Over the years, many students have wondered what the best course to study in school that will guarantee employment, job and career opportunities, almost immediately after they have graduated.
Amidst the global unemployment rate, there are several Professional courses you can study to get a good paying job immediately after graduation.
It is undeniable that the rate of unemployment this time is something to worry about. After graduation, so many individuals are faced with the uncertainty of how to make the next move. But then, people are still building successful careers in the world.
Professional courses could be studied right n the university, polytechnic or even college of education. This is dependent on the course you studied. These professional courses below seem to be the best bet in the world today because the majority of graduates with professional certificates or qualifications do not have to climb a mountain before they could land a well-paying job.
TOP 20 BEST PROFESSIONAL COURSES TO STUDY IN UNIVERSITY WITH BEST CAREER & JOB OPPORTUNITIES.
1. MEDICINE
2. CHEMICAL ENGINEERING
3. PETROLEUM ENGINEERING
4. ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING
5. LAW
6. PHARMACY
7. ACCOUNTING AND FINANCE
8. AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING
9. MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
10. CIVIL ENGINEERING
11. ARCHITECTURE
12. MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE
13. COMPUTER ENGINEERING
14. ECONOMICS
15. SURVEYING
16. NURSING SCIENCE
17. MARINE ENGINEERING
18. NAUTICAL SCIENCE
19. GEOLOGY
2O BIOCHEMISTRY
1. MEDICINE AND SURGERY
Careers in Medicine
A comprehensive overview of the dominant career paths in the medical industry
Did you know that there is an entire field of medicine devoted to the inner workings of the urinary tract? Or that it’s possible to become a specialist in the human foot?
Medicine is a fast-growing field with a wide array of careers that range from predictably practical to fascinatingly bizarre. And while general practitioners are still in high demand, more specialized jobs are becoming increasingly popular each year.
Interested in working in medicine? Let’s take a look at some of the top careers in this area and why they might be a fit for you.
Doctor (GP)
Also known as physician, medical practitioner, medical doctor, or medical officer.
When people hear “careers in medicine” they tend to picture some kind of doctor—and, to some extent, they’re right. A dazzling number of professions fall under this heading. In fact, there are almost as many different kinds of doctor as there are parts of the human body!
But no matter what their specialty, all doctors have one key goal in mind: to promote, maintain, and restore their patients’ health.
What’s it like being a doctor?
Most medical careers involve some amount of social time, but this is especially true for general practitioners. In the US, they see an average of 20 patients of day, and these tightly-booked appointments are often interspersed with phone calls and meetings with patients, specialists, and other medical staff.
Typical duties include taking medical histories, diagnosing patients, prescribing medication and other treatments, and filling out paperwork. They spend a lot of the day asking probing questions, listening closely, and offering advice. Depending on where they work and what they specialize in, they might run and analyze medical tests, perform surgeries, do hospital rounds, counsel a patient on how to live with a chronic condition, or comfort a family after the loss of a loved one.
The best doctors are…
…efficient and empathetic. Doctors are on their feet and moving fast for most of the day, which means time management skills are an absolute must. But they’re also required to ask very personal questions of their patients, making people skills a huge asset. Finally, because they are sometimes required to make challenging, potentially life-changing decisions under high stress conditions, the best doctors also have calm, analytical minds.
What are the best and worst things about being a doctor?
Not surprisingly, maintaining work-life balance can be challenging in this career. The hours are long and can sometimes creep into evenings and weekends. Many doctors are required to be on-call for 48-hour stretches at a time, which means they have to be “on” and ready to work at a moment’s notice. Perhaps in part because of the stress and demanding hours, a growing number of doctors are dissatisfied in their careers.
Becoming a doctor requires time and effort.
Doctors deal with life and death situations on a regular basis, so the training required is, understandably, extremely rigourous. Aspiring doctors first have to finish an undergraduate degree—completing courses in biology, chemistry, and other prerequisites—ace the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), and gain relevant volunteer experience before they can even apply to medical school. Once they’re in, they’ll complete two years of coursework and two years of practical work before graduating. The newly minted grads then move on to a three- to seven-year-long residency program in their specialty of choice, complete a barrage of tests, and finally obtain their license to practice medicine.
Obstetrician-Gynaecologist (Ob-Gyn)
There are far too many medical specialties to cover here, but Obstetrics and Gynaecology is perhaps one of the most rewarding. Doctors in this field spend their time working on all aspects of the female reproductive system, which means they get to be a part of some of the most exciting and challenging years of their patients’ lives.
What is the difference between a gynaecologist, an obstetrician, and an obstetrician-gynaecologist?
Gynaecologists and obstetricians are both experts in female reproduction, but play very different roles in their patients’ well-being. Gynaecologists help identify and treat conditions concerning the vagina, from fertility issues to hormone disorders, sexually transmitted infections to birth control. Obstetricians, on the other hand, work with all aspects of childbirth, caring for their patients from pregnancy until well into the postpartum period. Ob-gyns are trained to handle all of these responsibilities, which means they are able to work with the same patients from puberty through menopause. Some even handle general health queries, helping with issues like asthma, diabetes, and osteoporosis.
What sets obstetrician-gynaecologists apart from other doctors?
Like most doctors, ob-gyns are analytical, empathetic, and rigorous. But the best ob-gyns also have incredibly strong social skills, enabling them to make their patients feel comfortable even in the most awkward or vulnerable situations.
During their training, ob-gyns complete a four-year residency focused on obstetrics and gynaecology, followed, in some cases, by an optional three-year fellowship in an even more specialized field. In addition to obtaining their state medical license, many also choose to get certified as an ob-gyn by the American Board of Medical Specialties after their studies.
What kind of lifestyle does an obstetrician-gynaecologist have?
Full-time ob-gyns typically work between 40 and 60 hours a week, in addition to one or two nights of on-call work per month. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Some ob-gyns work only four days a week; others cap it at two or three. As with GPs, workdays tend to be long and hectic, and the pressure of having to be available for emergencies can take an emotional toll.
For many ob-gyns, assisting with childbirth is both one of the most stressful and rewarding aspects of their job. Those who are able to handle the pressure rate themselves as extremely satisfied with their career (4.5 out of 5). Ob-gyns are also very well.
Radiologist
Another top-ranking career, radiologists use medical imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), x-rays, and ultrasounds to diagnose and treat cancers and a variety of other illnesses. Not only are radiologists among the most in demand of all doctors, they’re also among the best paid—with average salaries punching in at well over $400,000 US.
Is radiology a dangerous career?
Just like any doctor, radiologists spend much of their day taking down patients’ medical histories, updating electronic records, and comparing reports. But they also perform complex diagnostic imaging procedures, such as CT, PET, and mammography, putting them in contact with radiation on a regular basis. Although positions in radiology have historically been linked with higher rates of cancer, technological innovations have made it possible to pursue this career with relatively little risk.
Are radiologists more stressed than other doctors?
About half of radiologists report experiencing burnout or depression. This isn’t surprising given their schedules. About a third of radiologists work more than 50 hours a week, and about 10% of them rack in more than 60 hours. Most clock in early—often before 8 am—and usually pick up at least one on-call shift per week.
But despite the hard work, radiologists tend to be pretty happy overall, rating their career satisfaction at 3.8/5 on average. And as we mentioned above, they’re well paid. It’s a tough gig, but a rewarding one: both emotionally and financially.
How do I become a radiologist?
A radiologists’ career path is much like any doctor’s, but includes a couple of additional hurdles. After completing an MD, aspiring radiologists complete both an internship in general medicine and a residency in radiology. Most also supplement this training with a one- to two-year fellowship program in a subspecialty of their choice before finally applying for their license.
Medical Assistant
Luckily, not all careers in medicine require a medical degree. In fact, a majority of the fastest-growing medical jobs can be done without one. Of these, medical assistant probably provides the greatest number of employment opportunities for the least amount of training. This makes it an ideal entry-level job for people interested in the world of medicine, but not interested in completing 11+ years of education.
What is a medical assistant?
Simply put, medical assistants are support workers—the people who work behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly in the medical world. They help doctors, nurses, and other medical staff by scheduling patient appointments, updating medical files, filling out insurance forms, organizing medical charts, and other administrative tasks. They also perform some clinical duties, including managing prescription refills, taking patients’ blood pressure and other vitals, and preparing exam rooms before and after each visit.
An ideal medical assistant….
…is organized and personable. Medical assistants are the face of the clinic, the people who help patients feel welcome, secure, and supported when they come in. But they also play a key organizational role, ensuring that all other medical staff are well-equipped to do their job. The best medical assistants are efficient, empathetic multitaskers.
What does a day in the life of a medical assistant look like?
Medical assistants tend to work in private doctor’s offices, walk-in clinics, or hospitals. In most cases, appointments are booked only 15 minutes apart, making this a very active, fast-paced job. Many medical assistants are responsible for helping two or more doctors at once, upping the pressure even further.
Work schedules are usually predictable, but this depends on the setting. An 8-hour workday is possible, but not necessarily the norm. Some clinics are open until late into the night; others shut their doors promptly at 5 pm.
Are medical assistants well-paid?
Medical assistants are among the lowest-paid healthcare professionals, with salaries averaging about $27,500 US. That said, with enough experience, some medical assistants can make as much as $45,000 a year.
Can I become a medical assistant without a university degree?
Yes! This is probably the most enticing aspect of this career: medical assistants can start working with just a high school diploma under their belt. Of course, post-secondary education is an asset, and many aspiring medical assistants choose to enrol in some kind of formal training to increase their job prospects. If you do decide to go this route, make sure you choose a program that’s been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). Usually, you’ll need either a one-year certificate or a two-year associate’s degree to really become a competitive candidate.
Physician Assistant
Also known as doctor assistant, doctor’s assistant, or physician’s assistant.
Often confused with medical assistants, physician assistants play a unique role in the medical system. These hardworking and compassionate individuals work intimately with teams of surgeons or physicians to examine, diagnose, and treat a variety of conditions. They get to know their patients on a one-to-one basis, providing them with treatment plans and educating them on how to maintain their health in the long-term. Essentially, physician assistants fulfil a “doctor-like” role. They can complete most of the tasks of any other practitioner, but only under the supervision of an MD.
What’s the difference between a physician assistant and a medical assistant?
Unlike medical assistant, physician assistant is not an entry-level position. These professionals are licensed health care providers with advanced medical duties. A day in the life of a physician assistant looks a lot more like a practicing physician’s, and a lot less like a receptionist’s.
Not surprisingly, physician assistants go through a lot more training than medical assistants to get to where they are. Typically, candidates complete a bachelor’s degree in science or another related field, then a master’s degree from an accredited PA training program (MA-PA), before finally taking the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE). Only then can they apply for a PA license, a certification that they’ll have to renew every 2 years for the rest of their career.
For all their hard work, physician assistants also get paid more than medical assistants, racking up an average of about $100,000 US per year. It may not be quite the salary of an MD, but it’s a lot cushier than that of a medical assistant.
Is it hard to get hired as a physician assistant?
The Board of Labor Statistics classifies physician assistant as a “Bright Outlook” occupation, with job growth expected to increase by 37% by 2026.
2. CHEMICAL ENGINEERING
For B.Sc course in Chemistry, there no entrance test in most of the colleges.
Types of Job Roles Chemical Engineer.
Chemical Engineers are required for diverse jobs. The following are some of the job profiles that chemical engineers can take up after obtaining the necessary skills.
Analytical Chemist: An analytical chemist is a scientist who studies and tests the chemical compositions and behaviours of varied substances.
Energy Manager: An energy manager monitors the usage of energy across the industry or organisation. He/ She also undertake energy audits.
Environmental Engineer: These engineers use the principles of biology, chemistry, soil science and engineering to develop solutions to environmental problems. They also involved in different initiatives to improve recycling, public health, waste disposal and water & air pollution control.
Manufacturing Engineer: the major responsibility of manufacturing engineer is to evaluate manufacturing processes by designing and conducting research programmes. They also apply their knowledge of various activities involved in the manufacturing process.
Materials Engineer: These engineers specialise in metals, ceramics or plastics. They also develop composite materials and study the atomic structure of materials.
Mining Engineer: Mining engineers play a vital role in extracting the underground resources such as minerals, oil, gas and metals.
Production Manager: The major responsibility of the production managers is to assess project and resource requirements. They also plan and organise production schedules.
Lecturer: Chemical engineers can also become lectures in universities and colleges after attaining the necessary qualifications.
Employment Sector/Industry for Chemical Engineer
Since chemical engineering covers a wide range of industrial sectors, the employment opportunities for chemical engineers are diverse. Any company that is involved in the conversion of raw materials into a product require chemical engineers. Chemical engineers can find major employment opportunities in
Oil refineries,
Gas and oil extraction,
Power generation industries,
Pharmaceuticals,
Fine and heavy chemical industries,
Agrochemical industries
Fibres and Polymer Industries
Beverage Industries
Universities, Colleges and Schools
Top Recruiting Agencies for Chemical Engineers
Some of the top companies and industries require skilled chemical engineers for various positions. The list of top recruiting companies for chemical engineers can be checked below.
Reliance Industries
Essar Oil Limited
Deepak Fertilisers and Petrochemicals
Arofine Polymers
Reliance Petroleum Limited
Colour-Chem Ltd
Gujarat Gas Company Limited
Gujarat Alkalies & Chemicals Ltd
Godavari Fertilisers & Chemicals
L & T
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Pay Scale/Salary of Chemical Engineer
Chemical engineers in diverse sectors earn a satisfactory salary. Most companies pay more for highly skilled and experienced chemical engineers and researchers. The average salary structure of chemical engineers is detailed below.
Books & Study Material to Become Chemical Engineer
Students can rely on the following books to prepare for competitive exams and enhance knowledge in the field of chemical engineering.
Unit Operations of Chemical Engineering by Warren L McCabe
Elements of Chemical Reaction Engineering by H Scott Fogler
Introduction to Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics by Hedrick C Van Ness
Elementary Principles of Chemical Processes by Richard M Felder
Chemical Reaction Engineering by Octave Levenspiel
Introduction to Chemical Engineering by WL Badger
Pros of becoming a Chemical Engineer
Apart from annual salary, chemical engineers are provided with various health benefits, retirement pension etc.
Chemical engineers are capable of contributing meaningful advancements to societ
Career Path For Chemical Engineer.
For entry-level positions in chemical engineering, one must possess a Bachelor’s degree in the respective field. Students must have a strong background in Chemistry, Biology, Physics and Mathematics. A master’s degree in chemical engineering or chemistry will open up new avenues in research and higher posts.
Subjects Combination: Students must have studied Physics, Biology/ Mathematics and Chemistry as the major subjects and English language compulsory subject.
3. PETROLEUM ENGINEERING
Petroleum engineers design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas from deposits below the Earth’s surface.
Work Environment: Petroleum engineers generally work in offices or at drilling and well sites. Travel is frequently required to visit these sites or to meet with other engineers, oilfield workers, and customers.
How to Become One: Petroleum engineers must have a bachelor’s degree in engineering, preferably petroleum engineering. However, a bachelor’s degree in mechanical, civil, chemical engineering may meet employer requirements. Employers also value work experience, so cooperative-education programs, in which students earn academic credit and job experience, are valuable as well.
Job Outlook: Employment of petroleum engineers is projected to grow 3 percent over the next ten years, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Oil prices will be a major determinant of employment growth. Higher prices can cause oil and gas companies to increase capital investment in new facilities and expand existing production operations, along with exploration.
Related Careers: Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of petroleum engineers with similar occupations.
Senior Materials Engineer – BakerRisk – San Antonio, TX
An advanced degree and experience in the petroleum and chemical industries are preferred. The candidate should be a Professional Engineer , who can provide expert testimony. The candidate should have …
Reservoir Engineer – Sentinel Peak Resources – Bakersfield, CA
Carry out field and reservoir studies as part of an integrated team and perform reservoir engineering functions including decline curve analysis, material balance, volumetrics, thermal analytical …
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What Petroleum Engineers Do
Petroleum engineers design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas from deposits below the Earth’s surface. Petroleum engineers also find new ways to extract oil and gas from older wells.
Duties of Petroleum Engineers
Petroleum engineers typically do the following:
Design equipment to extract oil and gas from onshore and offshore reserves deep underground
Develop plans to drill in oil and gas fields, and then to recover the oil and gas
Develop ways to inject water, chemicals, gases, or steam into an oil reserve to force out more oil or gas
Make sure that oilfield equipment is installed, operated, and maintained properly
Evaluate the production of wells through surveys, testing, and analysis
Oil and gas deposits, or reservoirs, are located deep in rock formations underground. These reservoirs can be accessed only by drilling wells, either on land, or at sea from offshore oil rigs.
Once oil and gas are discovered, petroleum engineers work with geoscientists and other specialists to understand the geologic formation of the rock containing the reservoir. They then determine the drilling methods, design the drilling equipment, implement the drilling plan, and monitor operations.
The best techniques currently being used recover only a portion of the oil and gas in a reservoir, so petroleum engineers also research and develop new ways to recover more of the oil and gas. This additional recovery helps to lower the cost of drilling and production.
The following are examples of types of petroleum engineers:
Completions engineers decide the best way to finish building wells so that oil or gas will flow up from underground. They oversee work to complete the building of wells—a project that might involve the use of tubing, hydraulic fracturing, or pressure-control techniques.
Drilling engineers determine the best way to drill oil or gas wells, taking into account a number of factors, including cost. They also ensure that the drilling process is safe, efficient, and minimally disruptive to the environment.
Production engineers take over wells after drilling is completed. They typically monitor wells’ oil and gas production. If wells are not producing as much as expected, production engineers figure out ways to increase the amount being extracted.
Reservoir engineers estimate how much oil or gas can be recovered from underground deposits, known as reservoirs. They study reservoirs’ characteristics and determine which methods will get the most oil or gas out of the reservoirs. They also monitor operations to ensure that optimal levels of these resources are being recovered.
Work Environment for Petroleum Engineers
Petroleum engineers hold about 33,400 jobs. The largest employers of petroleum engineers are as follows:
Oil and gas extraction 34%
Management of companies and enterprises 18%
Support activities for mining 14%
Petroleum and coal products manufacturing 7%
Engineering services 7%
Petroleum engineers generally work in offices or at drilling and well sites. Travel is frequently required to visit these sites or to meet with other engineers, oilfield workers, and customers.
Large oil and gas companies maintain operations around the world; therefore, petroleum engineers sometimes work in other countries. Petroleum engineers also must be able to work with people from a wide variety of backgrounds, including other types of engineers, scientists, and oil and gas field workers.
Petroleum Engineer Work Schedules
Petroleum engineers typically work full time. Overtime may be necessary when traveling to and from drilling sites to help in their operation or respond to problems when they arise.
How To Become A Petroleum Engineer
Get the education you need: Find schools for Petroleum Engineers near you!
Petroleum engineers must have a bachelor’s degree in engineering, preferably petroleum engineering. However, a bachelor’s degree in mechanical, civil, or chemical engineering may meet employer requirements. Employers also value work experience, so college cooperative-education programs, in which students earn academic credit and job experience, are valuable as well.
Education for Petroleum Engineers
Students interested in studying petroleum engineering will benefit from taking high school courses in math, such as algebra, trigonometry, and calculus; and in science, such as biology, chemistry, and physics.
Entry-level petroleum engineering jobs require a bachelor’s degree. Bachelor’s degree programs include classes, laboratory work, and field studies in areas such as engineering principles, geology, and thermodynamics. Most colleges and universities offer cooperative programs in which students gain practical experience while completing their education.
Some colleges and universities offer 5-year programs in chemical or mechanical engineering that lead to both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree. Some employers prefer applicants who have earned a graduate degree. A graduate degree also allows an engineer to work as an instructor at some universities or in research and development.
Important Qualities For Petroleum Engineers.
Analytical skills. Petroleum engineers must be able to compile and make sense of large amounts of technical information and data in order to ensure that facilities operate safely and effectively.
Creativity. Because each new drill site is unique and therefore presents new challenges, petroleum engineers must be able to come up with creative designs to extract oil and gas.
Interpersonal skills. Petroleum engineers must work with others on projects that require highly complex machinery, equipment, and infrastructure. Communicating and working well with other engineers and oil and gas workers is crucial to ensuring that projects meet customer needs and run safely and efficiently.
Math skills. Petroleum engineers use the principles of calculus and other advanced topics in math for analysis, design, and troubleshooting in their work.
Problem-solving skills. Identifying problems in drilling plans is critical for petroleum engineers because these problems can be costly. Petroleum engineers must be careful not to overlook any potential issues and must quickly address those which do occur.
Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations for Petroleum Engineers.
Licensure is not required for entry-level positions as a petroleum engineer. A Professional Engineering (PE) license, which allows for higher levels of leadership and independence, can be acquired later in one’s career. Licensed engineers are called professional engineers (PEs). A PE can oversee the work of other engineers, sign off on projects, and provide services directly to the public. State licensure generally requires
A degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program
A passing score on the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam
Relevant work experience, typically at least 4 years
A passing score on the Professional Engineering (PE) exam
The initial FE exam can be taken after one earns a bachelor’s degree. Engineers who pass this exam are commonly called engineers in training (EITs) or engineer interns (EIs).
