You know the battle. You need experience to get a job, but you need a job to get experience. It’s a conundrum many college students face when trying to start their careers. Searching through endless job postings that require at least two years of experience can be frustrating, but don’t get discouraged!

Here’s the good news. As a college student or recent grad, you’ve probably already developed a lot of the knowledge and qualifications to ready yourself for the professional world. Even without prior job experience, a college student can still create a strong impactful resume that gets employers’ attention. In fact, Career Alley confirms that most employers want to see evidence of leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills. Luckily, these are all things you can prove you’ve developed in college.

Ready to show hiring managers that you have what it takes to land your dream job? Here’s some handy college resume tips and examples to help.

1. Choose a well-organized resume format

In the past, classic resume formats followed a boring standard layout with limited flexibility. In today’s market, pertinent information and good design have set the standard for catching employers’ attention. Why not stand out from other candidates with a catchy design? If you're looking to get your creative juices going and develop a resume format that stuns while also fitting your aesthetic, Canva has some very cool designs to get you started. Check out this one by Stella.

According to Indeed, “The best resume formats are well organized with only the most relevant information and should make efficient use of blank space to avoid clutter.” Stella has made great use of the one-page space, even including a photo to showcase her unique style and personality. She’s also included a section labeled “Relevant Experience and Training” in place of the traditional “Job Experience” to emphasize her involvement in school teams and committees that have provided her with applicable skills in lieu of an official job.

Keep in mind that if you include a photo on your resume, it should reflect the style and dress for your industry. If you’re entering a more formal career, be sure to adjust your resume accordingly. You can still have a great design while keeping it professional, like in Avery’s resume below. As a new face in the accounting and finance world, Avery wants to make an impact on employers while still representing himself as a reputable professional. His resume stands out yet also does a great job of fitting the expectations and standards for his career.

2. Create a summary focused on the employer’s needs

A summary, objective, or “About Me” statement is an excellent way to introduce yourself and quickly advertise your qualifications. This statement should be brief (1-2 sentences) and focus on your relevant experience as well as your career-developed skills. It’s also a great idea to tailor your summary according to the employer’s needs, rather than your own. If the employer mentions specific desires in their job posting, figure out a way to incorporate the highest priority ones into your statement. Not only does this show the employer that you’ve paid attention to what they want, but also that you're responsive and willing to meet their needs.

3. Prioritize education vs. experience

For college students or recent graduates, it can be difficult to decide whether to list your education or experience first. Notice in Jonathan’s resume below, he lists his education history first to showcase his student activity and accolades, like the Best Student Web Developer Award. That’s because his educational accomplishments demonstrate more enthusiasm and mastery of his technical abilities than his limited experience as a freelance web developer – with just two work projects completed.

Not sure whether to list your education or experience section first? Figure out which one allows you to present your most pertinent and remarkable information. If your main selling points come from your college experience, then be sure to list your education section first. Then you can get really creative in emphasizing your academic history and accomplishments, as discussed next.

4. Get resourceful in your education section

Don’t feel intimidated if your degree doesn’t exactly align with the job you’re applying. By showing a commitment to your education, you can still demonstrate the qualities employers are looking for like strong work ethic, dedication, leadership, commitment, and desire to improve.

According to Live Career, “Not only should the education section of your resume be concise, but it should also relate to the job you are seeking.” This is a good time to brainstorm and make a list of your best student accomplishments. Any relevant honors or academic recognition, coursework, activities, or other achievements obtained during your education should be included to build up what may be lacking in your experience section. You can even add in relevant coursework and school projects you’ve completed to establish your training qualifications and special areas of study, particularly if your major or minor doesn’t readily indicate it. 

5. Keep your experience section relevant

Employers don’t need to know about the summer job you had at a pizza shop or about that one time you sold perfume at the mall. Your experience section shouldn’t be limited to just paid jobs nor does it need to include every job you’ve ever had. Hiring managers will be looking to see whether you have job experience that’s relevant to the position they are hiring.

In Jonathan’s resume above, notice how he only includes his work as a Freelance Web Developer. This is his only experience that’s relevant to the positions for which he’s applying. Jonathan doesn't need to include his part-time job stocking shelves at Costco or his sales associate position at Champ’s during his first year in college. Not only can that distract from his qualifications, but it can clutter up his resume and make it seem like he doesn’t understand the employer’s wants or needs.

If you have very limited or no work history at all, you can change the name of this section from “Work Experience” to “Relevant Experience.” Then add in internships, volunteer work, leadership experience, extracurricular activities or any other related involvement or training you can think of to compensate for your lack of workplace experience.

6. Include a skills or strengths section

Including a skills, key strengths, or competencies section on a resume is a great way to let employers know what hard skills and soft skills you bring to the table. Indeed defines hard skills as abilities specific to the job (like proficiency in technical software systems) and soft skills as abilities that can be applied in any job (like problem-solving and time management).

So how do you know which of your many talents to list on your resume? According to The Balance Careers, “Some skills are in high demand for employers hiring college graduates, and there are other skills that specifically relate to the job for which you're applying.” Try reviewing several job descriptions specific to the industry or role you’re applying. Be sure to focus on the key desires and requirements employers emphasize for candidates. Jot down a list of the ones that stand out, then review how their desired skills match your core competencies. From there, you can decide which key strengths to include on your resume.

Check out Ed Stewart’s “Key Strengths” section in the below resume. Notice how he only lists hard skills or technical abilities. This is a good move for Ed as he’s positioning himself as a Search Engine Marketing expert and targeting companies looking to hire someone with a technical approach to their marketing strategy. He also does a great job of keeping his bulleted section short and scannable. Bulleted lists should only include about 5-7 items, so be sure to add only the most important and relevant skills to your resume. Anything that you feel you’ve left off can be included in your cover letter.

7. Always submit a custom cover letter

Did you know around 250 resumes are submitted for each corporate job listing and only about five candidates will be called for an interview? According to Pongo, “without a cover letter, you're relying solely on your resume to make a big enough impact that the hiring manager will call you back for an interview.” As an applicant just starting out in the job market, you’ll need a good cover letter to make up for the lack of experience on your resume.

