Five Majors That Guarantee Employment

Want the perfect job offer before you’ve even crossed the stage at graduation? That’s every student’s dream — and it’s possible. These majors will prepare you for well-paying careers with steady growth or constant demand. Let’s take a look at each one – and the doors they’ll open for you.

Nursing

Nursing puts you on the front lines of health care. You should be comfortable with the sciences since you’ll take courses like anatomy, chemistry, microbiology, and nutrition. Your major will also include hands-on experience through supervised clinical internships. After you pass a national exam, you’ll be ready to practice in any setting. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing predicts nursing shortages over the next few years, so employers will be eager to hire. And it’s not uncommon for health care employers to offer sign-on bonuses, so you shouldn’t have to wait long for a well-paying job offer.

Accounting or Finance

A career in accounting or finance will always be a safe bet. In fact, the National Association of Colleges and Employers, or NACE, named these two fields the top two in-demand degrees for 2018. Every organization needs an accounting department. Plus, with the complexity of financial investing, analysts and advisers are in high demand. You’ll take classes like accounting, financial markets and investing, microeconomics, macroeconomics, and economic theory. Your degree could also position you for a job as an actuary, a well-paying role in the insurance industry where you analyze the cost of risk.

Computer Science

You’ll be in hot demand by choosing computer science or a related major. Whether you want to be a software engineer, app developer, or systems administrator, computer science will give you the right foundation. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that jobs in this field are projected to grow 13 percent in the next decade, faster than most occupations. To make yourself extra marketable, take classes on cloud computing, big data, and information security.

Business Administration

Business administration offers highly practical skills students can apply in many different industries. This adaptability makes it easier for graduates to find work after college. Business administration was even the third most in-demand major among employers in 2018, according to NACE. You’ll learn how to analyze a business’ strengths, manage operations, and improve profits. Add an accounting or marketing minor to boost your resume. There are also majors that combine business administration with a growing industry, like construction or health care.

American Studies

Surprised? This liberal arts degree focuses on American history, society, and culture. An American Studies major is attractive to many employers because it requires students to do in-depth research and analyze critical issues. Developing these skills prepares you for work in law, journalism, academics, government, business, and other industries. Business publisher Kiplinger even identified the field as a top major for career success. Pair this major with an internship in your desired field and you’ll have a strong edge in the job market.

Above all, it’s important to consider your natural skills and personality. Will you enjoy a career in this field for many years? Be sure to balance practical concerns with your quality of life.

Consider taking electives in other areas of interest or add a minor to give you more flexibility. That way, you’ve got a solid major to ensure great job prospects, but you’ve still opened the door to other opportunities that interest you. Choose wisely and good luck!