After meeting work experience requirements, EITs and EIs can take the second exam, called the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE).
Several states require engineers to take continuing education courses in order to keep their licenses. Most states recognize licensure from other states if the licensing state’s requirements meet or exceed their own licensure requirements.
The Society of Petroleum Engineers offers certification. To be certified, petroleum engineers must be members of the Society, pass an exam, and meet other qualifications.
Advancement for Petroleum Engineers.
Entry-level engineers usually work under the supervision of experienced engineers. In large companies, new engineers also may receive formal training. As engineers gain knowledge and experience, they move to more difficult projects on which they have greater independence to develop designs, solve problems, and make decisions.
Eventually, petroleum engineers may advance to supervise a team of engineers and technicians. Some become engineering managers or move into other managerial positions. For more information, see the profile on architectural and engineering managers.
Petroleum engineers also may go into sales and use their engineering background to inform the discussion of a product’s technical aspects with potential buyers and to help in product planning, installation, and use. For more information, see the profile on sales engineers.
Employment of petroleum engineers is projected to grow 3 percent over the next ten years, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
Oil prices will be a major determinant of employment growth. Because many petroleum engineers work in oil and gas extraction, any changes in oil prices will likely affect employment levels. Higher prices can cause oil and gas companies to increase capital investment in new facilities and expand existing production operations. Typically, companies also expand exploration for new reserves of oil and gas when prices are high.
Demand for petroleum engineers in support activities for mining should be strong, as large oil and gas companies find it convenient and cost effective to contract production and drilling work to these firms as needed.
Employment projections data for Petroleum Engineers, 2020 -30
Occupational Title Employment, 2020 Projected Employment, 2030 Change, 2020-30
Percent Numeric
Petroleum engineers 33,400 34,400 3 1,100
Careers Related to Petroleum Engineers.
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Architectural and engineering managers plan, direct, and coordinate activities in architectural and engineering companies.
Chemical Engineers
Chemical engineers apply the principles of chemistry, biology, physics, and math to solve problems that involve the production or use of chemicals, fuel, drugs, food, and many other products. They design processes and equipment for large-scale manufacturing, plan and test production methods and byproducts treatment, and direct facility operations.
Civil Engineers
Civil engineers conceive, design, build, supervise, operate, construct, and maintain infrastructure projects and systems in the public and private sector, including roads, buildings, airports, tunnels, dams, bridges, and systems for water supply and sewage treatment.
Geological and Hydrologic Technicians
Geological and hydrologic technicians support scientists and engineers in exploring, extracting, and monitoring natural resources.
Geoscientists
Geoscientists study the physical aspects of the Earth, such as its composition, structure, and processes, to learn about its past, present, and future.
Industrial Engineers
Industrial engineers find ways to eliminate wastefulness in production processes. They devise efficient systems that integrate workers, machines, materials, information, and energy to make a product or provide a service.
Mechanical Engineers
Mechanical engineering is one of the broadest engineering disciplines. Mechanical engineers design, develop, build, and test mechanical and thermal sensors and devices, including tools, engines, and machines.
Mining and Geological Engineers
Mining and geological engineers design mines to safely and efficiently remove minerals such as coal and metals for use in manufacturing and utility
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4. ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
Electrical and Electronics Engineers
design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacture of electrical equipment.
Work Environment: Electrical and electronics engineers work in industries including research and development, engineering services, manufacturing, telecommunications, and the federal government. Electrical and electronics engineers generally work indoors in offices. However, they may have to visit sites to observe a problem or a piece of complex equipment.
How to Become One: Electrical and electronics engineers must have a bachelor’s degree.
Following is everything you need to know about a career as an electrical engineer with lots of details. As a first step, take a look at some of the following jobs, which are real jobs with real employers. You will be able to see the very real job career requirements for employers who are actively hiring. The link will open in a new tab so that you can come back to this page to continue reading about the career:
Electronics Engineer – CyberCoders
– Gardena, CA
Electronics Engineer If you are a Electronics Engineer with a passion to create innovative systems … Our team of engineers are producing some of the most innovative technology for the Agriculture …
Power Electronics Engineer – Ubiquitous Energy – Redwood City, CA
Team player who works well as an individual contributor alongside other technicians and engineers . * US citizen or permanent resident. Power Electronics Engineer.
What Electrical and Electronics Engineers Do.
Electrical engineers design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacturing of electrical equipment, such as electric motors, radar and navigation systems, communications systems, or power generation equipment. Electrical engineers also design the electrical systems of automobiles and aircraft.
Electronics engineers design and develop electronic equipment, including broadcast and communications systems, such as portable music players and Global Positioning System (GPS) devices. Many also work in areas closely related to computer hardware.
Duties of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Electrical engineers typically do the following:
Design new ways to use electrical power to develop or improve products
Perform detailed calculations to develop manufacturing, construction, and installation standards and specifications
Direct the manufacture, installation, and testing of electrical equipment to ensure that products meet specifications and codes
Investigate complaints from customers or the public, evaluate problems, and recommend solutions
Work with project managers on production efforts to ensure that projects are completed satisfactorily, on time, and within budget
Electronics engineers typically do the following:
Design electronic components, software, products, or systems for commercial, industrial, medical, military, or scientific applications
Analyze customer needs and determine the requirements, capacity, and cost for developing an electrical system plan
Develop maintenance and testing procedures for electronic components and equipment
Evaluate systems and recommend design modifications or equipment repair
Inspect electronic equipment, instruments, and systems to make sure they meet safety standards and applicable regulations
Plan and develop applications and modifications for electronic properties used in parts and systems in order to improve technical performance
Electronics engineers who work for the federal government research, develop, and evaluate electronic devices used in a variety of areas, such as aviation, computing, transportation, and manufacturing. They work on federal electronic devices and systems, including satellites, flight systems, radar and sonar systems, and communications systems.
The work of electrical engineers and electronics engineers is often similar. Both use engineering and design software and equipment to do engineering tasks. Both types of engineers also must work with other engineers to discuss existing products and possibilities for engineering projects.
Engineers whose work is related exclusively to computer hardware are considered computer hardware engineers.
Work Environment for Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Electrical engineers hold about 193,100 jobs. The largest employers of electrical engineers are as follows:
Engineering services 20%
Electric power generation, transmission and distribution 9%
Navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instruments manufacturing 7%
Research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences 5%
Semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturing 4%
Electronics engineers, except computer hold about 138,500 jobs. The largest employers of electronics engineers, except computer are as follows:
Telecommunications 17%
Semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturing 14%
Federal government, excluding postal service 13%
Engineering services 7%
Navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instruments manufacturing 5%
Electrical and electronics engineers generally work indoors in offices. However, they may visit sites to observe a problem or a piece of complex equipment.
Electrical and Electronics Engineer Work Schedules
Most electrical and electronics engineers work full time.
How To Become An Electrical Or Electronics Engineer.
Get the education you need: Find schools for Electrical and Electronics Engineers near you!
Electrical and electronics engineers must have a bachelor’s degree. Employers also value practical experience, such as internships or participation in cooperative engineering programs, in which students earn academic credit for structured work experience.
Electrical and Electronics Engineer Education
High school students interested in studying electrical or electronics engineering benefit from taking courses in physics and math, including algebra, trigonometry, and calculus. Courses in drafting are also helpful, because electrical and electronics engineers often are required to prepare technical drawings.
In order to enter the occupation, prospective electrical and electronics engineers need a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, electronics engineering, electrical engineering technology, or a related engineering field. Programs include classroom, laboratory, and field studies. Courses include digital systems design, differential equations, and electrical circuit theory. Programs in electrical engineering, electronics engineering, or electrical engineering technology should be accredited by ABET.
Some colleges and universities offer cooperative programs in which students gain practical experience while completing their education. Cooperative programs combine classroom study with practical work. Internships provide similar experience and are growing in number.
At some universities, students can enroll in a 5-year program that leads to both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree. A graduate degree allows an engineer to work as an instructor at some universities, or in research and development.
Important Qualities for Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Concentration. Electrical and electronics engineers design and develop complex electrical systems and electronic components and products. They must keep track of multiple design elements and technical characteristics when performing these tasks.
Initiative. Electrical and electronics engineers must apply their knowledge to new tasks in every project they undertake. In addition, they must engage in continuing education to keep up with changes in technology.
Interpersonal skills. Electrical and electronics engineers must work with others during the manufacturing process to ensure that their plans are implemented correctly. This collaboration includes monitoring technicians and devising remedies to problems as they arise.
Math skills. Electrical and electronics engineers must use the principles of calculus and other advanced math in order to analyze, design, and troubleshoot equipment.
Speaking skills. Electrical and electronics engineers work closely with other engineers and technicians. They must be able to explain their designs and reasoning clearly and to relay instructions during product development and production. They also may need to explain complex issues to customers who have little or no technical expertise.
Writing skills. Electrical and electronics engineers develop technical publications related to equipment they develop, including maintenance manuals, operation manuals, parts lists, product proposals, and design methods documents.
Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations for Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Licensure is not required for entry-level positions as electrical and electronics engineers. A Professional Engineering (PE) license, which allows for higher levels of leadership and independence, can be acquired later in one’s career. Licensed engineers are called professional engineers (PEs). A PE can oversee the work of other engineers, sign off on projects, and provide services directly to the public. State licensure generally requires
A degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program
A passing score on the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam
Relevant work experience, typically at least 4 years
A passing score on the Professional Engineering (PE) exam
The initial FE exam can be taken after earning a bachelor’s degree. Engineers who pass this exam commonly are called engineers in training (EITs) or engineer interns (EIs). After meeting work experience requirements, EITs and EIs can take the second exam, called the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE).
Each state issues its own licenses. Most states recognize licensure from other states, as long as the licensing state’s requirements meet or exceed their own licensure requirements. Several states require continuing education for engineers to keep their licenses.
Other Experience for Electrical and Electronics Engineers
During high school, students can attend engineering summer camps to see what these and other engineers do. Attending these camps can help students plan their coursework for the remainder of their time in high school. The Engineering Education Service Center has a directory of engineering summer camps.
Advancement for Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Electrical and electronic engineers may advance to supervisory positions in which they lead a team of engineers and technicians. Some may move to management positions, working as engineering or program managers. Preparation for managerial positions usually requires working under the guidance of a more experienced engineer. For more information, see the profile on architectural and engineering managers.
For sales work, an engineering background enables engineers to discuss a product’s technical aspects and assist in product planning and use.
Research and development in the
Overall employment of electrical and electronics engineers is projected to grow 3 percent over the next ten years, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Employment growth is expected to be tempered by slow growth or decline in most manufacturing industries and in telecommunications.
Job growth for electrical and electronics engineers is projected to occur largely in professional, scientific, and technical services firms, as more companies are expected to tap the expertise of engineers for projects involving electronic devices and systems. These engineers also will remain in demand to develop sophisticated consumer electronics.
The rapid pace of technological innovation will create some demand for electrical and electronics engineers in research and development, an area in which engineering expertise will be needed to design distribution systems related to new technologies. These engineers will play key roles in new developments with solar arrays, semiconductors, and communications technologies.
Employment projections data for Electrical and Electronics Engineers, 2020-30
Occupational Title Employment, 2020 Projected Employment, 2030 Change, 2020 -30
Percent Numeric
Electrical and electronics engineers 328,100 338,900 3 10,800
Electrical engineers 193,100 202,100 5 9,000
Electronics engineers, except computer 134,900 136,800 1 1,900
Careers Related to Electrical and Electronics Engineers.
Aerospace Engineers
Aerospace engineers design primarily aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. In addition, they create and test prototypes to make sure that they function according to design.
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Architectural and engineering managers plan, direct, and coordinate activities in architectural and engineering companies.
Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers
Bioengineers and biomedical engineers combine engineering principles with sciences to design and create equipment, devices, computer systems, and software.
Computer Hardware Engineers
Computer hardware engineers research, design, develop, and test computer systems and components such as processors, circuit boards, memory devices, networks, and routers.
Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technicians
Electrical and electronics engineering technicians help engineers design and develop computers, communications equipment, medical monitoring devices, navigational equipment, and other electrical and electronic equipment. They often work in product evaluation and testing, and use measuring and diagnostic devices to adjust, test, and repair equipment. They are also involved in the manufacture and deployment of equipment for automation.
Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers
Electrical and electronics installers and repairers install or repair a variety of electrical equipment in telecommunications, transportation, utilities, and other industries.
Electricians
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical power, communications, lighting, and control systems in homes, businesses, and factories.
Electro-mechanical Technicians
Electro-mechanical technicians combine knowledge of mechanical technology with knowledge of electrical and electronic circuits. They operate, test, and maintain unmanned, automated, robotic, or electromechanical equipment.
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
Computer networks are critical parts of almost every organization. Network and computer systems administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operation of these networks.
Sales Engineers
Sales engineers sell complex scientific and technological products or services to businesses. They must have extensive knowledge of the products’ parts
5. LAW
The world of lawyers is however quite vast, it is one profession that cuts easily across many other disciplines, be it the arts, social sciences, and even the core sciences. There is virtually any sphere of life that the law doesn’t have its tentacles. Legal education itself is very qualitatively and innately broad, it prepares the sound mind for the ability to stretch and contrast to accommodate the knowledge of varying complexities. While the serotypes are that lawyers are trained to argue or at its ridiculous extreme, lie, the assertion is quite far from the truth. Lawyers are trained to think, and problem-solve with facts that are often incomplete, skewed and convoluted! Lawyers are indispensable, the world indeed is in dare need of the skills and adaptability of lawyers. limiting our sphere of influence to just the law courts is not a judicious use of cerebral resources. The world needs thinkers, no surprise lawyers hold very important positions across the world.
Despite the prospect of these “learned lots”, the rate of unemployment and indeed underemployment of lawyers is very high in Nigeria. A country that manufactures these brilliant minds in their thousands every year. Sometimes I wonder where all these recent law graduate disappears to! Disappointingly, many of these law graduates end up abandoning the profession to chase a living. Legal education is no longer affordable for an average student and to subject parents to stipends and allowances after getting such expensive certificates can be heartbreaking. No wonder many young lawyers after 6 years of education often seek other passions; tailors, singers, traders and general “hustlers”. I do not in any way denigrate these legitimate kinds of work/profession, for those who engage in them because it is their real passion and first love, I believe they need great encouragement and support and I do wish them well. Regardless of what they currently do, when their passion finally pays off, their law certificate will still and always be immensely valuable to their calling.
However, for those who have abandoned the wig and gown to “chase bread”, I have some tips that I believe can help “move the ministry forward”!
Firstly, for those who have a passion for practice and can slog it out with our seniors in the courts while still sitting at the backbench, keep it up! Eventually, it will pay off, particularly if you have the tenacity, tact and little connections that make the process less exhausting. If the bench is what appeals to you, kindly do the needful, get in as a magistrate if you can or wait diligently in private practice or work as a civil servant, wait for your turn and hope it works!
For those who are convinced the practice life is not their thing and are willing to explore the larger seas of the world of lawyering, here are several opportunities your law degree can offer which can help to launch a great career outside of the traditional wig and gown. The ones below are just a few among many scenarios. I will include a brief description of the prospects, entry requirements and global outlook.
Management consulting- Organizations like KPMG, Accenture, PWC, Ernest, and Young and many others have a sizable number of lawyers on their payroll, providing services ranging from general business advisory, company secretaryship, mergers and acquisitions, taxation, finance and foreign direct investment among others. With good analytical skills, great attitude/aptitude and the drive to succeed, these organizations provide good training and development opportunities for all graduates who are willing to learn fast, adapt and pull their weight. Working in any of these organizations also provides a solid springboard to lunch one’s career in corporate legal services or as a specialized legal consultant in a wide range of business areas. They may however require minimum a 2:1, age restrictions for entry (Which is another subject of discussion entirely) and strong numeric skills.
Tax Advisory– There is a regulatory and compliance regime for taxation in Nigeria. Like many countries. In fact, taxation is one of the major drivers of the economy from the federal government to the local government, taxation accounts for a significant portion of government budgeting and expenditure. On the corporate level, company tax can often be convoluted and multi-levelled especially organizations that have multi-unit structures and operate out of urban areas like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. Taxation also sometimes depends on the sector of the economy, size of the organization and its financial status. The implication of tax can be quite significant, hence the need for experienced tax professionals which includes lawyers providing professional and legal advisory and compliance services. The Chartered Institute of Taxation in Nigeria is a body that provides training and certification in taxation, the membership and certification under this body provide professional tax knowledge which will make a law graduate very desirable in both public and private sector.
Regulatory and Compliance– There is also ample opportunity for lawyers to work in regulatory and compliance departments of private and public organizations. The stock exchange, telecommunications, mining, oil and gas, food and drugs processing, production and so on all have regulatory and compliance obligations to various regulatory bodies. Apart from that, the various statutory regulatory bodies keep a strong team of lawyers who oversee the implementation and enforcement of their statutory mandates. NCC, NUC, and FAAN are examples of such regulatory bodies. Although getting into these organizations might require additional knowledge, a postgraduate degree in specialized areas of law, it provides a good career path for law graduates.
The Insurance Industry– the insurance industry is very lucrative and unique, so also is the law governing the practice of insurance and its regulatory provisions. Upon the occurrence of the act or event insured against, several issues come to light. Insurance adjusters on the side of the insurer and insurance adjudicators on the other spectrum, all working in tandem to ensure that the insured gets the value-form his/her insurance when the need eventually arises. Due to the conflict and sometimes contractual issues that arise from the insurance transactions, often the knowledge and aptitude a lawyer fit in naturally. Negotiation, problem-solving, and dispute resolution skills are needed to be successful in the insurance world. Many lawyers find the insurance industry as a good career path both as in-house counsel, insurance adjusters and litigation counsel for clients pursuing insurance claims
Law enforcement, Military, and National Security- I know many learned colleagues who ended up with the Nigerian Police, the DSS and different arms of the military. Not only as officers working in legal departments but in management, operations and even combat. The Nigerian military short service program encourages lawyers to apply. With the military’s own pseudo-judicial system, it sure enjoys the presence of lawyers in the system. Lawyers also work as trainers and instructors on matters of criminal law, international law and diplomacy, judicial process, constitutional law, and fundamental human rights. In the police force, lawyers work in different ranks and operational formations across the country, many prosecutors for the police in magistrate courts and the various states department of public prosecutions are lawyers. Employees with legal education in many of these government institutions do make it to the top much faster because of the complexity of the assignments that are often given.
Investment Banking and the Stock Exchange– The stock exchange is another unique organization catering for the need of many high-profile businesses in the country. It has a lot of oversights covering regulatory, compliance and sanctioning. It is a critical piece of the economy whose health is sometimes measured by the activity on the floor of the exchange. Lawyers work in a different capacity in the stock exchange. The capital market is heavily reliant of the skills, expertise, and ability of business and investment lawyers to ensure that the economic activities through the floor of the house are ethically, legally and in compliance with all forms of regulations. There are lawyers who also work in investment banking, focusing mainly on business law, providing risk advisory for securities, investment transactions and commerce. This field is particularly suitable for lawyers with acute business acumen and interest in corporate law.
Realtors and Property Consultants- Perhaps there is no other profession closely related to real estate business than the legal profession. The acquisition and disposition of property has always been the exclusive preserve of the profession for ages. However, beyond just “writing agreements” for buyers and sellers, there is much value lawyers could bring into this sector. There are lawyers who specialize in commercial property, some in luxury homes and others focus on developing estates out of newly opened virgin lands. Whichever one you decide to go into, there is a significant return and good income if you put in the work!
Human Resources, Employee Relations, and Labour Relations– There is no shortage of opportunities for lawyers in the human resources space. There is a lot of openings to explore even as a fresh law graduate. The training and aptitude of the legal profession create a lot of transferable skills set that organizations are looking for in their human resources/ people & culture group. Personally, I have benefited immensely in my career as a people and culture & labour relations specialist because of my legal background which in a couple of occasions been the deciding factor in my selection for roles and growth opportunities. The world of labour relations is filled with grievances, arbitrations, mediations and sometimes full-on litigation, the insight and value of an in-house specialist with a legal background is often a sweet deal for many employers. If you are a lawyer and working with, developing and helping people to succeed in their career is your thing, then think HR and LR. A combination of certifications in HR, membership of relevant HR professional bodies, postgraduate education in HR or an LL.M in Employment Law and Labour relations will definitely move you to the front of the line.
Legislative Executives – The business of law-making is quite tedious and legalistic. Legislative houses have professionals retained on staff who sits on committee meetings and often works with eternal retained counsels for advisory, draftsmanship and general legislative consulting. For those who love the appeal of politics mixed with constitutional law practice without having to work in the traditional law office environment or sitting on the bench in the judiciary, this might be a perfect alternative. The principle of legislative intent, draftsmanship and the tedious approval process is not complete without the hearts and minds of lawyers who understand bot the jurisprudence and the practicality of the legislative process. Getting in here can be a very difficult one, which might require some sort of political affiliation and connection. However, it always starts with a desire.