By submitting a custom cover letter specific to the company and role for which you’re applying, you can let employers know why they should hire you over a candidate with more experience. This is your chance to tell them that you’re a fast learner, hard worker, or willing to go the extra mile to gain experience and to help their company succeed. Don’t count on your resume to get you through the competition. By including a cover letter, you’ll get noticed quickly, show you’ve put in extra effort, and demonstrate how much you want the job. You only have 7.4 seconds to make an impression, so make it good!

8. Get a friend to proofread

After staring at the same resume and cover letter for hours, it can be easy to gloss over your own writing and mistakes that a fresh pair of eyes can detect. After completing these documents, try a few proofreading tricks like reading them slowly and out loud. Then, ask for help! You’d be surprised at what someone else may pick up on. TopResume states, “Have a friend — preferably one who writes for a living or studied English in college — review your resume for contextual spelling mistakes, missing punctuation, and inconsistencies in your resume format.” Once all final details are confirmed, then you’re ready to apply. Good luck!

Want to check out more college resume and cover letter examples? Zety has some excellent templates and guides. And check out this blog if you need help obtaining reference letters. At Pearson Accelerated Pathways, we love helping students on the journey to their brightest future and best career. We’d love to help you create your own college experience that develops the background qualifications and skills needed to land your dream job!

Meet Roland

Roland is a 32-year-old father of three young girls and the Operations Supervisor for the New York Public Transit facilities. Currently, he’s managing the facility and maintenance staff for two boroughs in NYC: Manhattan and Queens. Although he’s never completed his bachelor’s degree, he loves his job and has made it this far in his career by being a go-getter and a hard worker.

But now he’s hit a bump in the road.

His boss is retiring in a year, and Roland is up for an Associate Director promotion that earns almost double his current salary. To qualify, he’ll need to complete his bachelor’s degree as quickly as possible to “look good on paper.” The company knows how hard Roland works, but without meeting the education qualifications for the promotion, he’ll be surpassed by someone with less experience.

Fortunately, Roland already has 42 college credits that he’s earned over the past 10 years. His prior credits come from different places including a trade school, a community college, and The City University of New York (CUNY). While he enjoys learning, Roland has always encountered difficulty finishing his degree at in-person schools. It seems every time he got started, life got in the way: his wife got pregnant and sick, they moved to be closer to family, Covid started, etc.

Now he understands what it’ll take for him to complete his degree as fast as possible.

This is Roland’s wish list:

• He needs to be able to start school right away (no traditional college semesters)

• All courses have to be offered completely online (not in-person)

• He must be able to take courses during downtime at his job (no set class times)

• His college must accept as much of his previous credit as possible (no tight transfer restrictions)

Time to call in the experts!

To fulfill these requirements, Roland turned to the academic counselors at Pearson Accelerated Pathways, trusting their expertise in finding degree paths with freedom and flexibility. By gathering his transcripts from each school, Roland was able to help his academic counselor to review his prior credits and see where they could transfer. Although Roland’s previous studies mostly focused on engineering and architecture, he also had a good deal of general education credits completed.

Roland now wants to major in Business or Project Management to better fit the promotion qualifications at his job. His academic counselor was able to sort through thousands of possibilities and narrow down five degree options in a side-by-side college options report customized to show Roland the degrees that would best fit his wish list. Here’s a preview of three of the six colleges they reviewed.

After going over the best options with his academic counselor, Roland chose Excelsior College based on a combined factor of price and prior credit acceptance. He was able to start courses right away, and with tons of hard work, determination, success coaching, and tips on staying sane while working full time in college, Roland exceeded his completion date and earned his bachelor’s degree in under two years!

As a result, Roland has fully qualified for the promotion to Associate Director at his job and no longer has to worry about hitting a glass ceiling or feeling like his lack of a degree will hold him back from future promotions. He also gained a solid foundation in budgeting, planning, business operations, and management from his degree that will be beneficial as he moves into upper management. Congrats, Roland!

It’s Not Too Late to Go Back to College

Feeling stuck in your career because you still haven’t finished your degree? You’re not alone. According to a Pew Research study, 35 percent of workers say they don’t feel they have the education and training needed to get ahead at work. They’re not wrong either. In fact, there are 57 percent more job opportunities for those with college degrees than without.

That’s why we’ve developed a new way for workers to experience college. By providing flexible start dates and self-paced learning options, Pearson Accelerated Pathways has helped thousands of busy adults and parents get ahead in their career by finishing their degree while they work. Unlike traditional universities, we allow you to start learning right away – not on a rigid semester schedule.

Our flexible online courses can be started anytime, anywhere—even from your job—and with no assignment due dates. You can learn, complete quizzes, and even take tests according to your schedule. With loads of success stories from working adults and parents, our goal is always to help you earn your degree and move up the ladder to your brightest future.

Ready to join our success stories?

Don’t get held back at your job or surpassed by someone who has less experience than you but more education. By demonstrating a willingness to take steps to move up at your job, including expanding your education, management will begin to view you as a prime candidate for greater responsibility and pay. It’s never too late to take the initiative and finish your degree. With non-semester learning schedules, we’ve helped thousands of busy people just like you earn their degree while working and raising families. Click here to learn more about how we can help!

Feeling stressed and overwhelmed by the amount of research needed to attend college? With so many degree options, costs, and requirements for each school, the search process can feel like a never-ending battle with a thousand unanswered questions. Do I meet the admission requirements? How much will it cost? Will my past credits transfer?

Where do I even start?

Take a deep breath because expert help is on the way! At Pearson Accelerated Pathways, we do all the college research for you… for free. Our academic counselors have tons of expertise, resources, and inside knowledge to help you narrow down the best college options based on your specific goals.

We Build a College Options Report – Just for You

Just provide us with some basic info and our academic counselors will reach out to learn more about your situation. Our goal is to gather the most pertinent info needed to determine your best college and degree options. We’ll factor in things like:

• What majors interest you, or do you want to wait to decide?

• How many hours per week you can study?

• What do you want out of your college experience?

• Have you’ve already earned any college credits?

• If so, where can they transfer?

From there, just sit back and relax as we crunch the numbers on tuitions, degrees, fees, and much more. We'll conduct an intensive college research process based specifically on your data and circumstance, and then you’ll get the final results. Your academic counselor will send you a super organized and helpful College Options Report – custom built just for you.

What's a College Options Report?

