prompted companies to search for software engineers who know how to navigate the digital landscape. Software developers are expected to be in high demand for the next 10 years, with the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reporting at least 22 percent growth expected. 

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2. Software Engineer

There is an urgent call for fresh graduates to help fill the supply of talent in the local tech industry. Median entry-level salary: $67,751 a yea Number of entry-level roles available in the US: 40,000 Projected change in employment from 2019 to 2029: 316,000

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3. Pharmaceutical Sales

Pharma reps make great money right off the bat selling medicine. However, it can be physically demanding; a lot of travel is required to visit hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices to discuss the benefits of the particular drugs that you’re representing. Pharma sales reps must be knowledgeable in science and good at dealing with other people.

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3. Pharmaceutical Sales

Median entry-level salary: $59,000 Number of entry-level roles available in the US: 22,000

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4. Registered Nurse

If you are passionate about taking care of people, nursing is a solid profession to consider. The demand for registered nurses is expected to rise for a variety of reasons. This includes an increased emphasis on preventive care, rising rates of chronic conditions, and demand for healthcare services from baby boomers as this age group is expected to lead longer and more active lives.

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4. Registered Nurse

Median entry-level salary: $62,400 Number of entry-level roles available in the US: 9,000 Projected change in employment from 2019 to 2029: 221,900

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5. Accountant

According to the BLS, the employment growth of accountants is tied closely to the health of the overall economy. As the economy recovers from the pandemic, fresh graduates will be a welcome addition to many companies that are looking to prepare for growth and have their financial records put in check.

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5. Accountant

Median entry-level salary: $48,000 Number of entry-level roles available in the US: 2,000 Projected change in employment from 2019 to 2029: 61,700

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6. Internet Marketer

Internet marketers are tech-savvy individuals that know how to navigate social media and e-commerce platforms, and who can craft campaigns and marketing strategies that optimize sales. It’s a great job to consider because digital commerce is experiencing rapid expansion. In fact, the BLS reports that the job growth rate of marketers is expected to rise by nine percent by 2024.

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6. Internet Marketer

Median entry-level salary: $57,500 Number of entry-level roles available in the US: 22,000 Projected change in employment from 2019 to 2029: 18,800

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7. Web Designer

Using the internet to read this? We used the internet to write it! It’s unsurprising that more and more people rely on the internet to project their brand. A web designer can help them deliver their products and services, especially with the growing popularity of mobile devices and e-commerce. 

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7. Web Designer

Designers that are particularly skilled at designing websites to respond to different platforms will be particularly crucial in the future. Median entry-level salary: $57,500 Number of entry-level roles available in the US: 22,000 Projected change in employment from 2019 to 2029: 14,000

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8. Engineer

If you are a math and science whiz, engineering is one of the clearest career paths for you! Graduates with a degree in engineering can specialize in many branches, such as civil, chemical, and nuclear. While starting salaries will vary slightly depending on the branch, virtually all jobs pay well because of the technical knowledge and communication skills required.

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8. Engineer

Median entry-level salary: $57,698 Projected change in employment from 2019 to 2029: 5,500

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9. Administrative Assistant

Administrative assistants are needed in almost all businesses. This position is a great way to explore an industry you are curious about or get insight into how companies work. Long-term assistants often land jobs working for high-ranking CEOs, movie producers, or attorneys. 

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9. Administrative Assistant

Due to the responsibilities associated with supporting these roles, these positions can offer significant salary growth later in your career. Median entry-level salary: $35,400 Number of entry-level roles available in the US: 17,000

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10. Financial Analyst

Financial analysts are in demand across the finance industry. The specifics of your responsibilities will depend on your employer, but most analysts start out analyzing mathematical models, preparing reports, and analyzing data. It’s the ideal job for fresh graduates who are good at math.

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10. Financial Analyst

Median entry-level salary: $59,300 Number of entry-level roles available in the US: 4,000 Projected change in employment from 2019 to 2029: 26,800

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11. Project Manager

Businesses that are poised to rise from the economic downturn are looking for project managers that can help lead projects for future-facing goals, such as digital transformation and artificial intelligence. Fresh graduates may need to start out as assistants and then work their way up to a promotion and a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

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11. Project Manager

Statistics for this field are hard to come by because the BLS does not recognize project managers as a separate occupation. However, there’s no denying the rise in demand and the good salary for this job role. Median entry-level salary: $51,000

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12. Account Manager

Account managers are responsible for improving the relationship of businesses with their clients. They help ensure that people continue to patronize their company’s products and services, building a loyal audience that contributes to the longevity of their operations. 

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12. Account Manager

Account managers often find themselves traveling to visit clients and attend conferences to build their network, and are often assigned to advertising, marketing, sales, and finance departments. Median entry-level salary: $41,854 Projected change in employment from 2019 to 2029: 15,400

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13. Auditor

An auditor reviews and audits financial documents of a business to identify any errors. Auditors might also evaluate a business's payroll and taxes to ensure they are meeting all state and federal regulations. 

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13. Auditor

Auditors have great mathematical and analytical skills that assist them in understanding the financial needs of a business while also evaluating the current finances . Median entry-level salary: $67,952 per year

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14. Recruiter

Recruiters evaluate the management and employee needs of an organization and then look for employees to fill those needs. Recruiters typically have good interview and interpersonal skills that are beneficial when networking and reaching out to potential candidates.

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14. Recruiter

College students typically have the opportunity to learn the different elements of a corporation, assisting them during their recruiting efforts. Median entry-level salary: $69,815

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Get as Much Experience as Possible

While your academic record is definitely important, companies also highly value the experience gained through internships and volunteering. This is because it shows what you are passionate about, your initiative to enter the organizations, and the real-life work you’ve experienced by participating in these activities.

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Start Searching Early

Starting early gives you an opportunity to familiarize yourself with applications, interviews, and tests. This gives you an idea of how job hunting works, helps you build self-confidence, and teaches you how to market yourself better.

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Polish Your LinkedIn

Even though there are so many new ways to market yourself online, LinkedIn remains the platform of choice for business and networking. While it may seem difficult to establish a presence at first, remember that this is a long-term investment. You’ll enjoy updating your profile as you progress through your career path and sharing these updates with others in your network. 

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Polish Your LinkedIn

In turn, potential employers and recruiters will have a reference point for you in the future.

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Expand Your Search and Be Open to New Opportunities

Your first job after graduating is most likely going to be a stepping stone to something even better. People rarely experience the growth and culture that they are suited for in this first position, so your priority should be to learn in this new role. Find out what you enjoy doing on a regular basis and see if there are opportunities to pursue a career in other industries or companies that excite you.

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Be Proactive, and Get in Front of Employers

Don’t be shy! Searching for a job is the best time to step out of your comfort zone. Have faith in your college degree and your personal capabilities, and reach out to businesses that you are interested in. Companies love someone who takes initiative and is passionate about their work and being proactive about starting conversations is a great way to showcase these values. 

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