Public Policy advocacy– If you are passionate about social justice and think advocacy looks good on you, why not. There are many lawyers who work in this space, and don’t let public perception fool you, these legal angels still make a good living too. Affiliation with the larger international community, specialized government funds, and private sector support keep them going. While they might not be “creating wealth” they sure provide a significant balance and sometimes life preserving service to their clients. A desire to change the world one case at a time, a strong passion for human rights and advocacy, participation in several fellowships and a master’s degree in human rights and advocacy will sure create a good profile.
Of course, there is never a guarantee of securing a job after graduation in any of these areas or organizations and in the current job market competing and distinguishing yourself as a suitable candidate might mean that you have graduated with honours, prizes and even scholarships. Also, just a degree is not enough for many entry-level positions, masters degree makes a lot of difference in 2020. Regardless, the knowledge of their existence is often sometimes enough information for someone to chart a career path! Some organizations require more qualifications and aptitude to get in, while some will still provide structured training and development before you can get up to speed in their environment. Some organizations will require specialized certification, postgraduate degree or even some non-law related skills and abilities. To each, their own process, notwithstanding, these opportunities still exist and will always be open to those who are ready to make the move and “offer the right sacrifice”
Once again, the above list is in no way exhaustive, the opportunities are seemingly endless for lawyers. Thus, before deciding which of these areas or sectors to explore, you need to think of the long-term job satisfaction, personal development, and stability.
If all the boxes check right, then be assured that you are about to venture some miles away from the marked path of motions, affidavits, adjournments, courts dates and occasionally insufferable scenarios at the bar and bench. You might miss that life, certainly, I do sometimes, but then, you will be building your career for life
Career Opportunities For Lawyers
The legal profession is one of the best careers to undertake in Nigeria. The major reason for this is that opportunities are vast for their graduates, as they can seek to work in government offices and in other alternatives like corporate law, patent, and so forth. With a law degree, it opens professional choices in various different fields of managerial, corporate and legal administrations.
There are numerous openings for law graduate as they can either work in the law court or can likewise work with corporate firms, in the Public Service, as a Solicitor General or a Public Prosecutor. Working with circular newspapers or Radio/TV media or teaching law in schools is another of the opportunities available in the profession.
The government Civil Service offers opportunities to lawyers who are willing to replicate their legal skills in offices. Their job description involves working with various ministries and also with the extended agencies.
This career is better due to the fact that you will be employed with the government rather than going on a private enterprise as the case for most lawyers in the country.
Also, lawyers in the public service are employed to teach the profession in schools of learning.
Legal Publisher
A law degree can open entryways in becoming a distributor of legal publications. What’s needed here involves efficiency, research and the ability to meet what the users and readers need.
Looking at this career in a broad way, it is a good way to display your legal prowess if you want to excell with ease in the legal industry.
Management Consultant
The management and board of any institution requires diagnostic consultant who can work with the company in exercising and executing the consulting functions in the work place. To become a legal consultant, great research abilities are fundamental.
Your customers anticipate that you should find a workable pace with their industry and business in record time. Nonetheless, this career path is as lucrative as it bring you to the power of the enterprise.
Solicitors
A solicitor is a legal expert who manages more issues in the court of law. A aspirant who wishes to see into being a solicitor must have legal characterized capabilities. They will have to study the law course in the college before going to the law school to be trained.
Barrister
A Barrister is more like a legal advisor and they have special functions which involves: taking cases for courts and councils, drafting legal proceedings, looking into thinking, theory and history of law, and offering master legal thoughts to the law court. This profession is more than the basic law experience, as it requires more knowledge from the former.
Company Secretary
The company secretary, which is often referred to as a corporate secretary, is liable for keeping up important records for businesses and for Board of Directors. This legal professional has law experience and is answerable for prompting the board on legal necessities for the organization just as for marking lawful records. Company or corporate is secretaries does just as a normal secretary but differs in the aspect of handling legal recordings for the institution.
Legal Analyst
Legal is yet another career opportunity in the law industry. These lawyers are legal experts who back or help attorneys or groups of lawyers in exercising their functions. They lead legal research, collect archives and proofing, keep up databases and track, arrange, survey and record reports of the cases.
Legal Advisor
A Legal Advisor is basically a legal professional who gives legal direction or advises to an enterprise. They additionally give general legitimate exhortation about corporate choices in regards to corporate development, mergers or different practices. Legal Advisors work in the branches of the courts as a private adviser.
Stockbroker
A stockbroker is an expert in the legal profession who executes purchase and sell orders for stocks and different protections for the benefit of customers. Simply referred to as ‘broker’, they broke the stock of the business for their clients. A stockbroker may likewise be an investment adviser for the institutions they work with .
Government Lawyers
Having a career here is preferred for one reason that government lawyers work with the government in formulating legal issues. They work for state lawyers general, open safeguards, head prosecutors, and the courts. And at the federal level, they examine cases for the Ministry of Justice and other government lawful organizations.
Legal Data Analyst
In the law industry, Data Analysts are legal authorities who back and assist in conducting research, utilize lawful information, records and evidence, keep up databases. The work of analyst is also extended to track, compose, survey and document archives of legal records.
Chartered Accountant
As a Chattered Accountant, your work will be to take on various explicit exercises inside the range of accounting. Their work includes reviewing of financial and fiscal summaries, documenting of corporate expense forms and money related prompting among other work related to the office.
Judge
This is the highest job in the legal profession. Becoming a judge entails spending more effort and time in the law industry before making it to the top. A judge by definition is a legal personnel who directs court proceedings, either alone or as a team.
The duty of the judge is to settle a legal cases in a last and open way, and hence attest the standard of law which his or her judgment will be the final. These category of legal practitioners has legislative force and powers.
They can order the police, military or legal authorities to execute, look, capture and detain culprits who are found guilty. Interestingly, judges are the most paid are employed by the government.
6. PHARMACY
Pharmacists dispense prescription medications to patients and offer expertise in the safe use of prescriptions.
Work Environment: Pharmacists work in pharmacies, including those in drug, general merchandise, and grocery stores. Pharmacists also work in hospitals and other healthcare facilities.
How to Become One: Pharmacists must have a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.), a professional degree program. Pharmacists must also be licensed, which requires passing two exams
Related Careers: Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of pharmacists with similar occupations.
Following is everything you need to know about a career as a Pharmacist with lots of details. As a first step, take a look at some of the following Pharmacist jobs, which are real jobs with real employers. You will be able to see the very real job career requirements for employers who are actively hiring. The link will open in a new tab so that you can come back to this page to continue reading about the career:
What Pharmacists Do
Pharmacists dispense prescription medications to patients and offer expertise in the safe use of prescriptions. They also may conduct health and wellness screenings, provide immunizations, oversee the medications given to patients, and provide advice on healthy lifestyles.
Duties of Pharmacists
Pharmacists typically do the following:
Fill prescriptions, verifying instructions from physicians on the proper amounts of medication to give to patients
Check whether prescriptions will interact negatively with other drugs that a patient is taking or any medical conditions the patient has
Instruct patients on how and when to take a prescribed medicine and inform them about potential side effects from taking the medicine
Give flu shots and, in most states, other vaccinations
Advise patients about general health topics, such as diet, exercise, and managing stress, and on other issues, such as what equipment or supplies would be best to treat a health problem
Complete insurance forms and work with insurance companies to ensure that patients get the medicines they need
Oversee the work of pharmacy technicians and pharmacists in training (interns)
Keep records and do other administrative tasks
Teach other healthcare practitioners about proper medication therapies for patients
Some pharmacists who own their pharmacy or manage a chain pharmacy spend time on business activities, such as inventory management. With most drugs
pharmacists use standard dosages from pharmaceutical companies. However, some pharmacists create customized medications by mixing ingredients themselves, a process known as compounding.
The following are examples of types of pharmacists:
Community pharmacists work in retail stores such as chain drug stores or independently owned pharmacies.
They dispense medications to patients and answer any questions that patients may have about prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, or any health concerns that the patient may have.
They also may provide some primary care services such as giving flu shots.
Clinical pharmacists work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. They spend little time dispensing prescriptions. Instead, they are involved in direct patient care.
Clinical pharmacists may go on rounds in a hospital with a physician or healthcare team. They recommend medications to give to patients and oversee the dosage and timing of the delivery of those medications.
They also may conduct some medical tests and offer advice to patients. For example, pharmacists working in a diabetes clinic may counsel patients on how and when to take medications, suggest healthy food choices, and monitor patients’ blood sugar.
Consultant pharmacists advise healthcare facilities or insurance providers on patient medication use or improving pharmacy services. They also may give advice directly to patients, such as helping seniors manage their prescriptions.
Pharmaceutical industry pharmacists work in areas such as marketing, sales, or research and development. They may design or conduct clinical drug trials and help to develop new drugs. They may also help to establish safety regulations and ensure quality control for drugs.
Some pharmacists work as college professors. They may teach pharmacy students or conduct research. For more information, see the profile on postsecondary teachers.
Work Environment For Pharmacists
Pharmacists hold about 321,700 jobs. The largest employers of pharmacists are as follows:
Pharmacies and drug stores 42%
Hospitals; state, local, and private 26%
Food and beverage stores 8%
General merchandise stores 5%
Some pharmacists work for the government and the military. In most settings, they spend much of the workday on their feet.
Pharmacist Work Schedules
Most pharmacists work full time. Because many pharmacies are open at all hours, some pharmacists work nights and weekends.
How to Become a Pharmacist.
Get the education you need: Find schools for Pharmacists near you!
Pharmacists must have a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree from an accredited pharmacy program. They must also be licensed, which requires passing licensure and law exams.
Education for Pharmacists
Prospective pharmacists are required to have a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree, a postgraduate professional degree.
Doctor of Pharmacy programs fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE).
Admissions requirements vary by program, however, all Pharm.D. programs require applicants to take postsecondary courses such as chemistry, biology, and physics. Most programs require at least 2 years of undergraduate study, although some require a bachelor’s degree. Most programs also require applicants to take the Pharmacy College Admissions Test (PCAT).
Pharm.D. programs usually take 4 years to finish, although some programs offer a 3-year option. Some schools admit high school graduates into a 6-year program. A Pharm.D. program includes courses in chemistry, pharmacology, and medical ethics. Students also complete supervised work experiences, sometimes referred to as internships, in different settings such as hospitals and retail pharmacies.
Some pharmacists who own their own pharmacy may choose to get a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) in addition to their Pharm.D. degree. Others may get a degree in public health.
Pharmacists also must take continuing education courses throughout their career to keep up with the latest advances in pharmacological science.
Pharmacist Training
Following graduation from a Pharm.D. program, pharmacists seeking an advanced position, such as a clinical pharmacy or research job, may need to complete a 1- to 2-year residency. Pharmacists who choose to complete the 2-year residency option receive additional training in a specialty area such as internal medicine or geriatric care.
Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations for Pharmacists
All states license pharmacists. After they finish the Pharm.D. program, prospective pharmacists must pass two exams to get a license. The North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam (NAPLEX) tests pharmacy skills and knowledge. The Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam (MPJE) or a state-specific test on pharmacy law is also required. Applicants also must complete a number of hours as an intern, which varies by state.
Pharmacists who administer vaccinations and immunizations need to be certified in most states. States typically use the American Pharmacists Association’s Pharmacy-Based Immunization Delivery program as a qualification for certification.
Pharmacists also may choose to earn a certification to show their advanced level of knowledge in a certain area. For instance, a pharmacist may become a Certified Diabetes Educator, a qualification offered by the National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators, or earn certification in a specialty area, such as nutrition or oncology, from the Board of Pharmacy Specialties. Certifications from both organizations require pharmacists to have varying degrees of work experience, to pass an exam, and pay a fee.
Important Qualities for Pharmacists
Analytical skills. Pharmacists must provide safe medications efficiently. To do this, they must be able to evaluate a patient’s needs and the prescriber’s orders, and have extensive knowledge of the effects and appropriate circumstances for giving out a specific medication.
Communication skills. Pharmacists frequently offer advice to patients. They might need to explain how to take medicine, for example, and what its side effects are. They also need to offer clear direction to pharmacy technicians and interns.
Computer skills. Pharmacists need computer skills in order to use any electronic health record (EHR) systems that their organization has adopted.
Detail oriented. Pharmacists are responsible for ensuring the accuracy of the prescriptions they fill. They must be able to find the information that they need to make decisions about what medications are appropriate for each patient, because improper use of medication can pose serious health risks.
Managerial skills. Pharmacists—particularly those who run a retail pharmacy—must have good managerial skills, including the ability to manage inventory and oversee a staff.
Job Outlook for Pharmacist
pharmacies and drug stores, which are expected to lose jobs as more people fill their prescriptions via mail order and online. In addition, fewer of these workers ae expected to be needed as pharmacy technicians increasingly perform tasks previously done by pharmacists, such as collecting patient information, preparing some types of medications, and verifying the work of other technicians.
However, demand is projected to increase for pharmacists in some healthcare settings, including hospitals and clinics. These facilities will need more pharmacists to oversee the medications given to patients and to provide patient care, doing tasks such as testing blood sugar or cholesterol.
Careers Related To Pharmacists.
Biochemists and Biophysicists
Biochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical principles of living things and of biological processes, such as cell development, growth, heredity, and disease.
Medical Scientists
Medical scientists conduct research aimed at improving overall human health. They often use clinical trials and other investigative methods to reach their findings.
Pharmacy Technicians
Pharmacy technicians help pharmacists dispense prescription medication to customers or health professionals.
Physicians and Surgeons
Physicians and surgeons diagnose and treat injuries or illnesses. Physicians examine patients; take medical histories; prescribe medications; and order, perform, and interpret diagnostic tests. They counsel patients on diet, hygiene, and preventive healthcare. Surgeons operate on patients to treat injuries, such as broken bones; diseases, such as cancerous tumors; and deformities, such as cleft palates.
Registered Nurses
Registered nurses (RNs) provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients and the public about various health conditions, and provide advice and emotional support to patients and their family members.
7. ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL
The Financial Services Industry
Financial Planning
Corporate Finance
Commercial Banking
Investment Banking
Hedge Funds
Private Equity, Venture Capital
Insurance
Public Accounting
Making the Right Choic.
A career in finance isn’t all about money, though it starts there. For the business graduate, earning a degree is just the beginning. What’s left is to take a closer look at the available career options and then to measure which industry sectors have the greatest need for new professionals. It’s also important to consider your own interests and strengths as you discern the type of work that you’d enjoy and at which you would excel.
The Financial Services Industry
The financial services industry is multifaceted, offering a variety of positions that cater to different skills and interests, along with sub-industries that encompass niche opportunities. Researching the possibilities in financial services will help you to land the job that has is most compatible with your interests and skills. The same is true for professionals who are seeking a career change and who want to give a new sector a shot. The sectors below represent some of the more common career paths in the financial services industry.
Financial Planning
Financial planners help individuals develop plans that will ensure their present and future financial stability. Typically, they review a client’s financial goals and generate an appropriate plan for saving and investing that fits the client’s individual needs. The plan may focus on wealth preservation or investment growth and may even include estate and tax planning.
Most financial planners work in either large, nationwide groups or in smaller, locally based firms. Some planners charge a flat fee, and others charge a percentage of the client’s assets under management (AUM), where they receive commissions on the products they sell—like mutual funds.
Generally, financial planners with the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation are the most in-demand, as their training is rigorous. They must attain 6,000 hours of financial planning experience, pass several exams—including a two-day, 10-hour case-study exam—and meet continuing education (CE) requirements.1
Breaking Into Finance? This Executive VP Has Some Advice
Corporate Finance
Corporate finance jobs involve working for a company in the capacity of finding and managing the capital necessary to run the enterprise. This is done while maximizing corporate value and reducing financial risk.
In a company’s corporate finance department, you may:
Devise the company’s overall financial strategy
Forecast profits and losses
Negotiate lines of credit
Prepare financial statements
Coordinate with outside auditors
More sophisticated corporate finance jobs might involve mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity, such as calculating the value of an acquisition target or gauging the wisdom of spinning off a particular division of the company. Corporate finance positions exist in companies of all sizes, from large international entities to small startups. The roles of financial analysts, treasurers, and internal auditors also come under the umbrella of corporate finance.
Commercial Banking
Commercial banks from large entities to local institutions offer a wide range of financial services, from checking and savings accounts to individual retirement accounts (IRAs) and loans. Positions in the commercial banking sector include bank tellers, loan officers, operations, marketing, and branch managers.
Talented professionals can advance from a local branch job to a position in a bank’s corporate headquarters, where such a promotion would expose you to other areas of commercial banking, such as international finance.
Investment Banking
Some of the most glamorous—and intense—financial careers are jobs in investment banking. Investment banking jobs facilitate new issuance of corporate securities and bring them to market for investors to purchase. Investment banks also trade securities and advise both corporations and wealthy individual investors.
Typically, investment banking firms have numerous divisions and groups with different objectives and responsibilities. Working in a traditional investment bank would allow you to interact with issuers of securities, and M&A professionals. You might even work on the trading desk, trading stocks, bonds, and other securities in the secondary market. Or, you could become a qualitative research analyst in either stock research, corporate bonds, or other fixed-income securities.
Hedge Funds
Hedge funds are largely unregulated private investment funds whose managers can buy or sell a wide array of assets and financial products. Because of the mystery that surrounds this type of entity, hedge fund jobs are also considered by many to be somewhat glamorous.
Typical hedge fund jobs include:
Financial analyst
Trader
Regulatory compliance officer
Quantitative analyst
Marketing manager
Portfolio manager
Private Equity, Venture Capital
Private equity professionals help businesses find capital for both expansion and current operations. They also provide financing for a number of corporate business transactions, such as managed buyouts and restructurings.
At times, a private-equity job may involve working as an interim executive at a struggling company, where your success helps determine the fate of the company.
Venture capital (VC) professionals spend most of their time with startups or small, fast-growth companies. Venture capital firms evaluate the pitches by founders and small-company leaders to determine if the firm will make an investment. Sometimes referred to as “vulture capitalists,” VCs are known to structure deals that favor the investor, not the company receiving funding.
The hope of the VC is that the funded company will someday go public—that is, make their stock available in the public stock market. The venture capital business is tough: The failure rate is high, but the rewards, if they are realized, can be huge.
Insurance
A job in the insurance sector could involve helping businesses and individuals anticipate potential risks, then try to protect themselves from losses. Most insurance jobs are with large insurance companies. You could begin a career in this sector working as a sales rep selling insurance policies, as a customer service rep working with existing clients, or as an actuary computing risks and premium rates according to probabilities based on historical, quantitative data sets.
Public Accounting
Public accounting is a broad field with many opportunities. Certified public accountants (CPAs) help businesses and individuals keep track of their finances according to generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Public accountants record business transactions, help prepare financial statements, audit financial records, prepare income tax returns, and provide related consulting services.
Accountants generally work in partnerships. The largest partnerships are known as the Big Four (previously the Big Eight and the Big Six) and include Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Ernst & Young, and KPMG. But many jobs also exist in many smaller firms. Typically, new hires start as a staff accountant, then advance to audit manager, then tax manager and, eventually, if they can maintain the tough working schedule for many years, a partner in the firm.
Making the Right Choice
To effectively pursue jobs with the highest probability of success, you must measure the demand for the position. Do the research first to discover your options. The time spent uncovering the most interesting possibilities can be time saved working in a job that just doesn’t fit.
Different financial jobs require different skills and present vastly different work environments, so it’s wise to select one that aligns with your long-term interests and abilities. Someone with solid interpersonal skills, for example, might do well as a financial advisor, while someone who enjoys crunching numbers might do better in public accounting.
Top Finance and Accounting Jobs
1. Controller
Controllers and assistant controllers prepare financial statements and reports that summarize and forecast a business’s activity and financial position. They may also develop internal policies and procedures for an organization’s budget administration, cash and credit management, and accounting functions.
2. Financial Manager
Financial managers are responsible for the financial health of an organization. They generate financial reports and develop strategies to help meet the long-term financial goals of their organization.
3. Management Consultant
Management consultants, also known as management analysts, propose improvements for operational efficiencies, in an effort to make organizations more profitable through reduced costs and increased revenues.
4. Personal Financial Advisor
Financial advisors help their clients understand the health of their finances and make personal investment decisions. They monitor the state of clients’ investments and finances and can provide advice on insurance, mortgages, college savings, estate planning, taxes, and retirements
5. Financial Analyst
Financial analysts examine an organization’s financial data. By analyzing past financial and investment data, as well as estimating future revenues and expenditures, they can provide guidance to businesses making investment decisions and forecasting for the future.
6. Treasury Analyst
Treasury analysts monitor an organization’s financial activity, including cash flow, liabilities, and assets. They analyze budgets, expenses, and future investments to decide whether payments coming to and from the company are being processed properly.
7. Accounting Manager
Accounting managers oversee the operations of an organization’s accounting department. They analyze and report financial information, assist with tax processing, and create financial statements to present to the company’s board of directors.
8. Budget Analyst
Budget analysts help companies organize their finances, prepare budget reports, and monitor institutional spending. They regularly review an organization’s financial plans for completeness, accuracy, and conformance with regulations and organizational objectives.