The College Options Report is a side-by-side degree plan of the best colleges we found to fit your goals, schedule, budget, transferrable credit, and more. The first page will look something like this:

Page 1 (click here to enlarge image)

Your academic counselor will carefully walk you through each page of the report to make sure you understand all of your options. In particular, they’ll spend lots of time going over the chart on Page 2 (below), where you’ll see a complete breakdown of each school by degree, cost, transferable credit, and more. As you examine this college comparison, you’ll be able to consider important factors like:

• Which of the degrees can I obtain the fastest?

• Which of the schools costs the least?

• Which of the options accepts most of my prior credit?

• Which degree can I finish completely online?

Page 2 (click here to enlarge)

After that, you’ll see a page-by-page outline for each college (like in the image below). This gives you an overview of each college by tuition, fees, books, and—most importantly—the potential savings through our Global Digital Classroom (GDC). The GDC is Pearson Accelerated Pathways’ online learning platform. It’s how we are able to offer you lots of courses at a much lower cost per credit than traditional colleges. The GDC gives you extra freedom to pursue courses that align with your interests while enjoying our cost savings and flexibility. Best of all, GDC courses are fully accredited and guaranteed to transfer to your final college of choice!

Page 3 (click here to enlarge)

How Does This Help Me?

With the College Options Report, you’ll be able to make comparisons based on the most important factors to you. That may be cost, degree, major, college reputation, time to complete, prior credit transfers, or a number of factors combined.

In the above example, let's say you choose to go with Maryville University based on the cost savings. You’ll see that we can save you $32,850 on your total degree cost by offering 25-27 courses through our Global Digital Classroom (GDC). This savings also includes the discounted tuition you’ll receive at Maryville University for transferring from Pearson Accelerated Pathways. That’s a lot of savings – cutting the total cost of your degree almost in half!

In addition, Pearson Accelerated Pathways offers flexible pay-as-you-go plans. Unlike one-size-fits all colleges, we work with your budget to customize payment options. Also unlike traditional colleges, you can get started on online classes right away. No waiting for a semester to begin or working around a set college schedule. We make sure payments and schedules are all on your terms!

We’re Here When You’re Ready

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the number of choices involved in doing college research, let us help... for absolutely no charge! We love being a guiding light for students in a world of noise and clutter. Our specialty is helping students identify their best college options and setting them on the right education track for their lifestyle, budget, and schedule.

Ready to get your free College Options Report? Get started here!

Many students are experiencing burnout. It’s a common-enough situation in the best of times. But right now, students are struggling extra hard to stay focused on school and on their ultimate goals. If you’re looking for tips to help you stay focused and achieve back-to-school success, you’re in the right place.

I sat down with our Success Coach Manager, Peter Marshall, to chat about trends he’s seeing with students. “I think we’re just starting to see the effects of Delta. There is this underlying fear with students right now,” explains Marshall.

When so much is in flux, like it has been with the pandemic the past several years, it can be difficult to buckle down and do what needs to be done for your education. The good news is that Marshall has some excellent tips to help students get back on track (and stay on track) even through difficult times.

1. Practice Good Time Management

Marshall explains that protecting your study time is crucial to going back to school. This is particularly true for working students that may have many other competing priorities. “It all starts on Mondays,” says Marshall. “You’ll see this trick a lot with personal trainers too. If you want to really stick with something and make it a priority you should always make time for it early in the week.” The adage, “Never miss a Monday” applies to your schoolwork and not just your weight training sessions. Set aside some time early in the week to get started on your schoolwork. It will set the tone for the rest of your week.

2. Make a Place for School

A good study area is more helpful than you know. Just like having a dedicated fitness area (at a gym or at home) improves your likelihood of sticking to your exercise habit, having a dedicated spot in your home for studying improves your chances of getting study time in regularly and sets you up for success. A study space also gives you a place where you know you can focus on school and get into a routine – i.e., “When I sit down at this desk I study.” According to our partner school, Maryville University, “A study space can be a home office, attic nook, kitchen table, or – for those who have limited living space – an area in a bedroom or living room. Creating a dedicated space may be an ideal choice if you are easily distracted and have a hard time focusing amid other distractions, such as the television, smartphone notifications, and social media accounts." Marshall gives these tips for designing the right study space, “It is better to create a space that is not in a high traffic area where kids are running around, or your roommates are binging Netflix. It’s also good to keep all your materials you need in this space.”  You can think of this space as always ready for study time. You can store your books here when you are not in class, you can attend virtual classes here, and you can make sure you always have a pack of pencils here.

3. Give Yourself a Quick Win

Marshall often coaches older students who can be daunted by the thought of going back to school. “Giving these students a quick win to show them they can make progress can be a real game changer in the beginning,” says Marshall. Marshall recommends starting with a simple class. New students with Accelerated Pathways receive a complimentary StudySMART course that many students enjoy because it eases them back into school. StudySMART and an additional course called Student Success are available to students through Accelerated Pathways. Both provide valuable information for all students but especially those who may have been away from school for a while or students who need an extra boost to get going strong. Again, using the analogy of exercise, many personal trainers will start with a quick easy workout the first time. The point is not to burn 1,000 calories or lift enormous weights in your first session. The point is to show new exercisers that it can be done. That they can ease into a new way of life. The same goes for returning to school.

4. Break It Down

When confronted with a big, audacious goal, it must be broken down into easy actionable steps. Many top business leaders (and leaders in general) live by this philosophy. Taken even further, to achieve big things, start by thinking small. For example, if you want to go back to school, start with a goal of talking to an admissions counselor. Breaking down your big goals into small manageable chunks gives you a place to start. It also de-stresses the situation. Big goals tend to be paralyzing. It’s like you’re confronted with too many possibilities. By creating small actionable steps, you remove the paralyzing force and give yourself the push you need to move forward with more confidence.

5. Take Breaks

Research shows that taking purposeful breaks when doing schoolwork can improve your ability study. Marshall recommends the Pomodoro method to his students. “Every 25 minutes, take a 5-minute break,” he says. While the Pomodoro method calls for a very specific schedule of work to break time, you can find a rhythm that works for you. Maybe studying for an hour is more feasible for you. Great! You may want to consider increasing your break to 10 minutes to accommodate for that extra time. Many students find that having scheduled study breaks can keep them focused more reliably for their designated “study time.” Try it!