9. Senior Tax Accountant
Tax accountants prepare federal, state, and local tax returns for individuals, businesses, or other organizations.
10. Accountant
Accountants prepare, maintain, and examine the accuracy of financial statements for an organization. They ensure all financial records, such as balance sheets, income and loss statements, cash flow statements, and tax returns, are compliant with federal laws, regulations, and generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). They are also responsible for identifying and resolving any discrepancies in records, statements, or documented transactions.
11. Auditor
Internal auditors and audit managers identify financial and business risks and assess compliance with government regulations. They evaluate existing internal controls, identify areas for improvement, and may coordinate the implementation of internal improvement efforts.
12. Credit Analyst
These professionals review and analyze financial information from sources such as reporting services, credit bureaus, and bank branches to evaluate the profitability of loan requests and approve or deny loan applications.
Skills for Finance and Accounting Careers
Borgida says that the key to success in any of these careers is to develop an interdisciplinary skill set that focuses on finance, technology, and communication.
“Successful professionals in the field are critical thinkers,” she says. “They’re analysts, problem solvers, and effective communicators that combine financial knowledge, technical aptitude, and interpersonal skill to solve complex business problems.”
According to Burning Glass Technologies, the skills in greatest demand among financial professionals include:
Financial analysis
Accounting
Sales
Financial management and reporting
Project management
Technology skills
Data analytics
Borgida notes that even for those who have already been in the industry for some time, emerging technologies are requiring people to sharpen and update their skill set. One way to gain the necessary skills, she says, is to complete your bachelor’s degree.
After earning
By earning a degree, you’ll have a pulse on market trends, learn best practices from industry professionals, grow a robust network, and gain the most relevant and up-to-date skills you need to succeed in the field. As more and more students compete for entry into one of the fastest-growing and most critical areas of management.
To learn more about earning your finance and accounting management degree, explore our program page or request more information.
Read Also :8 Best Nigerian Professors And Their Outstanding Achievements In The World
8. AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING
Careers You Can Have With A Degree In Aeronautical Engineering
In an aeronautical engineering degree, you will learn how aircrafts are designed, constructed and powered, how they are used and how they are controlled for safe operation.
Aeronautical engineering degrees are often taught through a combination of theory and practice. This is the case for Northwestern Polytechnical University (NPU) in Mainland China, which places a strong focus on integrated learning, research and practical application.
After completing their aeronautical engineering undergraduate degree, graduates typically go on to a wide range of roles: from working in in the aerospace industry to taking on roles in other branches of engineering or continuing their education in the form of a master’s or a PhD.
Read on to discover the many career options available to you with an aeronautical degree.
Aerodynamics engineer
Aerodynamics engineers focus on planning aircraft tests and analysing aero physics, exploring the suitability of different materials in aircrafts, testing designs and presenting research to their teams. Aerodynamics engineers work closely with the air safety, legal, marketing and customer service teams to ensure cohesion in their work.
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In addition to your degree, employers in this role often expect graduates to have experience in aerodynamic analysis. Although this can be learnt in your degree, it is best learnt in an internship or other work placement in the industry.
Northwestern Polytechnical University’s School of Aeronautics provides extensive guidance and support for students looking to gain experience in industry. The school has strong connections with a variety of aircraft industry leaders, such as AVIC Changhe Aircraft Industry, and helps students find work placements in their chosen role.
Design engineer
If you’re looking to combine your engineering knowledge with creativity, design engineering might be the career for you. As a design engineer you will be developing ideas and doing research into new products to find out how they’re made. You will work to make the products cost effective to produce and ensure they are safe to use. Alongside this, you will be constantly working to improve existing products’ efficiency and their performance.
Design engineers work on almost every consumer product out there, but many aeronautical engineering graduates choose to work on aircrafts. For example, several NPU aeronautics degree graduates have gone on to become chief and general designers of aircrafts.
Aeronautical engineer
As an aeronautical engineer, you will design and test products for aircrafts, spacecrafts, satellites and missiles. You will handle testing and creating prototypes, using software design tools for testing and training, alongside coordinating teams.
To be successful in this role, you will need to be a good communicator, a good problem solver and be able to work well within a team. This role requires complex knowledge of aeronautical engineering that you will learn throughout your degree.
Northwestern Polytechnical University’s School of Aeronautics offers various experimental classes focusing on fundamental knowledge and concepts, design and practice, and innovation in aeronautics, helping you build up the skills and experience needed to be successful in the industry.
Engineering consultant
Engineering consultants supply engineering advice to clients across the world about different projects. Day-to-day, you will be meeting clients, coordinating teams, and developing project plans.
For this role you will need strong engineering knowledge, particularly in your specific field of engineering, as well as exceptional organisational skills and excellent problem-solving skills.
At NPU, the School of Aeronautics has state of the art research areas to help students develop the transferrable skills needed in engineering careers. It teaches students through a combination of theory and practical elements.
One NPU student said: “I learn theories and apply them in practice here at the School of Aeronautics. I can also learn a new language and experience the rich culture here”.
Electrical engineer
Electrical engineer design and develop electrical products to fit customer requirements and ensure they comply with the latest regulations. They should ensure the quality of the product by conducting thorough testing for different electrical systems and machinery.
Electrical engineers are usually involved throughout the full process of projects, from the first design to the testing and handover stage. An engineering degree is essential for this role, due to the strong technical abilities needed.
Buyers and procurement officers
Buyers and procurement officers handle the purchasing goods or services from manufacturers, importers, wholesalers and other sources for internal use or wholesale distribution. You will negotiate the contract with the supplier and try to get the best price for the product or service.
For this role you will need to be good at communicating and building interpersonal relationships, extremely organised and good at problem solving.
CNC programmers for the aerospace industry
As a Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) programmer, you will be operating factory machines to turn materials into functional components for the aerospace industry. You will do this by reading technical blueprints and inputting the product design into the computer modelling software, adjusting the machine settings to meet the desired specifications.
This is a very technical role which will be supported by your training in aeronautical engineering. You will often be working to strict deadlines so working well under pressure is essential. Other required skills include effective communication, interpersonal and time management skills.
CAD technician
CAD technicians use CAD software to create and draw technical plans for products used in engineering industries. This role requires strong engineering, IT, and mathematical knowledge, as you will be using these skills to design machinery, products, and parts.
You will work alongside architects and design engineers to turn their initial designs into detailed technical drawings which will be used throughout the project.
Finance graduate schemes
Although finance may not be a typical career path for engineering students, there are a vast number of finance graduate schemes across all sectors available to graduates of any discipline. Aeronautical engineering graduates will put their numerical and analytical skills to use in these roles.
Finance roles are also looking for graduates with an eye for detail, who keep up with trends in the sector and are great problem solvers – all skills you will learn in an aeronautical engineering degree. You can either decide to pursue a traditional finance scheme, or go into banking, accounting, or insurance.
If any of these careers interest you, you might be interested in completing a degree in aeronautical engineering.
Northwestern Polytechnical University in Xi’an, Mainland China is one of the top universities to study an aeronautical engineering degree. At NPU’s School of Aeronautics there are three different degrees in aeronautical engineering available at undergraduate level and two at postgraduate level.
Whether you’re interested in aircraft design, control engineering or aeronautical structure engineering, you’ll be able to find a programme at Northwestern Polytechnical University to suit you.
Engineers
Aerospace engineers typically do the following:
Direct and coordinate the design, manufacture, and testing of aircraft and aerospace products
Assess proposals for projects to determine if they are technically and financially feasible
Determine if proposed projects will result in safe operations that meet the defined goals
Evaluate designs to see that the products meet engineering principles, customer requirements, and environmental regulations
Develop acceptance criteria for design methods, quality standards, sustainment after delivery, and completion dates
Ensure that projects meet quality standards
Inspect malfunctioning or damaged products to identify sources of problems and possible solutions
Aerospace engineers may develop new technologies for use in aviation, defense systems, and spacecraft. They often specialize in areas such as aerodynamic fluid flow; structural design; guidance, navigation, and control; instrumentation and communication; robotics; and propulsion and combustion.
Aerospace engineers can specialize in designing different types of aerospace products, such as commercial and military airplanes and helicopters; remotely piloted aircraft and rotorcraft; spacecraft, including launch vehicles and satellites; and military missiles and rockets.
Aerospace engineers often become experts in one or more related fields: aerodynamics, thermodynamics, materials, celestial mechanics, flight mechanics, propulsion, acoustics, and guidance and control systems.
Aerospace engineers typically specialize in one of two types of engineering: aeronautical or astronautical.
Aeronautical engineers work with aircraft. They are involved primarily in designing aircraft and propulsion systems and in studying the aerodynamic performance of aircraft and construction materials. They work with the theory, technology, and practice of flight within the Earth’s atmosphere.
Astronautical engineers work with the science and technology of spacecraft and how they perform inside and outside the Earth’s atmosphere. This includes work on small satellites such as cubesats, and traditional large satellites.
Aeronautical and astronautical engineers face different environmental and operational issues in designing aircraft and spacecraft. However, the two fields overlap a great deal because they both depend on the basic principles of physics.
Work Environment for Aerospace Engineers
Aerospace engineers hold about 66,400 jobs. The largest employers of aerospace engineers are as follows:
Aerospace product and parts manufacturing 36%
Federal government, excluding postal service 16%
Engineering services 15%
Navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instruments manufacturing 10%
Research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences 8%
Aerospace engineers are employed in industries in which workers design or build aircraft, missiles, systems for national defense, or spacecraft. They work primarily for firms that engage in manufacturing, analysis and design, research and development, and for the federal government.
Aerospace engineers now spend more of their time in an office environment than they have in the past, because modern aircraft design requires the use of sophisticated computer equipment and software design tools, modeling, and simulations for tests, evaluation, and training.
Aerospace engineers work with other professionals involved in designing and building aircraft, spacecraft, and their components. Therefore, they must be able to communicate well, divide work into manageable tasks, and work with others toward a common goal.
Aerospace Engineer Work Schedules
Aerospace engineers typically work full time. Engineers who direct projects must often work extra hours to monitor progress, to ensure that designs meet requirements, to determine how to measure aircraft performance, to see that production meets design standards, to participate in test flights and first flights, and to ensure that deadlines are met.
How to Become an Aerospace Engineer.
Get the education you need: Find schools for Aerospace Engineers near you!
Aerospace engineers must have a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or another field of engineering or science related to aerospace systems. Aerospace engineers who work on projects that are related to national defense may need a security clearance. U.S. citizenship may be required for certain types and levels of clearance.
Education for Aerospace Engineers
Entry-level aerospace engineers usually need a bachelor’s degree. High school students interested in studying aerospace engineering should take courses in chemistry, physics, advanced math, and computer programming and computer languages.
Bachelor’s degree programs include classroom, laboratory, and field studies in subjects such as general engineering principles, propulsion, stability and control, structures, mechanics, and aerodynamics, which is the study of how air interacts with moving objects.
Some colleges and universities offer cooperative programs in partnership with regional businesses, which give students practical experience while they complete their education. Cooperative programs and internships enable students to gain valuable experience and to finance part of their education.
At some universities, a student can enroll in a 5-year program that leads to both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree upon completion. A graduate degree will allow an engineer to work as an instructor at a university or to do research and development. Programs in aerospace engineering are accredited by ABET.
Important Qualities for Aerospace Engineers
Analytical skills.Aerospace engineers must be able to identify design elements that may not meet requirements and then must formulate alternatives to improve the performance of those elements.
Business skills.Much of the work done by aerospace engineers involves meeting federal government standards. Meeting these standards often requires knowledge of standard business practices, as well as knowledge of commercial law. Additionally, project management or systems engineering skills can be useful.
Critical-thinking skills.Aerospace engineers must be able to produce designs that meet governmental standards, and to figure out why a particular design does not work. They must be able to ask the right question, then find an acceptable answer.
Math skills.Aerospace engineers use the principles of calculus, trigonometry, and other advanced topics in math for analysis, design, and troubleshooting in their work.
Problem-solving skills. Aerospace engineers use their education and experience to upgrade designs and troubleshoot problems when meeting new demands for aircraft, such as increased fuel efficiency or improved safety.
Writing skills.Aerospace engineers must be able both to write papers that explain their designs clearly and to create documentation for future reference.
Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations for Aerospace Engineers
Licensure for aerospace engineers is not as common as it is for other engineering occupations, nor it is required for entry-level positions. A Professional Engineering (PE) license, which allows for higher levels of leadership and independence, can be acquired later in one’s career. Licensed engineers are called professional engineers (PEs). A PE can oversee the work of other engineers, sign off on projects, and provide services directly to the public. State licensure generally requires
A degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program
A passing score on the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam
Relevant work experience, typically at least 4 years
A passing score on the Professional Engineering (PE) exam.
The initial FE exam can be taken after earning a bachelor’s degree. Engineers who pass this exam are commonly called engineers in training (EITs) or engineer interns (EIs). After meeting work experience requirements, EITs and EIs can take the second exam, called the Principles and Practice of Engineering.
Each state issues its own licenses. Most states recognize licensure from other states, as long as the licensing state’s requirements meet or exceed their own licensure requirements. Several states require continuing education for engineers to keep their licenses.
Other Experience for Aerospace Engineers
During high school, students can attend engineering summer camps to see what these and other engineers do. Attending these camps can help students plan their coursework for the remainder of their time in high school.
Advancement for Aerospace Engineers
Eventually, aerospace engineers may advance to become technical specialists or to supervise a team of engineers and technicians. Some may even become engineering managers or move into executive positions, such as program managers.
Job Outlook for Aerospace Engineers
Employment of aerospace engineers is projected to grow 3 percent over the next ten years, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Aircraft are being redesigned to cause less noise pollution and have better fuel efficiency, which will help sustain demand for research and development. Also, new developments in small satellites have greater commercial viability. Growing interest in unmanned aerial systems will also help drive growth of the occupation.
Job Prospects for Aerospace Engineers
Employment opportunities should be favorable for those trained in software, such as C++, or with education and experience in stress and structural engineering. Finally, the aging of workers in this occupation should help to create openings in it over the next decade.
Careers Related to Aerospace
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians
Aerospace engineering and operations technicians operate and maintain equipment used in developing, testing, producing, and sustaining new aircraft and spacecraft. Increasingly, these workers are using computer-based modeling and simulation tools and processes in their work, as well as advanced automation and robotics.
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Architectural and engineering managers plan, direct, and coordinate activities in architectural and engineering companies.
Computer Hardware Engineers
Computer hardware engineers research, design, develop, and test computer systems and components such as processors, circuit boards, memory devices, networks, and routers.
Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technicians
Electrical and electronics engineering technicians help engineers design and develop computers, communications equipment, medical monitoring devices, navigational equipment, and other electrical and electronic equipment. They often work in product evaluation and testing, and use measuring and diagnostic devices to adjust, test, and repair equipment. They are also involved in the manufacture and deployment of equipment for automation.
Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Electrical engineers design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacturing of electrical equipment, such as electric motors, radar and navigation systems, communications systems, and power generation equipment. Electronics engineers design and develop electronic equipment, including broadcast and communications systems, such as portable music players and Global Positioning System (GPS) devices.
Industrial Engineers
Industrial engineers find ways to eliminate wastefulness in production processes. They devise efficient systems that integrate workers, machines, materials, information, and energy to make a product or provide a service.
Materials Engineers
Materials engineers develop, process, and test materials used to create a wide range of products, from computer chips and aircraft wings to golf clubs and biomedical devices. They study the properties and structures of metals, ceramics, plastics, composites, nanomaterials (extremely small substances), and other substances in order to create new materials that meet certain mechanical, electrical, and chemical requirements.
Mechanical Engineers
Mechanical engineers design, develop, build, and test mechanical and thermal sensors and devices, including tools, engines, and machines.
9. MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
Duties of Mechanical Engineers
Mechanical engineers typically do the following:
Analyze problems to see how mechanical and thermal devices might help solve a particular problem
Design or redesign mechanical and thermal devices or subsystems, using analysis and computer-aided design
Investigate equipment failures or difficulties to diagnose faulty operation and to recommend remedies
Develop and test prototypes of devices they design
Analyze the test results and change the design or system as needed
Oversee the manufacturing process for the device
Mechanical engineering is one of the broadest engineering fields. Mechanical engineers design and oversee the manufacture of many products ranging from medical devices to new batteries.
Mechanical engineers design power-producing machines, such as electric generators, internal combustion engines, and steam and gas turbines, as well as power-using machines, such as refrigeration and air-conditioning systems.
Mechanical engineers design other machines inside buildings, such as elevators and escalators. They also design material-handling systems, such as conveyor systems and automated transfer stations.
Like other engineers, mechanical engineers use computers extensively. Mechanical engineers are routinely responsible for the integration of sensors, controllers, and machinery. Computer technology helps mechanical engineers create and analyze designs, run simulations and test how a machine is likely to work, interact with connected systems, and generate specifications for parts.
The following are examples of types of mechanical engineers:
Auto research engineers seek to improve the performance of cars. These engineers work to improve traditional features of cars such as suspension, and they also work on aerodynamics and new possible fuels.
Heating and cooling systems engineers work to create and maintain environmental systems wherever temperatures and humidity must be kept within certain limits. They develop such systems for airplanes, trains, cars, schools, and even computer rooms.
Robotic engineers plan, build, and maintain robots. These engineers plan how robots will use sensors for detecting things based on light or smell, and they design how these sensors will fit into the designs of the robots.
Work Environment for Mechanical Engineers.
Mechanical engineers hold about 316,300 jobs. The largest employers of mechanical engineers are as follows:
Architectural, engineering, and related services 20%
Machinery manufacturing 14%
Transportation equipment manufacturing 11%
Computer and electronic product manufacturing 7%
Scientific research and development services 6%
Mechanical engineers generally work in offices. They may occasionally visit worksites where a problem or piece of equipment needs their personal attention. In most settings, they work with other engineers, engineering technicians, and other professionals as part of a team.
Mechanical Engineer Work Schedules.
Most mechanical engineers work full time and some work more than 40 hours a week.
How to Become a Mechanical Engineer.
Get the education you need: Find schools for Mechanical Engineers near you!
Mechanical engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or mechanical engineering technology. Mechanical engineers who sell services publicly must be licensed in all states and the District of Columbia.
Education for Mechanical Engineers
Mechanical engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or mechanical engineering technology. Mechanical engineering programs usually include courses in mathematics and life and physical sciences, as well as engineering and design. Mechanical engineering technology programs focus less on theory and more on the practical application of engineering principles. They may emphasize internships and co-ops to prepare students for work in industry.
Some colleges and universities offer 5-year programs that allow students to obtain both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. Some 5-year or even 6-year cooperative plans combine classroom study with practical work, enabling students to gain valuable experience and earn money to finance part of their education.
ABET accredits programs in engineering and engineering technology. Most employers prefer to hire students from an accredited program. A degree from an ABET-accredited program is usually necessary to become a licensed professional engineer.
Important Qualities for Mechanical Engineers
Creativity. Mechanical engineers design and build complex pieces of equipment and machinery. A creative mind is essential for this kind of work.
Listening skills. Mechanical engineers often work on projects with others, such as architects and computer scientists. They must listen to and analyze different approaches made by other experts to complete the task at hand.
Math skills. Mechanical engineers use the principles of calculus, statistics, and other advanced subjects in math for analysis, design, and troubleshooting in their work.
Mechanical skills. Mechanical skills allow engineers to apply basic engineering concepts and mechanical processes to the design of new devices and systems.
Problem-solving skills. Mechanical engineers need good problem-solving skills to take scientific principles and discoveries and use them to design and build useful products.
Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations for Mechanical Engineers
Licensure is not required for entry-level positions as a mechanical engineer. A Professional Engineering (PE) license, which allows for higher levels of leadership and independence, can be acquired later in one’s career. Licensed engineers are called professional engineers (PEs). A PE can oversee the work of other engineers, sign off on projects, and provide services directly to the public. State licensure generally requires
A degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program
A passing score on the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam
Relevant work experience typically at least 4 years
A passing score on the Professional Engineering (PE) exam.
The initial FE exam can be taken after one earns a bachelor’s degree. Engineers who pass this exam are commonly called engineers in training (EITs) or engineer interns (EIs). After meeting work experience requirements, EITs and EIs can take the second exam, called the Principles and Practice of Engineering.
Several states require engineers to take continuing education to renew their licenses every year. Most states recognize licensure from other states, as long as the other state’s licensing requirements meet or exceed their own licensing requirements.
Several professional organizations offer a variety of certification programs for engineers to demonstrate competency in specific fields of mechanical engineering.
Other Experience for Mechanical Engineers
During high school students can attend engineering summer camps to see what these and other engineers do. Attending these camps can help students plan their coursework for the remainder of their time in high school.
Advancement for Mechanical Engineers
A Ph.D. is essential for engineering faculty positions in higher education, as well as for some research and development programs. Mechanical engineers may earn graduate degrees in engineering or business administration to learn new technology, broaden their education, and enhance their project management skills. Mechanical engineers may become administrators or managers after gaining work experience.
Job Outlook for Mechanical Engineers
Employment of mechanical engineers is projected to grow 4 percent over the next ten years, as fast as the average for all occupations. Mechanical engineers can work in many industries and on many types of projects. As a result, their growth rate will differ by the industries that employ them.
Mechanical engineers are projected to experience faster than average growth in engineering services as companies continue to contract work from these firms. Mechanical engineers will also remain involved in various manufacturing industries, particularly in automotive manufacturing. These engineers will play key roles in improving the range and performance of hybrid and electric cars. However, employment declines in some manufacturing industries will temper overall employment growth of mechanical engineers..
Job Prospects for Mechanical Engineers.
Prospects for mechanical engineers overall are expected to be good. They will be best for those with training in the latest software tools, particularly for computational design and simulation. Such tools allow engineers and designers to take a project from the conceptual phase directly to a finished product, eliminating the need for prototypes.
Mechanical engineering students who can learn to create virtual simulations before proceeding to the design, build, and test stages might find themselves in high demand by companies because these skills will allow firms to reduce product development cycles.
Engineers who have experience or training in three-dimensional printing also will have better job prospects.
Careers Related to Mechanical Engineers.
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Architectural and engineering managers plan, direct, and coordinate activities in architectural and engineering companies.
Drafters
Drafters use software to convert the designs of engineers and architects into technical drawings. Most workers specialize in architectural, civil, electrical, or mechanical drafting and use technical drawings to help design everything from microchips to skyscrapers.
Materials Engineers
Materials engineers develop, process, and test materials used to create a wide range of products, from computer chips and aircraft wings to golf clubs and biomedical devices. They study the properties and structures of metals, ceramics, plastics, composites, nanomaterials (extremely small substances), and other substances in order to create new materials that meet certain mechanical, electrical, and chemical requirements.
Mathematicians and Statisticians
Mathematicians and statisticians analyze data and apply mathematical and statistical techniques to help solve real-world problems in business, engineering, healthcare, or other fields.
Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians help mechanical engineers design, develop, test, and manufacture mechanical devices, including tools, engines, and machines. They may make sketches and rough layouts, record and analyze data, make calculations and estimates, and report their findings.
Natural Sciences Managers
Natural sciences managers supervise the work of scientists, including chemists, physicists, and biologists. They direct activities related to research and development, and coordinate activities such as testing, quality control, and production.
Nuclear Engineers
Nuclear engineers research and develop the processes, instruments, and systems used to derive benefits from nuclear energy and radiation. Many of these engineers find industrial and medical uses for radioactive materials—for example, in equipment used in medical diagnosis and treatment.
Petroleum Engineers
Petroleum engineers design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas from deposits below the Earth’s surface. Petroleum engineers also find new ways to extract oil and gas from older wells.
Physicists and Astronomers
Physicists and astronomers study the ways in which various forms of matter and energy interact. Theoretical physicists and astronomers may study the nature of time or the origin of the universe. Some physicists design and perform experiments with sophisticated equipment such as particle accelerators, electron microscopes, and lasers.
Sales Engineers
Sales engineers sell complex scientific and technological products or services to businesses. They must have extensive knowledge of the products’ parts and functions and must understand the scientific processes that make these products work.
10. CIVIL ENGINEERING.
Civil engineers conceive, design, build, supervise, operate, construct and maintain infrastructure projects and systems in the public and private sector, including roads, buildings, airports, tunnels, dams, bridges, and systems for water supply and sewage treatment. Many civil engineers work in planning, design, construction, research, and education.
Duties of Civil Engineers
Civil engineers typically do the following:
Analyze long range plans, survey reports, maps, and other data to plan and design projects
Consider construction costs, government regulations, potential environmental hazards, and other factors during the planning and risk-analysis stages of a project
Compile and submit permit applications to local, state, and federal agencies, verifying that projects comply with various regulations
Oversee and analyze the results of soil testing to determine the adequacy and strength of foundations
Analyze the results of tests on building materials, such as concrete, wood, asphalt, or steel, for use in particular projects
Prepare cost estimates for materials, equipment, or labor to determine a project’s economic feasibility
Use design software to plan and design transportation systems, hydraulic systems, and structures in line with industry and government standards
Perform or oversee surveying operations to establish building locations, site layouts, reference points, grades, and elevations to guide construction
Manage the repair, maintenance, and replacement of public and private infrastructure
Civil engineers also must present their findings to the public on topics such as bid proposals, environmental impact statements, or property descriptions.
Many civil engineers hold supervisory or administrative positions ranging from supervisor of a construction site to city engineer, public works director, and city manager. As supervisors, they are tasked with ensuring that safe work practices are followed at construction sites.
Other civil engineers work in design, construction, research, and teaching. Civil engineers work with others on projects and may be assisted by civil engineering technicians.
Civil engineers prepare permit documents for work on projects in renewable energy. They verify that the projects will comply with federal, state, and local requirements. These engineers conduct structural analyses for large-scale photovoltaic, or solar energy, projects. They also evaluate the ability of solar array support structures and buildings to tolerate stresses from wind, seismic activity, and other sources. For large-scale wind projects, civil engineers often prepare roadbeds to handle large trucks that haul in the turbines.
Civil engineers work on complex projects, and they can achieve job satisfaction in seeing the project reach completion. They usually specialize in one of several areas.
Construction engineers manage construction projects, ensuring that they are scheduled and built in accordance with plans and specifications. These engineers typically are responsible for the design and safety of temporary structures used during construction. They may also oversee budgetary, time-management, and communications aspects of a project.
Geotechnical engineers work to make sure that foundations for built objects ranging from streets and buildings to runways and dams, are solid. They focus on how structures built by civil engineers, such as buildings and tunnels, interact with the earth (including soil and rock). In addition, they design and plan for slopes, retaining walls, and tunnels.
Structural engineers design and assess major projects, such as buildings, bridges, or dams, to ensure their strength and durability.
Transportation engineers plan, design, operate, and maintain everyday systems, such as streets and highways, but they also plan larger projects, such as airports, ship ports, mass transit systems, and harbors.
The work of civil engineers is closely related to the work of environmental engineers.
Work Environment for Civil Engineers
employers of civil engineers are as follows:
Engineering services 49%
State government, excluding education and hospitals 12%
Local government, excluding education and hospitals 10%
Nonresidential building construction 6%
Federal government, excluding postal service 3%
Civil engineers work in a variety of locations and conditions. When working on designs, civil engineers may spend most of their time indoors in offices. However, construction engineers may spend much of their time outdoors at construction sites monitoring operations or solving onsite problems. Some jobs may require frequent relocation to different areas and offices in jobsite trailers.
Civil engineers who function as project managers may work from cars or trucks as they move from site to site. Many civil engineers work for government agencies in government office buildings or facilities. Occasionally, civil engineers travel abroad to work on large engineering projects in other countries.
Civil Engineer Work Schedules
Civil engineers typically work full time, and about 3 in 10 work more than 40 hours per week. Engineers who direct projects may need to work extra hours to monitor progress on the projects, to ensure that designs meet requirements, and to guarantee that deadlines are met.
How to Become a Civil Engineer[About this section] [To Top] Get the education you need: Find schools for Civil Engineers near you!
Civil engineers need a bachelor’s degree. They typically need a graduate degree and a license for promotion to senior positions. Although licensure requirements vary from state to state, civil engineers usually must be licensed if they provide services directly to the public.
Education for Civil Engineers.
Civil engineers need a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, in one of its specialties, or in civil engineering technology. Programs in civil engineering and civil engineering technology include coursework in math, statistics, engineering mechanics and systems, and fluid dynamics, depending on the specialty. Courses include a mix of traditional classroom learning, work in laboratories, and fieldwork. Programs may include cooperative programs, also known as co-ops, in which students gain work experience while pursuing a degree.
A degree from a program accredited by ABET is needed to earn the professional engineer (PE) license. In many states, a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering technology also meets the academic requirement for obtaining a license.
Further education after the bachelor’s degree, along with the PE license and previous experience, is helpful in getting a job as a manager. For more information on engineering managers, see the profile on architectural and engineering managers.
Important Qualities for Civil Engineers
Decisionmaking skills. Civil engineers often balance multiple and frequently conflicting objectives, such as determining the feasibility of plans with regard to financial costs and safety concerns. Urban and regional planners often look to civil engineers for advice on these issues. Civil engineers must be able to make good decisions based on best practices, their own technical knowledge, and their own experience.
Leadership skills. Civil engineers take ultimate responsibility for the projects that they manage or research that they perform. Therefore, they must be able to lead planners, surveyors, construction managers, civil engineering technicians, civil engineering technologists, and others in implementing their project plan.
Math skills. Civil engineers use the principles of calculus, trigonometry, and other advanced topics in mathematics for analysis, design, and troubleshooting in their work.
Organizational skills. Only licensed civil engineers can sign the design documents for infrastructure projects. This requirement makes it imperative that civil engineers be able to monitor and evaluate the work at the jobsite as a project progresses. That way, they can ensure compliance with the design documents. Civil engineers also often manage several projects at the same time, and thus must be able to balance time needs and to effectively allocate resources.
Problem-solving skills. Civil engineers work at the highest level of the planning, design, construction, and operation of multifaceted projects or research. The many variables involved require that they possess the ability to identify and evaluate complex problems. They must be able to then use their skill and training to develop cost-effective, safe, and efficient solutions.
Speaking skills. Civil engineers must present reports and plans to audiences of people with a wide range of backgrounds and technical knowledge. This requires the ability to speak clearly and to converse with people in various settings, and to translate engineering and scientific information into easy-to-understand concepts.
Writing skills. Civil engineers must be able to communicate with others, such as architects, landscape architects, urban and regional planners. They also must be able to explain projects to elected officials and citizens. Civil engineers must be able to write reports that are clear, concise, and understandable to those with little or no technical or scientific background.
Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations for Civil Engineers
Licensure is not required for entry-level positions as a civil engineer. A Professional Engineering (PE) license, which allows for higher levels of leadership and independence, can be acquired later in one’s career. Licensed engineers are called professional engineers (PEs). A PE can oversee the work of other engineers, approve design plans, sign off on projects, and provide services directly to the public. State licensure generally requires
A degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program
A passing score on the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam
Relevant work experience, typically at least 4 years working under a licensed engineer
A passing score on the Professional Engineering (PE) exam
The initial FE exam can be taken after earning a bachelor’s degree. Engineers who pass this exam commonly are called engineers in training (EITs) or engineer interns (EIs). After meeting work experience requirements, EITs and EIs can take the second exam, called the Principles and Practice of Engineering.
Each state issues its own licenses. Most states recognize licensure from other states, as long as the licensing state’s requirements meet or exceed their own licensure requirements. Several states require continuing education for engineers to keep their licenses.
The American Society of Civil Engineers offers certifications in coastal engineering, geotechnical engineering, ports engineering, water resources engineering, and other fields. Additionally, civil engineers can become certified in building security and in sustainability.
Other Experience for Civil Engineers
During high school, students can attend engineering summer camps to see what these and other engineers do. Attending these camps can help students plan their coursework for the remainder of their time in high school.
Advancement for Civil Engineers.
Civil engineers with ample experience may move into senior positions, such as project managers or functional managers of design, construction, operation, or maintenance. However, they would first need to obtain the Professional Engineering (PE) license, because only licensed engineers can assume responsibilities for public projects.
After gaining licensure, a professional engineer may seek credentialing that demonstrates his or her expertise in a civil engineering specialty. Such a credential may be helpful for advancement to senior technical or even managerial positions.
Job Outlook for Civil Engineers
Employment of civil engineers is projected to grow 2 percent over the next ten years, slower than the average for all occupations. As current U.S. infrastructure experiences growing obsolescence, civil engineers will be needed to manage projects to rebuild, repair, and upgrade bridges, roads, levees, dams, airports, buildings, and other structures.
A growing population likely means that new water systems will be required while, at the same time, aging, existing water systems must be maintained to reduce or eliminate leaks. In addition, more waste treatment plants will be needed to help clean the nation’s waterways. Civil engineers will continue to play a key part in all of this work.
The work of civil engineers will be needed for renewable-energy projects. Thus, as these new projects gain approval, civil engineers will be further involved in overseeing the construction of structures such as wind farms and solar arrays.
Although state and local governments continue to face financial challenges and may have difficulty funding all projects, some delayed projects will have to be completed to build and maintain critical infrastructure, as well as to protect the public and the environment.
Job Prospects for Civil Engineers.
Applicants who gain experience by participating in a co-op program while in college will have the best opportunities. In addition, new standards known collectively as the Body of Knowledge are growing in importance within civil engineering, and this development is likely to result in a heightened need for a graduate education. Therefore those who enter the occupation with a graduate degree will likely have better prospects.
Careers Related to Civil Engineers.
Architects
Architects plan and design houses, factories, office buildings, and other structures.
Civil Engineering Technicians
Civil engineering technicians help civil engineers to plan, design, and build highways, bridges, utilities, and other infrastructure projects. They also help to plan, design, and build commercial, industrial, residential, and land development projects.
Construction Managers
Construction managers plan, coordinate, budget, and supervise construction projects from start to finish.
Environmental Engineers
Environmental engineers use the principles of engineering, soil science, biology, and chemistry to develop solutions to environmental problems. They are involved in efforts to improve recycling, waste disposal, public health, and water and air pollution control.
Landscape Architects
Landscape architects design parks and the outdoor spaces of campuses, recreational facilities, businesses, private homes, and other open areas.
Mechanical Engineers
Mechanical engineers design, develop, build, and test mechanical and thermal sensors and devices, including tools, engines, and machines.
Surveyors
Surveyors make precise measurements to determine property boundaries. They provide data relevant to the shape and contour of the Earth’s surface for engineering, mapmaking, and construction projects.
Urban and Regional Planners
Urban and regional planners develop land use plans and programs that help create communities, accommodate population growth, and revitalize physical facilities in towns, cities, counties, and metropolitan areas.
11. ARCHITECTURE.
Architects plan and design houses, factories, office buildings, and other structures.
Duties of Architects
Architects typically do the following:
Meet with clients to determine objectives and requirements for structures
Give preliminary estimates on cost and construction time
Prepare structure specifications
Direct workers who prepare drawings and documents
Prepare scaled drawings, either with computer software or by hand
Prepare contract documents for building contractors
Manage construction contracts
Visit worksites to ensure that construction adheres to architectural plans
Seek new work by marketing and giving presentations
People need places to live, work, play, learn, shop, and eat. Architects are responsible for designing these places. They work on public or private projects and design both indoor and outdoor spaces. Architects can be commissioned to design anything from a single room to an entire complex of buildings.
Architects discuss the objectives, requirements, and budget of a project with clients. In some cases, architects provide various predesign services, such as feasibility and environmental impact studies, site selection, cost analyses, and design requirements.
Architects develop final construction plans after discussing and agreeing on the initial proposal with clients. The architects’ plans show the building’s appearance and details of its construction. These plans include drawings of the structural system; air-conditioning, heating, and ventilating systems; electrical systems; communications systems; and plumbing. Sometimes, landscape plans are included as well. In developing designs, architects must follow state and local building codes, zoning laws, fire regulations, and other ordinances, such as those requiring easy access to buildings for people who are disabled.
Architects use computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) and building information modeling (BIM) for creating designs and construction drawings. However, hand-drawing skills are still required, especially during the conceptual stages of a project and when an architect is at a construction site.
As construction continues, architects may visit building sites to ensure that contractors follow the design, adhere to the schedule, use the specified materials, and meet work-quality standards. The job is not complete until all construction is finished, required tests are conducted, and construction costs are paid.
Architects may also help clients get construction bids, select contractors, and negotiate construction contracts.
Architects often collaborate with workers in related occupations, such as civil engineers, urban and regional planners, drafters, interior designers, and landscape architects.
Work Environment for Architects
The largest employers of architects are as follows:
Architectural, engineering, and related services 71%
Self-employed workers 17%
Government 3%
Construction 3%
Architects spend much of their time in offices, where they meet with clients, develop reports and drawings, and work with other architects and engineers. They also visit construction sites to ensure clients’ objectives are met and to review the progress of projects. Some architects work from home offices.
Architect Work Schedules
Most architects work full time and many work additional hours, especially when facing deadlines. Self-employed architects may have more flexible work schedules.
How to Become an Architect[About this section] [To Top] Get the education you need: Find schools for Architects near you!
There are typically three main steps to becoming a licensed architect: completing a bachelor’s degree in architecture, gaining relevant experience through a paid internship, and passing the Architect Registration Examinatio
Education for Architects.
In all states, earning a bachelor’s degree in architecture is typically the first step to becoming an architect. Most architects earn their degree through a 5-year Bachelor of Architecture degree program. Many earn a master’s degree in architecture, which can take 1 to 5 additional years. The time required depends on the extent of the student’s previous education and training in architecture.
A typical bachelor’s degree program includes courses in architectural history and theory, building design with an emphasis on computer-aided design and drafting (CADD), structures, construction methods, professional practices, math, physical sciences, and liberal arts.
Currently, 35 states require that architects hold a degree in architecture from one of the 122 schools of architecture accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). State licensing requirements can be found at the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB).
Training for Architects
All state architectural registration boards require architecture graduates to complete a lengthy paid internship—generally lasting 3 years—before they may sit for the Architect Registration Examination. Most new graduates complete their training period by working at architectural firms through the Architectural Experience Program (AXP), a program run by NCARB that guides students through the internship process. Some states allow a portion of the training to occur in the offices of employers in related careers, such as engineers and general contractors. Architecture students who complete internships while still in school can count some of that time toward the 3-year training period.
Interns in architectural firms may help design part of a project. They may help prepare architectural documents and drawings, build models, and prepare construction drawings on CADD. Interns may also research building codes and write specifications for building materials, installation criteria, the quality of finishes, and other related details. Licensed architects take the documents that interns produce, make edits to them, finalize plans, and then sign and seal the documents.
Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations for Architects
All states and the District of Columbia require architects to be licensed. Licensing requirements typically include completing a degree program in architecture, gaining relevant experience through a paid internship, and passing the Architect Registration Examination.
Most states also require some form of continuing education to keep a license. Continuing education requirements vary by state but usually involve additional education through workshops, university classes, conferences, self-study courses, or other sources.
Advancement for Architects
After many years of work experience, some architects advance to become architectural and engineering managers. These managers typically coordinate the activities of employees and may work on larger construction projects.
Important Qualities for Architects
Analytical skills. Architects must understand the content of designs and the context in which they were created. For example, architects must understand the locations of mechanical systems and how those systems affect building operations.
Communication skills. Architects share their ideas, both in oral presentations and in writing, with clients, other architects, and workers who help prepare drawings. Many also give presentations to explain their ideas and designs.
Creativity. Architects design the overall look of houses, buildings, and other structures. Therefore, the final product should be attractive and functional.
Organizational skills. Architects often manage contracts. Therefore, they must keep records related to the details of a project, including total cost, materials used, and progress.
Technical skills. Architects need to use CADD technology to create plans as part of building information modeling (BIM).
Visualization skills. Architects must be able to envision how the parts of a structure relate to each other. They also must be able to visualize how the overall building will look once completed.
Job Outlook for Architects
Employment of architects is projected to grow 1 percent over the next ten years, slower than the average for all occupations.
Architects are expected to be needed to make plans and designs for the construction and renovation of homes, schools, healthcare facilities, and other structures, particularly in the area of sustainable design. However, improved building information modeling (BIM) software and measuring technology are expected to increase architects’ productivity, thereby limiting employment growth for these workers.
Job Prospects for Architects
With a high number of students graduating with degrees in architecture, strong competition for internships and jobs is expected.
Employment of architects is strongly tied to the activity of the construction industry. Therefore, these workers may experience periods of unemployment when there is a slowdown in requests for new projects or when the overall level of construction falls.
Employment projections data for Architects, 2019-29
Occupational Title Employment, 2019 Projected Employment, 2029 Change, 2019-29
Percent Numeric
Architects, except landscape and naval 129,900 130,900 1 1,100
Careers Related to Architects.
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Architectural and engineering managers plan, direct, and coordinate activities in architectural and engineering companies.
Civil Engineers
Civil engineers conceive, design, build, supervise, operate, construct, and maintain infrastructure projects and systems in the public and private sector, including roads, buildings, airports, tunnels, dams, bridges, and systems for water supply and sewage treatment.
Construction and Building Inspectors
Construction and building inspectors ensure that construction meets local and national building codes and ordinances, zoning regulations, and contract specifications.
Construction Managers
Construction managers plan, coordinate, budget, and supervise construction projects from start to finish.
Drafters
Drafters use software to convert the designs of engineers and architects into technical drawings. Most workers specialize in architectural, civil, electrical, or mechanical drafting and use technical drawings to help design everything from microchips to skyscrapers.
Industrial Designers
Industrial designers develop the concepts for manufactured products, such as cars, home appliances, and toys. They combine art, business, and engineering to make products that people use every day. Industrial designers consider the function, aesthetics, production costs, and usability of products when developing new product concepts.
Interior Designers
Interior designers make interior spaces functional, safe, and beautiful by determining space requirements and selecting decorative items, such as colors, lighting, and materials. They read blueprints and must be aware of building codes and inspection regulations, as well as universal accessibility standards.