6. Hit Your Milestones

As you’re goal setting, don’t be afraid to really map out what both short- and long-term goals look like for your education. Give yourself some deadlines. Do you want to finish that bachelor’s degree you started in the next two years? Well, work backwards from that date and give yourself some milestones along the way. This can help you keep your sights not only on your short-term goals but on your long-term success too. Making your goals timebound is essential if you are a fan of the S.M.A.R.T. goals method, which helps people set very defined actionable goals and then gives themselves a deadline for achievement. We cover setting S.M.A.R.T. goals in this post on continuous learning. Setting milestones functions in much the same way.

So, whether you are a high school student jumping straight to college courses or you are returning to school after quite some time away, these tips should help you hit the ground running. College isn’t easy and it does require a lot of self-discipline. But that’s where Accelerated Pathways comes in. Our coaches are trained to help students—no matter what stage of life they are currently in—stick to and achieve their goals. Reach out for more information on how Accelerated Pathways can help you overcome burnout and use these strategies and more to achieve your educational goals.

Before making any career decision, it’s always a good idea to ask yourself, “Will this career be in demand? And if so, how much can I earn and what education will I need?” With thousands of options available, it can be difficult to narrow down a career path that's right for you. Fortunately, we’ve compiled a list of five careers that have great demand and excellent earning potential. We hope this will help you on your educational journey and increase your chances of making a good career decision.

1. Cyber security

Did you know the unemployment rate for cyber security professionals has been 0% since 2016! As more businesses rely on data and as cyberattacks become more frequent, demand for cyber security expertise is projected to grow 32% up to 2028, compared with growth of 12% for other computer occupations.

Cyber security encompasses everything that relates to the protection of data and networks. Employment can be found in a wide range of industries and focuses on a number of specialties. Information security analysts plan and carry out security measures; forensic roles deal with the aftermath of data breaches; penetration testers identify vulnerabilities to help prevent breaches; security architects establish and maintain network security; and the CIO sits at the top tier of the industry, overseeing all of this.

For each career pathway there’s a lot of technical knowledge and many certifications to acquire to demonstrate mastery, so it’s best for aspiring cyber-crime fighters to research each specialty early and get on track for the role that best fits their skillset and goals.

Here are a few specialties and their earning potential:

• Information security analyst ($51K-$108K)

• Forensic computer analyst ($49K-$118K)

• Penetration & vulnerability tester ($58K-$136K)

• Cyber security architect ($86K-$160K)

• Chief information security officer ($106K-$200K+)

Study options available

Most entry-level cyber security positions require only an undergraduate degree (which degree may not matter if you have the right skills and certifications), but a graduate degree will open the door to more senior positions and quicker advancement. Increasingly, schools are offering degree programs specific to cyber security that students can pursue rather than the more broad computer science.

No matter what degree a candidate boasts, their prospects may be further improved by adding professional certifications to their résumé. In fact, many job postings will require that prospects come to the table with at least a foundational certification or will ask employees to acquire further credentials for career development.

Here’s some insider advice from Charles Poff, CISO, Salespoint, “Anyone interested in cybersecurity needs to get a degree, as going to college helps you to learn how to learn. No one in IT or security has all the answers, but what defines us as IT and security folks is how we figure out problems. You learn how to become a lifelong learner in college and develop new skills on the job as you fine tune your natural gifts.”

Interested in this promising career? Check out our Cyber Security fact sheet.

2. Internet of Things

The demand for smart devices increased 16% in 2020, and with it the need for Internet of Things expertise in consumer electronics, transportation, manufacturing, utilities, agriculture, and healthcare has grown. Bachelor’s degrees in the subject are only just starting to be introduced, but there are other programs and skills that can lead to success in this career.

The IoT is the network of physical objects that are embedded with sensors or software to connect and exchange data with the internet. This includes products such as wearable fitness trackers, home automation devices, self-driving cars, and much more. The demand for these devices is staggering, with an estimated 35 billion devices connected worldwide in 2021—a 16% increase in just one year. Although investment and development may have slowed during quarantine, COVID-19 is set to spark further growth. More time at home means more people connecting their homes for health, wellness, and efficiency, and the healthcare industry is leveraging smart tech for tasks like early detection and contact tracing.

While the IoT demands a specialized skill set, career potential in the field covers a wide range of options since it is not an insular industry. It fulfills the demands of other distinct industries, opening up job prospects in IoT sectors of consumer electronics, transportation, manufacturing, utilities, agriculture, and healthcare.

Here are a few specialties and their earning potential:

• IoT developer ($59K-$74K)

• Data scientist ($67K-$135K)

• IoT solutions engineer ($80K-$120K)

• IoT architect ($98K-$190K)

• Cyber security engineer ($94K-$320K)

Study options available

While there are only a couple US colleges offering a bachelor’s degree specific to IoT, the rise in options internationally indicates that number will likely increase soon. In the meantime, for many entry-level roles, a bachelor’s in information technology, computer science/engineering, or software development may suffice.

Learners can set themselves up for IoT job success by researching the competencies expected by their dream employers and planning their course work accordingly. Master’s degrees, micro-masters, and graduate certificates specific to the IoT are increasingly common. These programs may go by alternate labels such as “embedded systems” or “cyber-physical systems”. At all levels (engineers and architects in particular), professional certifications may be a requirement.

Here’s some insider advice from Home Security List, “Without a doubt, the versatile nature of the IoT is one of the numerous reasons it is due to add such significant value to the economy. IoT devices can be implemented in every industry, through adoption, development or both. In this respect, you should learn to collaborate with people from distinct sectors. Make sure your training is diverse so that you can apply it to numerous businesses.”

Interested in this promising career? Check out our Internet of Things fact sheet.

3. Diversity & Inclusion

In the past few years there’s been a growing demand for equality and representation. As a result, more companies are championing the need for diversity and inclusion (D&I) in the workplace and hiring specialists to help them meet that need. In a 2018 column for Inclusion at Work, Jennifer Kim noted that taking on a D&I role comes with significant risk, as they’re often the first cut in an economic downturn. This prediction held true at the onset of COVID-19 when job postings plummeted. However, just months later, the US saw widespread civil rights protests in the wake of George Floyd’s death, and D&I job postings did a quick about-face.