Landscape Architects
Landscape architects design parks and the outdoor spaces of campuses, recreational facilities, businesses, private homes, and other open areas.
Surveying and Mapping Technicians
Surveying and mapping technicians collect data and make maps of the Earth’s surface. Surveying technicians visit sites to take measurements of the land. Mapping technicians use geographic data to create maps. They both assist surveyors and cartographers and photogrammetrists.
Surveyors
Surveyors make precise measurements to determine property boundaries. They provide data relevant to the shape and contour of the Earth’s surface for engineering, mapmaking, and construction projects.
Urban and Regional Planners
Urban and regional planners develop land use plans and programs that help create communities, accommodate population growth, and revitalize physical facilities in towns, cities, counties, and metropolitan areas.
12. MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE.
All, Medical Care, Suturing indirect patient care medical careers, medical careers for introverts, medical lab technician, MLT
Provide indirect patient care and still be a vital member of a medical team.. Story at a Glance
Many people in healthcare work behind the scenes. They like the idea of helping people, and want to work in the medical field. But they prefer work environments that are calm and quiet. A medical lab technician job may be just what you’re looking for. This article covers:
Are you interested in healthcare, but prefer working behind the scenes? We hear a lot about careers that provide direct patient care. But it may surprise you to learn there are indirect patient care medical careers available. These medical lab technician roles are important in field of medicine and today we’re going to give you a snapshot of eight of them.
Medical/Clinical Laboratory Technician
Cytogenetic Technician
Histotechnician
Pathologist Assistant
Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Anesthesia Technician
Radiation Protection Technician
Medical Equipment Repair Technician.
6 characteristics signaling a healthcare technician job may be right for you.
Even if you identify yourself as an introvert, you may still wonder if a laboratory-type job is right for you. If any characteristic of the following six sounds like you, it could be.
You enjoy science – The careers we’re reviewing in this article all have a basis in chemistry, biology, and physiology. If you enjoy science, chances are high you’ll be happy in at least one of these careers. Don’t worry if you didn’t like science in school. Interests change over time. All you need are a strong sense of curiosity and enjoyment in learning.
You attend to detail – You’ve probably worked with people who don’t pay attention to details. As a result, mistakes get made, and tasks have to be done again. But if you’re someone who is meticulous and precise in gathering particulars, then medical labs need you. Many of these indirect care careers have to analyze and compile data to help doctors diagnose and treat their patients.
You strive for consistency – If you agree that consistency in work can be reached through repetition and routine, then working in a lab may be perfect for you. If you’re someone who can repeat tasks and remain focused and careful, lab analysis and research positions are good options for you to investigate.
You prefer working with patients indirectly – As you may have guessed by now, you don’t have to be interacting with patients all day to make a difference in their lives. A career in a laboratory medicine allows you to play an integral role in the healthcare system without being center stage. Even if you sometimes have to draw blood, or provide instructions to people about what they need, the majority of your time will be spent in a non-chaotic, secluded work environment.
You desire job security – Allied health technician jobs are relatively secure and stable. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), on average, jobs for medical technicians are projected to increase at a faster-than-average rate of 14% through 2026. A contributing factor for the growth is an aging population with ongoing medical issues.
You want to begin your career quickly – Many healthcare careers require an extensive education. Most medical lab technician training programs can be completed in two years or less. That means you’ll be in the field a lot sooner.
If any of these attributes describes you, then you may be someone who is well suited to laboratory and research work in healthcare.
8 medical lab technician careers
Of the following 8 careers, no one is more important than the other. Although some of the duties of each job may be similar, what is studied and researched is not. When sifting through the options, consider what appeals to you most.
Most of the careers fall in the category of Medical/Clinical Lab Technician (MLT), although there is also a job title specifically related to that. We’ll cover the general MLT first, then proceed to specific specialties within the medical lab technician field.
Medical/Clinical Lab Technician
medical lab technicianJob Responsibilities: Lab technicians, or MLTs, work with integrated systems and perform mechanical or diagnostic tests in medical laboratories. Some MLTs work independently while others prefer to work in companies where they’re part of more extensive teams of professionals.
Lab technicians perform a variety of tasks. Collecting samples, studying and performing tests on anything from bodily fluids to biopsies are only some of the functions you’ll perform. You’ll use a variety of equipment and software programs to conduct thorough and accurate tests. You’ll also be expected to record information you discover for review by doctors, physicians and scientists. Maintaining and sterilizing your lab equipment are also elements of the job.
From time to time you may be asked to acquire samples from patients, but won’t establish ongoing relationships them.
Lab technicians work in a variety of medical settings. Dental offices, clinics, and ophthalmic labs are only a few.
Education Required: For the most part, to become a technician, you’ll need an associate degree. If you aspire to become a technologist, you’ll have to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Both degree levels include coursework in biological sciences, lab management, chemistry, and statistics. Although there are short-term certificate programs available, you may discover an individual with more education is given preference by employers. Associate degree programs last 18-24 months. Bachelor degree programs require a four-year commitment.
Regardless of the educational path you select, you’ll learn how to use medical laboratory equipment and how to conduct data analysis. You’ll also explore content such as immune hematology and become proficient in studying biological samples.
Some ophthalmic and dental labs may be willing to provide on-the-job training. In those situations, you can get started with only a high school diploma. However, to be hired in a medical or clinical lab, you typically need an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. The higher your level of education, the better your chances are of being hired.
Credentialing: Each state differs on the requirements for laboratory workers. You may be required to obtain a license, become certified, or to pursue some type of registration. Contact your local State Board of Health or Board of Occupational Licensing to find out your state’s criteria. You can also refer to the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science or the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences.
Key Skills: To be a successful MLT, you must be able to:
Communicate accurately and efficiently.
Demonstrate solid analytical skills.
Focus on details.
Manage time effectively.
Operate independently.
Work with a team.
Cytogenetic Technician
cytogenetic technician, medical lab technician
Job responsibilities: A cytogenetic technician is a type of MLT who analyzes genetic elements inside cells. As a cytogenetic technician, you’ll analyze chromosomes and other genetic materials. You’ll also maintained detailed notes for each sample. This includes ensuring any sample is associated with the correct patient. Overall you’ll study cells at a microscopic level for signs of irregularities or disease. The work is completed in a medical facility or research institution, where there is a lab manager, and you’re a member of a cytogenetic team.
Education required: Generally, a bachelor’s degree in cytotechnology, biological science, or chemistry field is required. You’ll encounter topics such as cellular biology, biochemistry, and genetics. Most programs contain a clinical aspect where you’ll gain hands-on experience while working under the supervision of a qualified instructor. It is recommended you attend an accredited program. For more information on cytotechnology training programs, you can visit the American Society for Cytotechnology (ASCT).
Credentialing: Following graduation from an accredited program in cytotechnology and gaining experience in the field, candidates for credentialing may qualify to take one of the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Registry exams. Some states may require regional testing. Check your state for their criteria.
Key Skills: Successful cytogenetic technicians possess the following skills:
Ability to set up and operate sophisticated laboratory equipment.
Analytical or scientific competencies.
Proficiency in using a database and query software.
Project management.
Histotechnician
histotechnician, medical lab technicianJob Responsibilities: Professionals who study the minute structures of biological material and determine how they are structurally and functionally related are called histotechnicians. The field encompasses how biochemistry, molecular biology, and physiology interact with disease processes. Like other MLT specialties, you’ll be studying and analyzing samples and reporting data to researchers, doctors, and scientists.
Education Required: Initial preparation for a histotechnician begins in high school with a strong curriculum in biology, chemistry, math and computer science. The next step is attending an histotechnician associate degree program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). You may be able to attend a community college, or even a hospital training program. If possible, while you’re going to school, try to work part-time in a lab setting to gain experience. If you want to become a histotechnologist, you will need a bachelor degree.
Credentialing: Although certification is voluntary, many states require you to have a license. The American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification (BOC) facilitates the exam. Since licensing requirements differ significantly from state to state, you’ll have to check your state for their criteria.
Key skills: Successful histotechnicians must be able to:
Analyze difficult problems.
Communicate effectively.
Gather samples.
Make sound decisions.
Manage time efficiently.
Manipulate small tools.
Meet deadlines.
Understand and perform tissue staining protocols.
Pathologist Assistant
pathology assistant, medical lab technicianJob responsibilities: First and foremost, a PA helps a pathologist prepare and diagnose tissue, blood and other specimens in a sterile laboratory. Depending upon the work environment, as a PA you might also examine corpses to determine a cause of death. Tasks could include collecting and dissecting postmortem specimens, conducting various tests on samples, taking diagnostic images, and recording your findings. From time-to-time some PAs may be asked to train colleagues or assist with autopsies, which does require some social interaction. However, most responsibilities are lab-based and can be performed independently.
Education required: Federal law requires PAs to have a minimum of an associate degree (American Association of Pathologists’ Assistants). You may choose to complete a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in the field. Most PA programs take about two years to complete. The curriculum consists of science courses like microbiology, genetics, and immunology. Students will also encounter pathology courses. Nearly all programs provide clinical experiences.
Credentialing: PAs may seek a three-year certification through the American Society for Clinical Pathology. Some states require additional criteria and even state licensing before you can begin work. Check your state for details.
Key skills: Successful pathology assistants will demonstrate:
Active listening skills.
Analytical/scientific thinking capabilities.
Attention to detail.
Competency in information ordering (following rules or arranging data/actions in a specific order).
Proficiency in using information systems software.
Nuclear Medicine Technologist
medical lab technician, nuclear medicine technologist
Job responsibilities: A nuclear medicine technologist performs imaging tests that help doctors identify abnormalities inside the body. The process involves giving patients small doses of radioactive materials and then using specialized equipment to record images of organs or other body parts where the substances localize. As a nuclear medicine technologist, you’ll have some interaction with patients when you explain procedures to them. You’ll also inspect equipment and possibly administer the radiopharmeceutial material, which is given orally, by injection, or through inhalation.
There are inherent risks in this job. You may be exposed to infectious diseases as well as to radiation. Consequently, you must take measures to protect yourself and be precise in following those protocols.
Education required: An associate or bachelor’s degree in nuclear medicine technology is necessary to enter this field. If you already have a degree in a related science, you may be able to combine that with a 12-month certificate program and enter the profession a little faster. In addition to courses in anatomy and physiology, you’ll be in classes about nuclear physics and radiochemistry.
Credentialing: Many states require a license to practice. See the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging to find out if your state is one of them. You can also check with your state health department for current rules and regulations.
Two professional organizations, the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), offer voluntary certification. Some states that license nuclear medicine technologists will accept this certification. Others will require you to take an exam. Even states where certification isn’t needed, it is advantageous to have certification because it can improve your chances of being hired.
Key skills: Nuclear medicine technologists must possess the following skills:
Ability to work as a member of a team.
Attention to detail in data recording and observations.
Decision-making capabilities.
Strong communication skills.
Technical know-how to operate complicated equipment.
Anesthesia Technician
anesthesia technician, medical lab technicianJob responsibilities: If you enjoy working with machinery, but also being a member of a care team with indirect responsibility for patients, then a career as an anesthesia technician may be right for you.
Professionals in this technical role contribute to safe anesthesia care by providing support to the anesthetist. This may include ensuring the anesthesia equipment is working properly, to assessing dosages of medications given to patients. As an anesthesia technician, you are part of a surgical team and will have some interaction with its members as well as with patients.
Education: A high school diploma is the minimum education required, although anesthesia technician degree programs are available. If you’re a high school student, focus on courses in math, science, and technology. Anesthesia technician degree programs will include curriculum topics like pharmacology and anesthesia equipment functionality. At least one year of experience in the field as an intern is recommended.
Credentialing: Although certification is voluntary, there is a national certification exam available that could increase your potential employment opportunities. The national exam is conducted by the American Society of Anesthesia Technologists and Technicians (ASATT) and is the only one officially recognized. During your job search, ensure you have documentation of a basic life support certification since this is a requirement in any hiring situation.
Key Skills: To be successful as an anesthesia technician, you must:
Be comfortable working with computers, biomedical equipment, and anesthetic devices.
Communicate well.
Focus on details.
Problem solve.
Radiation Protection Technician
radiation protection technician, medical lab technicianJob Responsibilities: Although not specifically a medical lab job, radiation protection technicians provide a valuable service to overall public health. RPTs are also referred to as nuclear monitoring technicians or hazardous materials removal workers. As the titles imply, RPTs track radiation levels. They also expose leaks or potential hazards and then remove them. As an RPT you may even find yourself organizing evacuations of contaminated areas. The type and seriousness of the emergency determine the protocol followed. Some RPTS specialize in decontamination, emergency response or storage, and disposal. Or you’ll analyze environmental samples to determine levels of contamination.
There are risks involved in being an RPT. You may be exposed to contaminated material or radiation. Training programs provide extensive information on how to protect yourself, thereby minimizing your risk factors.
Education Requirements: Because there are specializations within the field of radiation protection, the type of training varies. Many positions require a certificate or associate’s degree in radiation safety or technology. Some employers may provide on-the-job training.
Formal programs are heavily based in math and science. You’ll also learn about radiation safety, contamination control, and radiological chemistry. The structure and nature of nuclear or power plant systems are generally included as part of the curriculum. There’s little doubt you’ll have lab and internship experiences along with the didactic portion of your studies.
Credentialing: The Occupational Health and Safety Organization (OSHA) is the federal entity that maintains and audits regulations concerning the safe removal of radiation and nuclear waste. As a result, professionals who work with and remove those products must undergo a mandatory 40-hour training course. You may also be required to complete three months of additional training through the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). This additional training provides information about the protective gear you’ll wear, the equipment you’ll use, and the materials you may encounter.
Key Skills: A successful radiation protection technician will demonstrate:
Attention to detail.
Calm demeanor in crisis situations.
Capability to work independently with accuracy and precision.
Communication skills.
Cooperative attitude in working with a team.
Critical and logical thinking.
High energy.
Mechanical aptitude.
Medical and anatomical competencies.
Time management efficiencies.
Medical Equipment Repair Technician
Job responsibilities: Although this technician job may feel non-medical, it is critically important to all medical facilities. When healthcare equipment breaks down, it must be repaired – and repaired quickly. If it doesn’t work correctly, a potentially severe illness or disease could be missed or misdiagnosed. So medical equipment repair technicians are vital members of all medical teams even though the care
provided to patients is indirect.
The duties of a medical equipment repair technician vary by type of equipment, but most repair technicians
install, clean, maintain and fix medical equipment. Within those primary tasks, you’ll keep detailed service records and be presented with the latest updates in equipment software. You may even learn how to use and install the newest equipment available on the market. Although the scope of this profession is outside of a medical laboratory, the work is independent and a few steps removed from excessive chaotic environments.
medical equipment repair technician, medical lab technician
Education required: Due to the sophistication of medical equipment, it’s best to obtain an associate’s degree in biomedical equipment technology. In this kind of a training program, you’ll learn hardware and software repair, electronics and physics. Because the equipment is designed to inspect the human body, you’ll also learn medical terminology and anatomy and physiology. Throughout a training program you’ll be exposed to a generous variety of medical equipment where you’ll learn to identify and correct mechanical problems. A bachelor’s program offers more in-depth content where you’ll encounter more complex and electronic-based medical equipment.
Credentialing: While registration, licensure, or certification isn’t mandatory, employability may be improved if you obtain certification through the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI). Three types of certification are available. A certified laboratory equipment specialist (CLES), a certified biomedical equipment technician (CBET), and a certified radiology equipment specialist (CRES).
Key Skills: A capable medical equipment repair technician must possess or acquire:
Comfort in working independently with minimal supervision.
Decision making capabilities.
Dexterity.
Mechanical, safety testing, and troubleshooting skills.
Precision in the work environment.
Problem solving competencies.
Stamina.
Strong communication style.
Time management efficiencies.
13. COMPUTER ENGINEERING
Computer Engineering has always been one of the top in-demand career choices for young aspirants. This is primarily because the field branches out into numerous specializations, thereby creating a host of career paths for Computer Engineers. However, the sheer number of career choices available in Computer Engineering can often become overwhelming for many. In fact, students who are still figuring out what they want in their professional aspect of life are always faced with one confusing question:
“What to do after Computer Engineering?”
Our answer – there is no one answer to this question! And that’s the beauty of Computer Engineering. There is no one single career options but several after computer engineering. Once you earn your Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, you will have a slew of options before you. You can either choose to pursue higher studies or enter the corporate world. In this post, we’ll walk you through the entire process of building your career, and hopefully, this will answer the question “what to do after Computer Engineering.“
Learners receive an average Salary hike of 58% with the highest being up to 400%.
First, we’ll start with the higher educational opportunities in Computer Engineering.
M.Tech/M.S. in Computer Engineering – This is one of the best options for aspirants who want to pursue higher studies in the field. Usually, M.Tech is a 2-year long course, M.S. is a 3-year long course. After completing M.Tech/M.Sc in Computer Engineering, you can either apply for jobs or enter the research field (Ph.D.).
Ph.D. – After M.Tech, you can directly enrol in a Ph.D. program. This is an excellent choice for students who are interested in research in the field. Usually, Ph.D. programs are a 5-year integrated course involving two years of course and a minimum of three years of research work.
Dual degree (M.Tech + Ph.D.) – This is actually quite similar to Ph.D. The only difference is that a dual degree gives you both M.Tech and Ph.D. degrees.
Postgraduate Program in Machine Learning/Data Science/Business Analytics – Data Science and its related technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Deep Learning are some of the hottest trending fields in the industry right now. Also, Business Analytics is an emerging domain that is growing parallelly to Big Data and Data Science. A postgraduate degree, either in Data Sc
ience/Business Analytics, is best suited for those who wish to enter the Data Science and Big Data domains.
MBA – An MBA course is best suited for aspirants who are inclined towards business management. You can pursue an MBA degree either from India or from foreign universities.
Pursuing higher education after completing Computer Engineering will further solidify your career prospects. Most companies and organizations allot a higher salary scale for candidates who have advanced degrees in their field. Plus, there always remains an option for entering academia or research field.
Now that you are aware of the higher education opportunities, we’ll talk about the different career options after Computer Engineering.
Table of Contents
Top Career Options after Computer Engineering
1. Big Data Engineer
2. Machine Learning Engineer
3. Data Scientist
4. Data Analyst
5. Blockchain Developer/Engineer
6. Software Developer
7. Computer Network Architect
8. Computer Systems Analyst
9. Database Administrator
10. Information Security Analyst
11. Full Stack Developer
12. Information Systems Manager
Wrapping Up
Top Career Options after Computer Engineering
A degree in Computer Engineering opens up endless career possibilities before you. Some of the top career options after Computer Engineering include:
1. Big Data Engineer
Big Data Engineers are responsible for building, testing, and maintaining scalable Big Data ecosystems for the businesses so that the Data Scientists can run their algorithms on stable and optimized data systems. Big Data Engineers usually work closely with Data Architects, Data Analysts, and Data Scientists, all focused on one goal – to help organizations obtain meaningful insights from large and complex datasets that can be transformed into actionable business decisions. Big data is one of the best career options after computer engineering.
As the name suggests, Big Data Engineers work primarily with Big Data ecosystems, tools, and technologies. They are required to upgrade, troubleshoot, and optimize Big Data systems and software to improve the efficiency of the databases. Usually, Big Data Engineers need a few years of industry experience in working with Big Data frameworks like Hadoop, SQL-based databases, and also with popular data APIs and ETL tools. Click more if you want to learn more about how to become a big data engineer.
2. Machine Learning Engineer
Machine Learning Engineers are sophisticated ML experts who specialize in designing and building intelligent machines and systems that can learn from experience and perform human-like tasks with minimal or no human supervision. They create advanced ML algorithms that can teach computers how to perform specific tasks without being explicitly programmed for the same. Also, Machine Learning Engineers develop state-of-the-art ML and Deep Learning systems and run various ML tests and experiments to innovate unique AI-powered machines.
Machine Learning Engineers are one of the most sought after professionals today. However, the job profile demands a high-level of expertise in Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science. You can see the demand for machine learning engineers by verifying the type of salary machine learning engineers receive. Machine Learning Engineers must be well-versed with the fundamentals of Computer Science, including data structures, algorithms, and computer architecture. Needless to say, they must be expert programmers who are proficient in multiple languages like Python, R, Java, C, Ruby, Perl, Scala, etc.
If you’re interested to learn more about machine learning, check out IIIT-B & upGrad’s PG Diploma in Machine Learning & AI which is designed for working professionals and offers 450+ hours of rigorous training, 30+ case studies & assignments, IIIT-B Alumni status, 5+ practical hands-on capstone projects & job assistance with top firms.
You can also check IIT Delhi’s Machine Learning Program in association with upGrad. IIT Delhi is one of the most prestigious institutions in India. With more the 500+ In-house faculty members which are the best in the subject matters.
3. Data Scientist
Data Scientists are the masters of the Data Science domain. They are mainly concerned with creating value from complex data. Data Scientists gather data not only from the company repository but also from multiple external sources (social media, websites, blogs, etc.). They clean, organize and process this data to further analyze it for extracting the hidden patterns within it. This helps them understand how the data at hand can solve the present business challenges an organization.
Data Scientists work in close collaboration with Data Analysts, and together, they dig deep into the data to uncover meaningful insights that can be used to find solutions for real-world business issues. Often, Data Scientists play the leading role (like that of a Project Manager) in projects that deal with large volumes of complex business data. Data Scientists usually have extensive knowledge of Data Science, Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, and Statistics.
If you are curious to learn about data science, check out IIIT-B & upGrad’s PG Diploma in Data Science which is created for working professionals and offers 10+ case studies & projects, practical hands-on workshops, mentorship with industry experts, 1-on-1 with industry mentors, 400+ hours of learning and job assistance with top firms.
4. Data Analyst
Data Analysts are the link between the two worlds – Data Science and business. While they spend a considerable amount of time in collecting relevant data from disparate sources, Data Analysts must also be able to present their findings in ways that can be understood by all the stakeholders involved in a project.
Data Analysts use their technical expertise to perform data munging, processing, and visualization tasks. Another crucial aspect of their daily job is to optimize the data and ensure its quality and accuracy. They not only create algorithms but also modify them to extract information from large databases without corrupting the data stored within.
Data Analysts must both understand the data before them and also provide clear insights to the non-technical stakeholders through lucid visual, written, and verbal communication. Attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and data visualization skills are the three most coveted qualities of a Data Analyst. Read more if you are wondering about the differences between data analyst, data scientist and engineer.
5. Blockchain Developer/Engineer
As the name suggests, Blockchain Developer/Engineers are software experts who specialize in Blockchain technology. Blockchain Developer/Engineers handle and oversee the complete life cycles of Blockchain applications, right from research and analysis to their design and execution.
They use a combination of various Blockchain programming languages (Simplicity, Solidity, Rholang, JavaScript, C++, etc.) to create advanced interfaces, features, and architecture for Blockchain systems. Apart from setting up the necessary infrastructure for Blockchain applications and solutions, Blockchain Developer/Engineers also set up essential security measures to protect the systems from cyber attacks and also to establish standard work practices.
Blockchain Developer/Engineers must possess an in-depth understanding of the Blockchain architecture, Data Structures, cryptography, smart contract development, and web development.
6. Software Developer
The role of a Software Developer is perfect for those who love coding and programming. Software Developers are always in high demand in the IT/ITES sector. They specialize in multiple programming languages like C, C++, C#, Java, Python, Ruby, Perl, Scala, and more. Software Developers create innovative software programs and applications with unique use cases and functionalities that cater to specific customer needs. Software development is one of the preferred career options after computer engineering.
Software Developers must possess both technical creativity and analytical thinking skills needed to solve various software related issues. They must create a reliable support system for software products to facilitate smooth workflows. Candidates aspiring for this specialization must be proficient in more than one programming language and also possess effective communication and problem-solving skills.
7. Computer Network Architect
Computer Network Architects are professionals who design, develop, implement, and maintain networking and data communication systems. This includes local area networks, wide area networks, extranets, and intranets. Also, they handle the job of upgrading both software (for example, network drivers) and hardware (like adapters and routers). Generally, Computer Network Architects work with the company’s CTO (Chief Technology Officer) to predict where new networks are needed the most in the organization.
Computer Network Architects must have a sound understanding of an organization’s business plan to be able to design and implement the appropriate network in the right places. They also need to plan the implementation of security patches and other countermeasures to protect the systems against vulnerabilities. Furthermore, Computer Network Architects also need to research new networking technologies to analyze current data traffic better and estimate how growth in traffic might affect the network.
8. Computer Systems Analyst
Computer Systems Analysts is one of the popular career options after computer engineering which focus on studying an organization’s existing computer systems, design information systems, and business workflows to help devise more innovative, efficient, and productive solutions. Since Computer Systems Analysts possess in-depth knowledge of both business and I.T. domains, they help bridge the gap between the business world and information technology (I.T.).
They employ many techniques to design effective computer systems and also conduct extensive tests for analyzing the hidden trends in the data to increase the efficiency and performance of computer systems.
While companies often hire Computer Systems Analysts as general-purpose analysts who develop new systems or fine-tune existing ones, they may also recruit some specialized analysts such as Systems Architects, Software Quality Assurance (Q.A.) Analysts and Programmer Analysts.
9. Database Administrator
The job role of Database Administrators is a pivotal one in the industry since these professionals are primarily focused on the everyday functioning of the company database. They maintain the database, monitor and track the database software purchases, manage database access, implement security measures, and supervise the modifications incorporated in existing software products.
Database Administrators are also responsible for quality control and the performance of company databases to protect and uphold the integrity and privacy of confidential data.
Database Administrators must possess excellent organizational and analytical skills. They need to have a sound understanding of the business requirements of I.T. and a willingness to stay updated with the latest technological developments. Database Administrators are recruited by I.T. firms, management consultancy firms, financial organizations, universities, and even by government agencies that deal with large volumes of data.
10. Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts are professionals who exclusively focus on the protection of an organization’s sensitive and mission-critical data. They must always stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and protect the network and systems from being violated by hackers and attackers. To do so, they must continually read up on new trends in cybersecurity and design innovative solutions to protect the security of data and systems of a company.
Information Security Analysts focus on three core areas – risk assessment, vulnerability assessment, and defence planning. Hence, this job role demands competent investigative and problem-solving skills required for safeguarding all sensitive information of a company.
11. Full Stack Developer
Full Stack Developers are primarily involved with programming and coding. They design and create the blueprint for websites by adhering to standard HTML/CSS practices and according to client specifications and demands. They must also maintain appropriate software documentation. Since this role focuses on user experience as well as functionality, Full Stack Developers must be proficient in both graphic design and computer programming.
Thanks to the cut-throat competition between companies in the digital and e-commerce domains, they continue to be in high demand. Full Stack developers must have the technical know-how of client-side components, server-side languages, web application frameworks, and database management systems. Learn more about the full stack developer salary in India.
12. Information Systems Manager
Information Systems Managers are business executives who manage and implement computer and information technology (I.T.) systems within an organization. They act as a liaison between a company’s top management and I.T. specialists. They are responsible for the secure and effective operation of all computer systems, software applications, and other hardware/software components that are used by a company.
Information Systems Managers supervise and manage the work of other I.T. professionals, including Computer Engineers, Systems Analysts, Data Security Specialists, Tech Support Specialists, and so on.
The career prospects of Information Systems Managers are highly promising since most companies hire them to improve workplace productivity and business operations. Apart from strong organizational and managerial skills, Information Systems Managers must also possess soft skills like leadership, communication, project management, time management, and customer service skills.
Wrapping Up
So, these are the top 12 career options after Computer Engineering that you can consider! All of these career paths have a high industry demand, and hence, come with decent to very high yearly compensation.
If you would like to know more about which career option you should take after computer engineering based on your interests, talk to our career counsellors to know more about the current industry trends, the future scope of various fields, and more.
Read Also : 2023: List Of Contenders As PDP Cedes Presidency To North, Chairmanship To South
14. ECONOMICS.
Economists study how society uses, regulates, and distributes its natural and human-made resources such as land, labor, raw materials, and machinery to produce goods and services (Horizons, 2000). In simpler terms, they study how effectively society meets its human and material needs. Economists also study how economic systems address three basic questions: What shall we produce?; How shall we produce it?; For whom shall we produce it? They then compile, process, and interpret the answers to these questions (Economists, 2005). Economists may analyze the relationship between supply and demand and develop theories and models to help predict these future relationships. They help provide a logical, ordered way of looking at various problems. They attempt to explain social concerns such as unemployment, inflation, economic growth, business cycles, tax policy, or farm prices. Most economists apply their skills to solve problems in specific areas, such as transportation, labor, heath, finance, marketing, corporate planning, energy, or agriculture. Business firms, banks, insurance companies, labor unions, governmental agencies, and others seek advice from economists to use in their decision making.
TYPES OF ECONOMISTS
Theoretical economists, employing mathematical models, develop theories to examine major economic phenomena, such as the causes of business cycles or inflation or the effects of unemployment, energy prices, or tax laws. Most economists, however, concern themselves with the practical application of economic policy to such areas as finance, labor, agriculture, health, and transportation (Harkavy, 1999). Although there is a wide range of careers open to economists, there are three main career paths: business, government, and academia. Each type of economist applies the economic approach to decision-making in a different setting.
Business economists work in such areas as manufacturing, mining, transportation, communications, banking, insurance, retailing, private industry, securities and investment firms, management consulting firms, and economic and market research firms, as well as trade associations and consulting organizations (Careers, 2001). Many private firms, both large and small, recruit undergraduate economics majors for jobs. These jobs are general-purpose ones for which employers seek bright, highly-motivated students who can learn a specific business through on-the job training. To become a professional business economist requires graduate training. Business economists perform such tasks as forecasting the business environment, interpreting the impact of public/governmental policy on the firm, and collecting and processing data. They also supply information to management that affects decisions on the marketing and pricing of company products, as well as providing long- and short-term economic forecasts (“Economics,” 1997). For example, a business firm’s managers might ask its marketing analysts to provide specific information on which to base marketing and pricing policies. Using econometric modeling techniques, the analysts develop projections of market reactions to various price levels throughout the industry. On the basis of these projections, the mangers can make informed pricing decisions. Informed, rational decision making on economic matters is what economics is all about.
Government economists work for federal, state, and local governments in a wide variety of positions involving analysis and policy making. The federal government is a major source of employment for economists with an undergraduate degree; information about job openings in various agencies is available from the Federal Employment Information Center. A bachelor’s degree in economics is a good qualification for an entry-level position; a person can advance to higher positions by obtaining a graduate degree or by promotion from within. There are jobs for labor, international, development, and population economists, as well as micro- and macroeconomists (Careers, 2001). Economists who work for government or private research agencies assess economic trends in order to formulate policy in such areas as agriculture, forestry, business, finance, labor, transportation, urban economics, or international trade and development (Horizons, 2000). Working for Congress is a relatively new area for economists. Legislation and the issues facing Congress are becoming more complex and economic in nature, and as a result, members of Congress are turning to economists for advice on these issues.
Academics is another major area in which economists are found. Economics professors teach basic macro- and microeconomics courses (the “big picture” versus individual companies/persons) as well as courses on advanced topics, such as economic history and labor economics. They also do research, write papers and books, and give lectures, contributing their knowledge to the advancement of the discipline (Economists, 2005). In order to teach at a four-year college, it is essential to have a Ph.D. in economics. Faculty members usually divide their time among teaching, research, and administrative responsibilities. Many academic economists also have the opportunity to consult either for business or government.
Career opportunities for which an economics background is well suited
Economist
Business Manager
Property Manager
Labor Relations Specialist
Market Research Analyst
Securities Broker
Urban/Regional Planner
Public Administrator
Government Economist
Industrial Traffic Manager
Technical Writer
International Trade Specialist
Farm and Land Appraiser
Food Store Manager
Marketing Advisor
Professional Farm Manager
Sales Representative
Statistician
Journalist (especially business reporting)
Actuary
Researcher
Agricultural Economist
Tax Economist
Tax Examiner/Collector/Revenue Agent
Political Scientist
Stockbroker
Commodities Trader/Broker
Financial Analyst
Financial Investment Analyst
Population Studies Analyst
Bank Administrator
Business Administrator
Investor Relations Manager
Chamber of Commerce Analyst
Transportation Planner
Commodity Analyst
Data Analyst
Cost Analyst
Credit Analyst
Rate Analyst
Bank Research Analyst
Compensation/Benefits Coordinator
Financial Researcher
Investment Banking Analyst
Compensation Analyst
Cost Estimator
Demographer
Regional Planner
Underwriter
Management Consultant
RELATED USES FOR AN ECONOMICS DEGREE
Economics is widely recognized as a solid background for many jobs and professions in business, government, and the law. Economics majors have a wide range of choices and a great deal of flexibility when deciding on a profession (see Table 1).
An undergraduate major in economics can be an ideal preparation for work on a Master of Business Administration degree, and many graduate business schools encourage students to take at least some economics courses. Studying economics is also excellent preparation for becoming a lawyer; many believe that economics is one of the best backgrounds for success in law school because of its emphasis on a logical approach to problems, logical reasoning, and analytical skills. Publishing companies and trade associations also employ economists. Newspapers provide economics majors with opportunities to write about economic and business events. The demand for economics teachers in secondary schools is growing as economics becomes an increasingly important and popular course (Careers, 2001).
WORK CONDITIONS
Economists generally work in offices or classrooms. The average work week for government economists is forty hours, but the schedules of academic and business economists are less predictable. Regular travel may be necessary to collect data or attend conferences or meetings. International economists may spend as much as 30 percent of their time traveling and 40 percent of their time on the telephone or the Internet researching current trends in foreign economic systems (for this subgroup, language skills are important).
Economists in nonteaching positions often work alone writing reports, preparing statistical charts, and using computers, but they may also be part of a research team. Faculty economists have flexible work schedules, dividing their time among teaching, research, consulting, and administrative duties. High levels of satisfaction are found throughout this field, which encourages discussion, detailed examination, and lively disagreement.
DESIRABLE PERSONAL QUALITIES
The field of economics rewards creative, curious, analytical, and logical thinkers. Helpful qualities for an economist include the following:
The ability to work accurately with details
The ability to work well independently as well as with others
The ability to be objective and systematic in one’s work
Patience and persistence (since economists and marketing research analysts must spend long hours on independent study and problem solving)
Effective communication skills
Intellectual curiosity
The ability to collect, organize, interpret, and analyze data
Leadership ability
The ability to present findings clearly, both orally and in writing
The ability to make decisions based on experience and using data
Enjoyment of the research process
Especially for advancement purposes, it is helpful to continue pursuing education and to take graduate-level courses. It is also important to be able to work successfully under the pressure of deadlines and tight schedules and to be able to bear the responsibility of knowing that the information provided will affect the future policies of current employers.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
People who are interested in this field should be able to work accurately and precisely, because economics entails careful analysis of data. Good communications skills are also necessary. One should also take as many mathematics and computer science courses as possible in high school (Economics, 2005).
A college major in economics is the basic preparation for a career in economics. Students should also study political science, psychology, sociology, finance, business law, international relations, statistics, regression analysis, and econometrics. Those who are comfortable with the written and spoken word have a significantly higher rate of advancement and overall job satisfaction than those who are not.
Although most professional economists hold a master’s degree or a doctorate, a bachelor’s degree often suffices for an entry-level position in business or government, perhaps in an economics-related area such as sales or marketing, beginning research, or administrative and management training (Economics, 2005). The primary responsibilities in entry-level positions are the collection, adaptation, and preparation of data. In the federal government, applicants for entry-level economist positions must have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of twenty-one semester hours of economics and three hours of statistics, accounting, or calculus. However, additional courses and/or superior academic performance are likely to be required. The importance of quantitative analysis makes it highly desirable for those planning a career in economics to take courses in mathematics, statistics, sampling theory and survey design, and computer science (Harkavy, 1999).
Postgraduate degrees in economics, with concentration in areas such as economic theory, econometrics, comparative economic systems, economic planning, labor economics, and international economics, are generally required for advancement in government or private industry (Harkavy, 1999). Business economists with a graduate degree and experience may advance to management or executive positions in banks, industry, or other organizations, where they determine business and administrative policy. A master’s degree is usually the minimum requirement for a job as an instructor in junior and community colleges. For a faculty position in most colleges and universities, however, a Ph.D. is normally required. A Ph.D. plus extensive publications in academic journals are required for a professorship, tenure, and promotion. Economists in education may advance to be department heads or to administrative or research positions (Economists and Marketing, 2000).
Overall, good mathematical and analytical skills are essential; persistence, objectivity, and creativity in problem solving are important; and computer skills and excellent communication skills are invaluable. No special licensing or certification is required for economists (Harkavy, 1999).
LOCATION OF JOBS
Generally economists who are not in academia work in large cities, where there is
EARNINGS AND PROSPECTIVE JOB OUTLOOK
Economists are the highest-paid social scientists. The highest-paid economists in business are in securities and investment, insurance, and retail and wholesale trade. The lowest-paid economists work in education, nonprofit research institutions, and real estate (Harkavy, 1999).
Job opportunities for economists should be best in manufacturing, financial services, advertising, and consulting firms. The complexity of modern national and international markets will codemand for those skilled in quantitative analysis. In addition, lawyers, accountants, engineers, and urban and regional planners, among others, will continue to need economic analysis. The majority of openings will come about as the result of replacement needs for those retiring or leaving the profession for some other reason (Harkavy, 1999).
Demand for qualified marketing research analysts should be strong because of the increasingly competitive economy. Marketing research provides organizations with valuable feedback from purchasers that enables companies to evaluate consumer satisfaction and plan more effectively for the future. As companies seek to expand their market and consumers become better informed, the need for marketing professionals will increase (Economists and Marketing, 2000).
Economists with a bachelor’s degree will face strong competition in securing jobs in business or industry; some may find positions as management or sales trainees or as research or administrative assistants. Those with master’s degrees and a strong background in marketing and finance will have the best prospects in business, banking, advertising, and management consulting (Harkavy, 1999). Those holding doctoral degrees in economics and marketing are likely to face strong competition for teaching positions in colleges and universities. However, opportunities should be good in other areas, such as industry and consulting firms.
15. SURVEYING.
Surveyors make precise measurements to determine property boundaries. They provide data relevant to the shape and contour of the Earth’s surface for engineering, mapmaking, and construction projects.
Duties of Surveyors
Surveyors typically do the following:
Measure distances and angles between points on, above, and below the Earth’s surface
Travel to locations and use known reference points to determine the exact location of important features
Research land records, survey records, and land titles
Look for evidence of previous boundaries to determine where boundary lines are located
Record the results of surveying and verify the accuracy of data
Prepare plots, maps, and reports
Present findings to clients and government agencies
Establish official land and water boundaries for deeds, leases, and other legal documents and testify in court regarding survey work
Surveyors mark and document the location of legal property lines. For example, when a house or commercial building is bought or sold, surveyors may mark property boundaries to prevent or resolve disputes. They use a variety of measuring equipment depending upon the type of survey.
When taking measurements in the field, surveyors make use of the Global Positioning System (GPS), a system of satellites that locates reference points with a high degree of precision. Surveyors use handheld GPS units and automated systems known as robotic total stations to collect relevant information about the terrain they are surveying. Surveyors then interpret and verify the results on a computer.
Surveyors also use Geographic Information Systems (GIS)—technology that allows surveyors to present spatial information visually as maps, reports, and charts. For example, a surveyor can overlay aerial or satellite images with GIS data, such as tree density in a given region, and create digital maps. They then use the results to advise governments and businesses on where to plan homes, roads, and landfills.
Although advances in surveying technology now allow many jobs to be performed by just one surveyor, other jobs may be performed by a crew, consisting of a licensed surveyor and trained surveying technicians. The person in charge of the crew, known as the party chief, may be either a surveyor or a senior surveying technician. The party chief leads day-to-day work activities.
Surveyors also work with civil engineers, landscape architects, cartographers and photogrammetrists, and urban and regional planners to develop comprehensive design documents.
The following are examples of types of surveyors:
Boundary or land surveyors determine the legal property lines and help determine the exact locations of real estate and construction projects.
Engineering or construction surveyors determine the precise location of roads or buildings and proper depths for building foundations. They show changes to the property line and indicate potential restrictions on the property, such as what can be built on it and how large the structure can be. They also may survey the grade and topography of roads.
Forensic surveyors survey and record accident scenes for potential landscape effects.
Geodetic surveyors use high-accuracy technology, including aerial and satellite observations, to measure large areas of the Earth’s surface.
Marine or hydrographic surveyors survey harbors, rivers, and other bodies of water to determine shorelines, the topography of the floor, water depth, and other features.
Mine surveyors survey and map the tunnels in an underground mine. They survey surface mines to determine the volume of materials mined.
Work Environment for Surveyors
Surveyors held about 48,000 jobs. The largest employers of surveyors are as follows:
Architectural, engineering, and related services 69%
Government 10%
Construction 7%
Self-employed workers 5%
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction 2%
Depending on the specific job duties, surveying involves both fieldwork and office work. Fieldwork involves working outdoors in all types of weather, walking long distances, and standing for extended periods while taking measurements. Surveyors sometimes climb hills with heavy packs of surveying instruments. When working near hazards such as traffic, surveyors generally wear brightly colored or reflective vests so they may be seen more easily. When working in underground mines, surveyors work in enclosed spaces.
Traveling is often part of the job, and surveyors may commute long distances or stay at a project location for an extended period of time. Those who work on resource extraction projects may work in remote areas and spend long periods away from home.
Surveyor Work Schedules
Surveyors usually work full time. When construction activity is high, they may work more hours than usual.
How to Become a Surveyor.
Get the education you need: Find schools for Surveyors near you!
Surveyors typically need a bachelor’s degree. They must be licensed before they can certify legal documents and provide surveying services to the public.
Education for Surveyos.