There’s hope right now that roles supporting D&I are newly focused on action over awareness. Examples include GE, which pledged $10 million toward racial justice and inclusivity initiatives, and Salesforce, which committed to increasing Black representation, especially in leadership. The rebounding of job postings is also a positive sign of change. Each of the roles included below supports employers’ mission of attracting, developing, retaining, and supporting the advancement of a diverse workforce.

Here are a few specialties and their earning potential:

• Chief diversity officer ($75K-$211K)

• D&I director ($89K-$120K)

• D&I manager ($55K-$124K)

• D&I specialist ($46K-$118K)

• D&I coordinator ($25K-$102K)

Study options available

Options for a degree specific to D&I are limited, but available. Some institutions, such as Tufts University and The University of Kansas, have developed master’s degrees in D&I leadership. However, most D&I job applicants come from a wide range of backgrounds. Some studied and worked in business or human resources management, choosing to specialize along the way. Some transitioned from other areas of their organization, driven by passion and seeing the need for this role. For them and others, there is a proliferation of graduate certificate and online course options that support D&I development.

It’s worth noting that while education demands are high for these roles (45.6% hold master’s degrees), transferable skills and a demonstrable interest in social justice should not be discounted as qualifying factors. A number of institutions, such as Emporia State University, offer interdisciplinary degrees in subjects like ethnic, gender, and identity studies that will give candidates a social science foundation and help them stand out in the hiring process

Here’s some insider advice from the Allison Dingler, Global DI&B Program Manager, Indeed, “My number one advice for folks looking to get into diversity, inclusion, and belonging (DI&B) is to look at what they can do right now, within their sphere of influence, to create an inclusive culture. DI&B is a vast field, needing a multitude of skills and backgrounds. Consider how your skills translate to DI&B work and start doing that work before you ever have a DI&B title.”

Interested in this promising career? Check out our diversity & inclusion fact sheet.

4. Wine and beer

The wine and beer industries are not new. People have been studying the production and use of fermented beverages for thousands of years. Throughout much of that time, education came through apprenticeship and then certification. Historically, the wine and beer industries have been the domain of families and smaller communities. Now, with a myriad of options for self-education, winemaking and brewing have become accessible to a broader group, and many are turning this passion into a career.

Universities are starting to offer degrees to expand the possibilities for job candidates in these industries. Most who seek careers in beer and wine are driven by passion. While some start young — either in the labor-intensive lower tiers of the industry or by seeking formal training right away — others are career-changers looking to turn their hobby into a profession.

Earnings that follow can vary greatly. Working for a small winery or craft brewery is not going to net as much as working for a major brand, but as health and sustainability trends move consumers toward quality over quantity, the number of boutique producers entering the market is increasing. More new producers means more opportunities for those open to both the uncertainty and potential of a start-up.

Here are a few specialties and their earning potential:

• Winemaker ($85K-$150K)

• Sommelier ($55K-$155K)

• Vineyard manager ($50K-$85K)

• Brewmaster ($40K-$100K)

Study options available

There are many ways to specialize in the wine and beer industries, and expectations for applicants’ experience and background will vary. Those willing to start at the lowest tier of wine and beer work—in the field or in the cellar—will learn a lot on the job. At the business and sales end, industry knowledge is crucial, but traditional degrees often suffice.

Those looking to specialize as brewmasters, enologists, or sommeliers, however, are going to need certifications and proven dedication to understanding the science, taste, and history of their product. University degrees are increasingly a way to gain the necessary academic foundation. There are numerous bachelors and a few masters options in the US, and even some PhDs for those willing to go international.

Here’s some insider advice from Teri Fahrendorf, “My hunch is that as time goes on, the educational requirements of microbrewers in the US will increase, if for no other reason than that the demand will increase. One microbrewery owner I spoke with recently declared he will never again hire another brewer without formal training... or a lot of experience.”

Interested in this promising career? Check out our wine and beer fact sheet.

5. Data science

Data is everywhere and in everything we do, and with humans producing 2.5 quintillion bytes of data every day, the need for data scientists is rising. The high demand for this role makes it a competitive field that requires intensive education and skills. Love it or fear it, big data is everywhere, and it’s about more than just serving up unnervingly targeted ads. In addition to shaping the retail industry, big data is a cornerstone of healthcare, banking, agriculture, government, transportation, and energy. It’s estimated that humans produce 2.5 quintillion bytes of data daily. That figure is only going up, which has led to the growing demand for data scientists.

As with any young industry, the job description for a data scientist can be vague and may vary greatly by industry or company. Generally, data scientists have mixed expertise in computer science, mathematics, and trend spotting. They’re needed to create algorithms, identify trends, organize data, produce insights that drive business decisions, and design machines that can automate output based on data. “Data scientist” has held the top spot on Glassdoor’s list of “50 Best Jobs in America” since 2016 and remains in high demand with continued projected growth.

Here are a few specialties and their earning potential:

• Data analyst ($44K-$86K)

• Data architect ($77K-$156K)

• Data engineer ($65K-$132K)

• Statistician ($52K-$109K)

• Machine learning engineer ($76K-$154K)

Study options available

Compared to other emerging careers, data science has fairly rigorous academic requirements for entry. A competitive field means employers can make higher demands for education, and the array of technical skills required will demand intensive study, whether formal or informal. A good starting point is a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, IT, or statistics. Increasingly, degrees specific to data science are available as well. This also goes for master’s degrees, which are held by 73% of professionals in the field. As many as 38% have a PhD. However, those with a more mixed background still have a chance.

Since the field is new, many of its leaders didn’t have today’s focused degree options. Applicants may stand out if they can demonstrate that they’ve supplemented coursework with real-world projects, if they have additional expertise in the job’s broader industry (i.e., healthcare, marketing, etc.), or if they can show that they’ve targeted their studies to fit the demands of the role they’re looking to take on.

Here’s some insider advice from Robert Chang, Data @Airbnb, “Instead of fixating on a single technique or programming language, ask yourself, what is the best set of tools or techniques that will help you to solve your problem? Focus on problem solving, and the tools will come naturally.”

Interested in this promising career? Check out our data science fact sheet.

For a more comprehensive and in-depth look at additional emerging careers, get our free eBook with up-to-date information and useful charts to help you with your future career decision. If you’re ready to start your journey toward a fast-growing profession with the right education and skills, we can help! At Pearson Accelerated Pathways, our academic advisors are experts at putting you on the right track to become qualified for your dream job. We help you to customize your college experience, choose your learning style, choose your pace, and study from anywhere. All you need is an internet connection. Learn more about our college planning process.

Congrats! You finally decided on a college and a major. But now you’re wondering how to determine what level of education you want to achieve. Will a bachelor’s degree be enough for your career and educational goals, or do you need to go on to gain a master’s or higher?

How do you know what level of education you need?

We’ve compiled 10 questions you should ask to ensure you’re making the best college decision for your schedule, budget, and future career.

1. What field do you want to go into?

Hard work will get you far no matter what degree you have, but there are some jobs you just cannot get without a certain credential.

Here’s a general guide to what jobs or fields are typical for each educational level:

Doctorate:

• Higher education

• Academic research

• STEM research

• Law

• Healthcare

Master’s:

• Education

• Social sciences

• STEM fields

• Healthcare

• Business/Finance

• Humanities

• Political science

• Criminal justice

Bachelor’s:

• Social sciences

• STEM fields

• Healthcare

• Business/Finance

• K-12 Education

• Humanities

• Political Science

2. What job do you want?

Once you know what field interests you, you should decide on a target position in that field. Many professions contain positions for varying credential levels. For example, if you decide to work in healthcare, you can be a medical assistant, technician, or nurse with an associate degree, but you must attain a doctorate if you want to be a surgeon. In cases like this, knowing what job you want will often make your degree decision for you.

Not sure what major you want? Our advisors can help you discuss your college options and get started on your general education credits.  Learn more about Accelerated Pathways.

3. Does the job you want favor credentials or experience?

Some fields place a premium on the right degree, others place little emphasis on degrees at all. Certain technology fields value expertise in coding skills so highly that they may overlook the lack of credentials. Similarly, many trades don’t require a degree. Trade school may the way to go if you’re considering becoming a plumber, electrician, welder, etc.  

The spectrum of academic careers leans the opposite direction: while skills matter, the credential matter more. The ladder must be climbed. Your field’s emphasis on prestige or skill will impact your choices. Should you immediately go to work to gain experience, or should you progress to the next degree level? The answer to this question depends on the demands of your line of work and how much practical knowledge you bring to the table.

4. What is the cost of your prospective degree?

Your level of education can increase your future earnings. But it’s possible that raise in pay may not be substantial enough to justify the time and money invested into the credential itself. Think about the degrees and institutions you’re considering and do a little number crunching on the total expense for each option. Compare these totals to the potential earnings from your future position. Check out our video on the Opportunity Cost of College for more information on this.

How many years will it take to break even? Make sure your expectations align with reality: even though a degree is typically worth the investment, it doesn’t always pay off right away.

5. What is the opportunity cost of your prospective degree?

Every choice in life automatically excludes something else. Your “opportunity cost” is what you lose by not choosing an option. When you think about your degree or what level of degree to choose, consider: How much money could you earn without the degree? Calculate your potential lifetime earnings if you stay at your current education level and never get the degree. Are you missing valuable work experience by spending time in school? If you didn’t choose to earn this degree, how much would those extra years of experience boost your career potential? What cost are you paying by not having that experience when you graduate?

6. Will you have to pay off student loans?

After researching your degree’s cost and benefits, dig a little deeper to find the potential amount of debt involved. How many years would it take to pay off the loan? What cost savings are available to your degree? Taking out debt for a degree is never advisable. Before you sign the dotted line, make sure you understand the full cost you’re paying by considering student loans. Want a customized college plan to help you graduate on your schedule and without student loans? Talk to an Accelerated Pathways advisor to learn how much we can help you can save on your degree.

7. What is your reason for considering the degree?

Whether you are thinking about a bachelor’s degree or a doctorate, what is your goal for that degree? Your motivation will influence not only the level of education you want, but how much time and money you’re willing to spend earning it. Are you hoping to earn a stable income? Fund another passion? Satisfy a thirst for learning? Climb the ladder in your career? Teach? Lead innovation and discovery? Consider the deep motivations and goals behind your educational choice, then ask yourself: is pursuing this degree the best way to achieve them?

8. What impact will your desired degree have on your life?

Your current season of life might make the degree decision for you—at least for a while. Do you have bills to pay, a savings account to fill, or a family to provide for? If so, you might consider waiting to pursue that next degree level or finding a program flexible enough for you to study and work simultaneously.

Take some time to figure out not only what’s most important for your future, but what’s most important for your life right now. What other life goals or responsibilities will impact when or how you earn a degree? What kind of freedom do you currently have to commit to your education? Many college freshmen are in a stage of life with fewer responsibilities than they will have 5-10 years down the road. For them, this is an excellent time to prioritize goals like education that will be more difficult to juggle later in life.

9. How much time do you want to invest in your education?

Investing in a higher level of education will take time. A lot of it. Count the cost before you sign up for classes. The average time commitment for each degree level is:

Bachelor’s = 4 years + Master’s = 2 years + Doctorate = 4-8 years

If you’re just looking to get a degree as quickly as possible to enter the workplace, an associate or bachelor’s will be the way to go. However, if you’re interested in pursuing a specific career path, you may want to some specific research on what level of degree or training is needed for that path. Our Academic Counselors can help with that!

10. What impact will your desired degree have on your life?

If it’s higher pay you’re interested in, find online estimates of the average earnings in your chosen field before enrolling in that degree program. Will a new credential actually raise your earnings sufficiently? Accelerated Pathways helps you earn a bachelor’s degree on your schedule. We give you the freedom to pursue your important life priorities while you’re still in college! Talk to us about getting started with your fully customized college plan.

Want to learn more about different levels of education? Read our blog post that breaks down the degree levels and offers suggestions.

Congratulations! You’re well on your way to figuring out what level of education is best for you! Once you’ve crunched the numbers and understand your desires for life, take a deep breath and make the plunge. And remember: numbers and pro-con lists aside, you will come out of the process with either irreplaceable work experience or an amazing credential that displays your intelligence and persistence.

Learning—in whatever form it takes—is always worth the costs, and you are a pretty cool person for taking the time to understand and carefully choose the best learning option for you. Learn more about how to earn your bachelor’s degree on your schedule and without debt at Pearson Accelerated.

Sarah knows exactly how you feel. After getting accepted to her dream college in Winter 2019, she felt elated knowing her career goals were within reach. Sarah’s first day moving into the historic campus dorm across from the big clock tower was everything she dreamed college life would be: exciting, social, fun, frustrating, and busy, busy, busy.

Every day was a new adventure on campus—running back and forth between classes, figuring out how to keep notes organized, and joining lots of study groups – including the Intro to Biology study group where she met Oliver. He showed up with a big bag of Cheetos to share, and they instantly hit it off. A few invites to board game nights later, and they became inseparable.

Sarah felt like she was nailing this whole first-year college student thing – getting good grades, navigating the campus, making awesome friends, and even finding love. But just as abruptly as it all began—you guessed it—the pandemic hit.

Covid Crushes Student Dreams!

Suddenly forced to pack up her favorite belongings and head back home, Sarah had a terrible sense of uncertainty about her future. Stuck in her childhood bedroom, she felt like her life was taking a huge step backwards. Even worse, the remote courses that her old campus professors scrambled to piece together were wonky and confusing. She could feel her learning suffering – not to mention her mental health.

Everything Sarah loved about college life—the action, the camaraderie, even the smell of dusty chalkboards—suddenly disappeared and felt uninspiring. All her new college friends were scattered in different cities, and Oliver was 400 miles away at his dad’s house.

While there was still a glimmer of hope that things would return to normal, real-world circumstances kept letting Sarah down. New Covid variant strains, greater concerns of health and safety protocols, plus her parents being extra protective because of her autoimmune condition. Sarah started to go from feeling burnt out to looking visibly depressed.

She just wanted to disengage from the whole process and take a gap year—or worse—give up on school altogether.

Pulling Out of the Covid Rut

Luckily, her college friends set up regular group chats to keep in touch and help each other through their feelings. One day, her former dorm-mate Jessyln announced her decision to switch to online learning through Pearson Accelerated Pathways. The chat was instantly full of questions.

“Wait… what? Why did you switch over to Pearson?” “What’s Pearson Accelerated Pathways?” “Does this mean you’re not coming back to our campus if it re-opens?”

Jesslyn calmly explained, “I have a new online degree plan now through Pearson Accelerated Pathways. They're helping me knock out my general education credits, and the courses are designed for online learning so they’re way easier to learn from. No more Mr. Zamora trying to figure out a zoom call with his confusing PowerPoint slides! Best part is the courses are guaranteed to transfer, so I can finish out my degree faster and cheaper. It’s really helpful!”

The conversation put some fuel in Sarah’s tank. She reached out to Pearson Accelerated Pathways, and sure enough, she’s now back on track to earn her degree! With a big sigh of relief, Sarah is moving toward her goals again, and even finding the flexibility with online learning to plan fun trips with Oliver. In fact, she brought along her laptop and completed a course during their unforgettable week-long camping trip to Colorado. Sarah’s parents are thrilled too. They don’t have to worry about their daughter going back to a crowded dorm or classroom where she could be more susceptible to illness.

Don’t Get Behind on Your College Degree

Has Covid disrupted your learning path? Not ready to head back to in-person classes? We have the perfect solution! Pearson Accelerated Pathways offers transferrable college credits from wherever you are. Studies show that getting behind on your degree can result in big cost and time losses. We’ll get you back on track with the flexibility and affordability you need right now. See how it works. We love helping students reclaim their destiny.

Going to college when you deal with a chronic medical issue or other disability is stressful for many students. For students with underlying health issues, college during the COVID-19 pandemic is even more fraught.

College Students with Disabilities are Common

As many as 17% of young people may suffer from chronic conditions or other disabilities. When mixed with a viral outbreak (like COVID-19) those chronic health conditions become more serious. Those suffering from chronic conditions may be unable to be vaccinated or have suppressed immune systems that cause the vaccine to be less effective. The current CDC advice for immunocompromised patients is to remain vigilant (even when vaccinated) and take the same precautions as unvaccinated Americans against COVID-19. When trying to balance a health issue with higher education, it’s important to be kind to yourself. College is hard for healthy people and so it’s completely understandable to struggle if you’re balancing college with health issues.

Look for Accommodations in Advance

If this sounds like you, there are ways you can excel in college. If you choose an on-campus experience, be sure to investigate your healthcare options in advance. Find a healthcare provider you trust and get set up with them as a patient. Also, don’t be afraid to work with your school of choice to get the accommodations you need. If you have a documented illness that falls under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and you are attending a public or private school that receives federal funding, your school must “make their programs accessible to students with disabilities.” When you work with your school, ask if they may be able to offer you special housing, added time for tests or exams, priority registration, or other accommodations that fit your circumstances. To find out what accommodations your school can offer, contact their office for services for students with disabilities – most schools will have one.

Online Programs Are a Good Option

If you are struggling attending school on campus, then you could consider an online program to supplement or fulfill your degree requirements. Not only is online a good choice for many medical needs, but it also gives you more flexibility to complete your degree. And because many classes are self-paced, you won’t miss anything if you’re out sick or need to see a doctor.

Accelerated Pathways offers online programs, and we work with students that may struggle to attend classes in person for a variety of reasons. Our programs offer cost savings for college courses that are guaranteed to transfer to thousands of degree programs nationwide. Our academic coaches work with you to discover how you can complete your classwork in a remote setting that fits your lifestyle.

Peter Marshall, Academic Success Coach Manager for Accelerated Pathways, works with multiple students that have started online programs to get their college degree because of disabilities. He reports that many of them are happy with their remote learning options. “I recently coached a student with impaired vision that had trouble seeing the board in a traditional classroom setting,” says Marshall. “This student went from struggling to see the board to excelling in school through our online programs.”

The Key is Self-Care

Most importantly, take care of yourself. Don’t let all your self-care routines fall by the wayside when you get caught up in college life. Make time for wellness visits and doctors' appointments. Listen to your body and let your healthcare provider know early if you feel like you might be struggling physically or mentally in your new environment. According to Dr. Amy S. Paller in Teen Vogue, “Make sure you put your health care needs on the calendar. You’ll be incredibly busy, but don’t neglect your daily responsibilities related to health, and say ‘no’ if needed to make sure you get enough sleep.” Going to college either in person or online can be a rite of passage for many students. Whatever your pathway towards a degree, by managing your chronic condition, you can set yourself up for success.

As many schools moved to fully-remote learning last year, students saw their dreams of the college experience disintegrate. According to CNBC’s College Voices series, “Many students could no longer afford to enroll. Others didn’t want a diminished college experience as coronavirus forced most universities online and internships, jobs, and study abroad opportunities were canceled. Others were simply burned out from the stress of the pandemic.”

Thus, it’s no surprise that many students chose to step away from school last fall and take a gap year instead. Other students were forced to scrap the idea of college altogether. In fact, college and postsecondary enrollments dropped in 2020 and community colleges were hit especially hard as the most vulnerable college students were forced to make difficult family and life decisions. 

Now, as we drive towards fall 2021, students are still struggling with decisions around college and to reconcile their “lost year” and its effects on their future.

For some people, their gap year is ending, and they have decided to enroll or reenroll in school. They may be having a tough time deciding about college while there are still uncertainties. Still others have been hit so hard by the pandemic that maybe college doesn’t seem like a realistic choice for them anymore.

If you’re struggling to make decisions about college, you have choices. Don’t just dismiss your college education outright. Read on to find out more about some of the options available based on your circumstances. Whether you are considering taking time off, pursuing a gap year or a leave of absence, or you are thinking about returning to school after some time away, you should keep the following in mind.

Taking a Break for Mental Health Reasons

Your mental health must be your priority. If you're contemplating some time away from school or you've already taken time away, don't feel discouraged. You certainly aren't alone. Psychologist Adam Grant recently described the doldrums that many have been feeling during the pandemic...it’s called “languishing.” And that’s not to minimize the mental health crisis that COVID has only exacerbated for others during the pandemic.

According to Mental Health America, “...colleges understand that other things may come up for students, there are procedures that allow them time away when needed. In terms of Leaves related to mental health, schools have different policies and procedures depending on circumstances.” The important thing to note is that many students that take time off to deal with mental health related care report that the time was useful and helpful when looking at the long term.

If possible, work with your school or university. It’s in their best interest for you to succeed and graduate so they have a personal stake in you. In addition to that, you have rights! Documented mental health issues can qualify you for “reasonable accommodations” related to your illness. These accommodations are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Talk to your college or university to learn more and to find out what accommodations your school provides. 

Taking a Gap Year, a Leave of Absence, or Deferring Your Enrollment

If you want to take some time to explore before (or even during) college, you aren’t alone. As many as 40% of students last year opted to take a gap year, a much higher number than normal due to COVID-19. If you aren't sure what you want to study or need a little time to explore your interests prior to jumping into higher education, taking a gap year might be a solution.  

A gap year can yield positive results, if done right. On average, students that took a gap year had shorter times to graduate and higher grades than national averages. So, a gap year can help you set yourself up for success by allowing you to make important decisions about your future and helping you gain focus and perspective it’s hard to get just launching straight from high school into college.

The caveat to all these benefits for gap year students is to be sure you set guidelines on your leave, so your gap year doesn’t turn into a gap decade! And keep in mind that taking time out of school can reduce your earning years, so make sure it’s the right decision for you.

So, how to maximize your gap year benefits and minimize the downfalls? Keep these guidelines in mind as you plan your gap year: 

Guideline 1: Have a Re-entry Plan

Have you already been admitted to a college? Be sure to understand your college or university's policy around deferring or taking a leave of absence. While some schools have openly encouraged (see Harvard) students to defer their education, others have responded to the pandemic by tightening up their rules around deferments...so just be sure you know where YOUR school falls on that spectrum and have a plan to deal with it upon your return.

Edgar Lopez, a PhD candidate in Urban Education quoted in CNBC.com explains, “Research has shown for Latinx students in particular, the longer they take gap years, the less likely they are going to return back to campus.” So, having a plan to come back and setting some boundaries on the front-side of a leave of absence is essential. 

Guideline 2: Set Some Boundaries

Don’t just spend your gap year huddled up watching reruns of Real Housewives in your parents’ basement. Get a plan in place to maximize your time away from school and have a goal of when you want to return. This doesn’t mean every second of your year/semester/whatever has to be planned out, but it helps to have a few things lined up. Line up a volunteer gig or an internship to focus your time and energy while you are away. Or maybe you’ve always wanted to see the Pacific Ocean. Now’s your chance to plan that epic road trip. Now is a chance to mark off a bucket list item or do some soul searching. 

Guideline 3: Uncover Your Passions

This is what a gap year is all about. It’s a chance to explore what you are passionate about and maybe gain some real-world experience at the same time. While your high school (and much of your college) education is theoretical knowledge, a gap year is a chance to gain some real-world experience. And the best way to maximize your investment (because a gap year IS an investment of time and a deferment of your income-earning years) is to discover whether what you think you might be a good fit for is going to be a good fit in the real world. For example, have you ever heard of a student that spends time and money on pre-law and then law school only to discover they hate being a lawyer? If they’d taken some time to intern at a law firm prior or interviewed lawyers in their field of interest prior to earning that expensive degree, maybe they'd have realized it wasn't a good fit after all.

So, when used wisely, a gap year can actually save you time and money discovering what might or might not be a good career for your future self. It’s like a little glimpse into your proposed future. 

If you’re considering taking some time off from your education, you can use tools like Pearson Accelerated Pathways to continue your progress. Our advisors are available and can walk students through a plan to get online college credit during their gap year (even if it’s just one course at a time). When you speak with our experts, they can build you a plan that includes college credit that can be earned from anywhere and is guaranteed to transfer into your current degree program. Find out if you are a good fit so you can continue to make progress towards your degree while you’re away from school. 

Leaving School

Has the pandemic (or other financial or life stressors) forced you to drop out? Maybe your gap year has (either intentionally or unintentionally) morphed into an extended leave of absence or an exodus from higher education. If you ended up taking an extended amount of time off from school, you can get back into the swing of things.

Programs like Accelerated Pathways allow students with full-time jobs or those who are taking time off to travel a way to pursue higher education at their own pace. Our advisors speak to students like you to develop individual plans that allow you to pick a path towards education that fits your life and your goals. And our advisors can map degree plans to thousands of colleges and areas of study in the United States.

So, if you are struggling to get back into school after taking a COVID-related (or any!) leave of absence, it might be worth a look at programs like Pearson Accelerated Pathways where you can gradually ease your way back into school and you don’t have to give up your job, your family, your travels, or your life.