Surveyors typically need a bachelor’s degree because they work with sophisticated technology and math. Some colleges and universities offer bachelor’s degree programs specifically designed to prepare students to become licensed surveyors. Many states require individuals who want to become licensed surveyors to have a bachelor’s degree from a school accredited by ABET. A bachelor’s degree in a closely related field, such as civil engineering or forestry, is sometimes acceptable as well. An associate’s degree may be sufficient in some cases with additional training.
Surveyor Training
In order to become licensed, most states require approximately 4 years of work experience and training under a licensed surveyor after obtaining a bachelor’s degree. Other states may allow substituting more years of work experience and supervised training under a licensed surveyor in place of education.
Work Experience in a Related Occupation for Surveyors
In some states, surveying technicians can become licensed surveyors after working for as many as 10 years under a licensed surveyor. The amount of work experience required varies by state. Check with your state for more information.
Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations for Surveyors
All 50 states and the District of Columbia require surveyors to be licensed before they can certify legal documents that show property lines or determine proper markings on construction projects. Candidates with a bachelor’s degree usually must work for several years under the direction of a licensed surveyor in order to qualify for licensure.
Although the process of obtaining a license varies by state, the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying has a generalized process of four steps:
Complete the level of education required in your state
Pass the Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) exam
Gain sufficient work experience under a licensed surveyor
Pass the Principles and Practice of Surveying (PS) exam
Most states also have continuing education requirements for surveyors to maintain their license.
Important Qualities for Surveyors
Communication skills. Surveyors must provide clear instructions to team members, clients, and government officials. They also must be able to follow instructions from architects and construction managers, and explain the job’s progress to developers, lawyers, financiers, and government authorities.
Detail oriented. Surveyors must work with precision and accuracy because they produce legally binding documents.
Physical stamina. Surveyors traditionally work outdoors, often in rugged terrain. They must be able to walk long distances and for long periods.
Problem-solving skills. Surveyors must figure out discrepancies between documents showing property lines and current conditions on the land. If there were changes in previous years, they must discover the reason behind them and reestablish property lines.
Time-management skills. Surveyors must be able to effectively plan their time and their team members’ time on the job. This is critical when pressing deadlines exist or while working outside during winter months when daylight hours are short.
Visualization skills. Surveyors must be able to envision new buildings and altered terrain.
Job Outlook for Surveyors
Employment of surveyors is projected to grow 2 percent over the next ten years, slower than the average for all occupations.
Surveyors will continue to be needed to certify boundary lines, work on resource extraction projects, and review sites for construction. However, the use of drones and other technologies is expected to increase worker productivity and may therefore limit employment growth.
Job Prospects for Surveyors
Overall job opportunities are expected to be good, but those with knowledge of a variety of surveying specializations and a bachelor’s degree from an ABET-accredited school will have the best job opportunities.
Demand for traditional surveying services is closely tied to construction activity, therefore job opportunities will vary by geographic region, and often depend on local economic conditions. When real estate sales and other construction activity slow down, surveyors may face greater competition for jobs. However, because surveyors can work on many different types of projects, they may have steadier work than others in the industry when construction slows.
Employment projections data for Surveyors, 2019-29
Occupational Title Employment, 2019 Projected Employment, 2020 Change, 2020 -30
Percent Numeric
Surveyors 48,000 48,700 2 800
Careers Related to Surveyors
Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
Cartographers and photogrammetrists collect, measure, and interpret geographic information in order to create and update maps and charts for regional planning, education, emergency response, and other purposes.
Civil Engineers
Civil engineers design, build, supervise, operate, and maintain construction projects and systems in the public and private sector, including roads, buildings, airports, tunnels, dams, bridges, and systems for water supply and sewage treatment.
Civil Engineering Technicians
Civil engineering technicians help civil engineers to plan, design, and build highways, bridges, utilities, and other infrastructure projects. They also help to plan, design, and build commercial, industrial, residential, and land development projects.
Construction and Building Inspectors
Construction and building inspectors ensure that construction meets local and national building codes and ordinances, zoning regulations, and contract specifications.
Drafters
Drafters use software to convert the designs of engineers and architects into technical drawings. Most workers specialize in architectural, civil, electrical, or mechanical drafting and use technical drawings to help design everything from microchips to skyscrapers.
Geographers
Geographers study the Earth and the distribution of its land, features, and inhabitants. They also examine political or cultural structures and study the physical and human geographic characteristics of regions ranging in scale from local to global.
Hydrologists
Hydrologists study how water moves across and through the Earth’s crust. They use their expertise to solve problems in the areas of water quality or availability.
Landscape Architects
Landscape architects design parks and the outdoor spaces of campuses, recreational facilities, businesses, private homes, and other open areas.
Surveying and Mapping Technicians
Surveying and mapping technicians collect data and make maps of the Earth’s surface. Surveying technicians visit sites to take measurements of the land. Mapping technicians use geographic data to create maps. They both assist surveyors and cartographers and photogrammetrists.
Urban and Regional Planners
Urban and regional planners develop land use plans and programs that help create communities, accommodate population growth, and revitalize physical facilities in towns, cities, counties, and metropolitan areas.
16. NURSING SCIENCE
Nursing is a vocational degree that develops your personal skills and professionalism, which are qualities by many employers want
Job options
Jobs directly related to your degree include:
Adult nurse
Children’s nurse
Health play specialist
Health visitor
High intensity therapist
Learning disability nurse
Mental health nurse
Midwife
Paramedic
Physician associate
Jobs where your degree would be useful include:
Counsellor
Further education teacher
Genetic counsellor
Health service manager
Higher education lecturer
Medicinal chemist
Play therapist
Police officer
Social worker
Remember that many employers accept applications from graduates with any degree subject, so don’t restrict your thinking to the jobs listed here.
Work experience
Getting some related work experience in a clinical environment is strongly recommended if you want to work in the healthcare sector. As well as increasing your knowledge of the industry, work experience gives you the opportunity to make important contacts.
Volunteering, internships, part-time jobs and student projects can all help to improve key skills which are looked for by employers.
Prepare by finding work as a care worker or healthcare assistant, volunteering in a hospital or with any other work experience that involves caring for others. Visiting hospitals and talking directly to nurses about the role is also helpful.
Typical employers
Opportunities can be found with the following employers:
the National Health Service (NHS)
private sector clinics and hospitals
private sector healthcare providers contracted to provide services to NHS patients
voluntary organisations
local authorities (for work in nursing and residential homes)
schools and further and higher education institutions
industry
prisons and the armed forces
private sector organisations, such as leisure cruise companies and private nursing homes.
Find out more about employers in healthcare, charity and voluntary work and other job sectors.
Skills for your CV
A degree in nursing gives you a range of professional and technical skills, including the ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team and to support and advise patients and their families. You also develop the ability to assess, analyse, monitor and evaluate the care you deliver.
In more general terms, you gain skills and personal qualities sought by employers in a range of sectors. These include:
flexibility
adaptability
empathy
organisation and time management
leadership
determination and tenacity
the ability to conduct research
problem-solving and decision-making skills.
Further study
A variety of post-registration courses are available. Graduate nurses can take Masters degrees in subjects such as advanced clinical practice and medical decision-making, as well as various other specialist subjects. You can also train to become an advanced nurse practitioner.
Some of these options will be offered by your employer as part of your post-registration education and practice (PREP) requirement. Some training may be offered through study days. Healthcare is constantly developing, and practising nurses need to keep up with technology, current issues and the changing needs of the population through ongoing trainior more information on further study and to find a course that interests you, see Masters degrees and search postgraduate courses in nursing.
17. MARINE ENGINEERING
Marine Engineers are responsible for the design and connstruction of seagoing vessels and structures, focusing primarily on their internal systems. Simply put, they design the onboard electrical, environmental and propulsion systems aboard everything from oil platforms to cruise ships.
No environment on Earth is as demanding as the sea. Designing and building vessels and structures that can withstand the wind, waves and salt exposure requires special education and experience. The modern world’s global commerce is largely enabled by the ocean-going technological marvels created by Marine Engineers.
Today’s oceans are plied by oil and cargo ships that are amazingly huge and complex. The largest ship ever built, once named Seawise Giant, was over 1500 feet long. Royal Caribbean International recently launched 2 Oasis class cruise ships, floating paradises that routinely carry over 5000 happy cruisers on vacation.
The Marine Engineering involved in assuring the safety of the crews and passengers of these behemoths is challenging and exacting. Marine engineers routinely break records and create new technology as a normal course of doing business.
Becoming a Marine Engineer
The normal path to becoming a Marine Engineer is to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university. Many public and private colleges offer undergraduate degrees in Marine Engineering, but there are some schools that specialize in this arena. Marine Engineers are highly involved in the design and operation of shipboard electrical and environmental systems as well as power plants, so you’ll take courses in electrical engineering, fluid dynamics and power production.
Moving on to a Master’s Degree in Marine Engineering will often encompass a broader area of study including Naval Architecture. Naval Architecture involves the overall structural design of ships and other vessels.
At the pinnacle of Marine Engineering are professionals who have earned their Doctor of Philosophy (Ph. D.) in the field. With the complexity involved in many of these large-scale systems, the sky is the limit.
Marine Engineer Schools
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A Day in the Life of a Marine Engineer
Based on the performance specifications of the vessel, marine engineers design the propulsion system to deliver the power required. They also design the steering system, heating, cooling and ventilation systems and hydraulics for the ship. If the job is a retrofit, the marine engineer studies the current plans before designing the new systems.
Once marine engineers know what equipment is to be installed and where each duct, machine and power source is to be located, they prepare detailed plans. They create layouts and schematics, determine the work schedule and prepare a cost estimate for approval by management.
As the work progresses, marine engineers may conduct periodic inspections or tests to catch any issues as soon as possible. They ensure that design specifications are being followed, monitor the project budget and prepare status reports for clients or managers.
Although most of a marine engineer’s work can be performed in an office, there are times when sea trials are part of the job. Marine engineers may spend time aboard ship to test how the vessel performs or to gather information for maintenance or an upcoming retrofit. Engineers who specialize in offshore drilling may spend some time on the oil rig to supervise maintenance or repair efforts involving the rig’s mechanical systems.
Demand for Marine Engineers is expected to continue growing about as fast as the national average for all careers. New fields like alternative energy from wind and tides combine with traditional ship design and oil platform work to generate a healthy demand for professional Marine Engineers.
The demand is expected to be fueled by a combination of factors. First, many existing vessels may need to be retrofitted to comply with new regulations involving pollution and emissions standards. As oil companies continue to move offshore to drill, marine engineers will also be needed to design and service these rigs. Marine engineers will be needed to work on offshore energy sources, such as wind turbines. However, as marine engineering is a relatively small field, the numerical change is only expected to be about 1,000 new jobs.
Career advancement usually follows with experience in the field. You’ll normally start off focusing on specific systems, and move on to more complex applications as you increase your experience and education. There are many opportunities operating systems in their native maritime environment, but if life at sea isn’t for you, there are many office-based jobs where skills like Computer Aided Design (CAD) come into play.
Career Advancement Opportunities
Marine engineers can advance into supervisory or management positions with experience. Typically, the USCG licenses can help marine engineers move up; as the level of license increases, responsibilities normally increase. Some marine engineers move into sales, using their technical knowledge to help clients plan and execute projects.
Is Marine Engineering the right career for you?
Like any engineering field, Marine Engineering requires a strong background in math and science. Pursuing and engineering degree is a serious commitment and is not to be taken lightly.
Along with math and science skills, you’ll probably do well if you’re fascinated by the ocean and the engineering involved with in harnessing the power of the sea. Not all Marine Engineers work safely behind a desk designing systems. If you don’t think you ever want to spend time on a ship or other off-shore structure, you might think about a different career choice. However, if ships and the sea call to you, this is a rewarding profession worthy of consideration.
18. NAUTICAL SCIENCE
of Nautical Science is important for mariners to ensure that they can navigate, manage, and operate a ship on the ocean transporting cargoes for goods and services around the world and along coastlines everywhere. Nautical science is the study of the principles and practices of operating different types and sizes of vessels safely, efficiently and cost-effectively. Some topics within nautical science include navigation, ship stability and ship handling, meteorology, propulsion, fire safety, security and more.
A degree in Nautical Science will give you many options for employment in the maritime transportation industry. You will be a certified seafarer with the ability to continue working your way into senior ranks through continuing education.
Upon graduation, you will begin your career as an Officer of the Watch (Deck Officer) and a Limited Tonnage Master (Captain). In this role, you will be an important part of the ship’s management team. While on watch, you will be responsible for making decisions on steering and maneuvering the ship, controlling communications and navigation, and using technological systems. With continuing education, you can achieve higher ranks, such as: Third Deck Officer, Second Deck Officer, Chief Deck Officer (Chief Mate), and Master (Ship’s Captain).
The maritime industry is relied upon worldwide, and is thus an very strong market to work in. As of 2018, the median pay for employees in the maritime transportation industry was $54,400 per year, at $26.16 per hour with an additional $20,000 per year in overtime at this paygrade, with 83,400 jobs in this industry.
The average salary of a Deck Officer is roughly $97,000.
With a degree in Nautical Science, you will have the opportunity to work in different maritime industries on different types of vessels, such as:
Container Ships Cruise Liners
Bulk Carriers Ferries Oil & Gas Tankers
Deep Water Berths Off-shore Energy
Cargo Ships Dredging Companies
Port Work Specialist Vessels – Seismic & Exploration Ships, Pilot Vessels, Tugs and Mega Yachts
As a Deck Officer, your roles may include:
Officer – Maintenance Navigation & Ship Handling
Passage & Voyage Planning Ensuring safety is maintained when operating the ship, i.e. safety of the crew and the environment.
Watch Shipboard Administration
Handling, loading and care of cargoes on the ship.
At NMI, the Associate program incorporates 27 credits of general education courses and 50 credits of nautical science courses ranging from an Introduction to Nautical Science course in the first semester to an Advanced Shiphandling course in the final semester of the program. Our teaching model includes hands on learning, simulator training, classroom theory and internship experiences for all styles of learning.
Your two 90-day summer internships (Semesters at Sea) will provide you with:
Industry hands-on experience working as part of a vessel’s crew
Accumulation of approved sea-time to be applied to professional licensing
Course credits for ENG111 Sea Journal I, ENG112 Sea Journal II
Course credits for NS102 STCW Navigational Watch I and NS102A STCW Navigational Watch II which include required practical demonstration sign-offs recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard as part of the program’s approval.
Through your residential classes and your internships, completion of your Nautical Science degree will provide you with an array of skills, including technical and non-technical skills, such as:
Technical Skills
Health & Safety Training Fire Fighting
First Aid Training Sea Survival
Radio Communications Training Navigation Training
Meteorology Training Personal Safety & Social Responsibility
Logistics & Passage / Voyage Planning Mathematical Ability
Non-Technical Skills
Problem-solving Self-discipline & Self-reliance
Communication – Verbal & Written Taking Responsibility & Accountability
Interpersonal – Intercultural interaction Organization – Workspace & Self
Flexibility & Adaptability – Limited time off in some industries e.g. Cruise Liners as you are expected to work and entertain clients as required. Demonstrating Professionalism – Corporate image is important to this industry
Multi-tasking Logical/Practical Thinker
Teamwork & Leadership Resourceful
Self-confidence & ability to inspire confidence in others Decision-making
After obtaining a degree in Nautical Science at NMI, you may qualify for the following License/Credentials and Endorsements:
License/Credential
United States Commonwealth of Dominica
Able Seaman – Limited II/3 Master Less Than 500 GT
Master 100 Ton
Mate 200 To
Endorsements
STCW Basic Safety Training Assistance Towing Proficiency in Survival Craft
Radar Observer (Unlimited) Auxiliary Sail ECDIS
Automatic Radar Plotting Aids
(ARPA)
Tankerman Barge PIC RFPN
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Career in Nautical Science
Default imageBAISHALI MUKHERJEEMARCH 25, 2018CAREER GUIDANCE, COLLEGE ADMISSION GUIDANCE, PARENTS MUST READ, UNDER GRADUATE
A sailor’s ability to navigate a ship on the oceans for making from port to port and along the coastlines of the world is based on his/ her knowledge of Nautical Science. It is the precise study of the principles and practices of operating various types and sizes of vessels, some of which are highly specialized and state-of-the art in inland waters, coastal areas and on the high seas, and includes topics such as navigation, ship stability and ship handling, cargo-work, propulsion, and meteorology, to name a few.
Course details
Study in nautical science can create opportunities for jobs as a marine engineer or navigation officer. Major Opportunities include becoming a deck or navigation officer. One can opt for a three-year B.Sc. Nautical Science or Maritime Science course approved by the Director- General of Shipping (DGS). However, to become a marine engineer, one should take admission to a college approved by the Director- General of Shipping (DGS). A four-year professional marine engineering degree course is the right path for a career in nautical science.
Academically brilliant students who have cleared plus-two level with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and English are eligible to study these courses. Expertise in English and communication skills are considered to be an added advantage.
One can also get into the field of Merchant Navy directly. Aspirants who have passed plus-two with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics have the eligibility to get hired as deck cadets. Young graduates with a mechanical or electrical engineering degree can also join as engine cadets after undertaking a basic pre-sea training.
Where to study
The Marine Engineering and Research Institute (MERI), Kolkata, with as many as 160 seats, is a famous institute that offers a four- year degree in marine engineering. The Training Ship (TS) Chanakya, Navi Mumbai, with 120 seats, offers a three- year B.Sc. nautical science course. T.S. Chanakya coaches the cadets to become navigating officer and MERI marine engineers and polyvalent officers. MERI, Mumbai, with 30 seats offers a three-year B.Sc. (maritime science) course.
Ranks in the Indian Institute of Technology-Joint Entrance Examination (JEE), fitness tests for both mental and physical agility and individual performance at the counselling and interview sessions include the admission criterion for these three institutes. Clearing the plus two or equivalent levels with pure science and scoring a minimum 60 per cent marks (55 per cent for Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe and physically challenged candidates) in aggregate is mandatory to write the JEE test.
Other institutes
The Cochin University of Science and Technology offers a B. Tech in Marine Engineering residential programme.
The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) in partnership with DGS, Mumbai, offer the B.Sc. nautical science course.
Academy of Marine Education and Training, Gandhi Nagar, Saligramam, Chennai, offers BE in marine engineering and B.Sc. nautical science
R.L. Institute of Nautical Sciences, Madurai, Tamil Nadu offers B.Sc. in marine engineering and B.Sc. in nautical technology; while Tolani
Maritime Institute, Pune, offers only B.Sc. marine engineering.
Vels Academy of Maritime Education and Training, Vel Nagar, Chennai, The Marine Engineering Training Institute under Cochin Shipyard Ltd. and Marine Engineering and Research Institute, Mumbai offer one-year pre-sea training for graduates in mechanical engineering or naval architecture. Students with diploma in mechanical, marine, naval architecture, electrical and electronics engineering can also enrol for a two- year pre-sea training.
Tamil Nadu Maritime Academy, Thoothukudi, under the Tamil Nadu Government, conducts pre-sea training, seaman rating (deck) and engine room rating (engine) courses.
Shipping Corporation of India, Mumbai, provides training facilities for graduates in mechanical engineering and naval architecture to qualify as trainee marine engineers.
For those considering an enrollment in private colleges or institutions it is very important to ensure that the college or institute of choice is recognised by the DGS. TNU is one of the few private colleges in Eastern India that can boast of an in-house, high-tech Ship-in-Campus with advanced bridge simulation facilities. This novel infrastructure facility, built in compliance with international standards, houses original ship equipment in order to give budding Marine Engineers and Nautical Science cadets a hands-on experience of what a naval career entails.
Career Prospects
The Bachelor in Nautical Science degree enables the graduates to become Navigating Officers on-board on merchant ships plying worldwide. Joining as a Deck Cadet after graduation, one needs to complete the training process. The career graph then take the cadets through various shipboard experiences and training courses, for finally rising to the coveted level of Captain (Master) of a merchant ship, based on their performance in relevant examinations conducted by the Directorate General of Shipping. The higher position that a navigating officer can aspire for is to become the master of the ship (Captain). Other options are positions like marine engineer, chief engineer, polyvalent officer and master or chief engineer.
Many Indian graduates are now placed on board ships owned and managed by various shipping companies including Elegant Marine Services, Wallem Ship Management, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, MSC Ship Management, United Ocean Ship Management, Gulf Energy Maritime Services (GEM), Wilhelmsen Ship Management, MMS Maritime (MMSI),Apeejay Shipping, Univan Ship Management, Searland Management Service, and Herald Maritime Service, etc.
The salary of a fresh graduate in nautical science is roughly rupees 40, 000. Those joining international companies receive much higher pay packages.
19. GEOLOGY
Careers In Geology
What You Can Do with a Degree in Geology
You can view a bachelor’s degree in geology in two ways:
Pre-professional training that leads directly to a career in geology, or
A broad, well-rounded undergraduate science program that offers excellent intellectual preparation for a large range of career options.
Excellent General Intellectual Training
Because geology majors traditionally overlook the usefulness of their general problem-solving skills, let’s stress option No. 2 first. Most undergraduate programs do not lead directly to jobs within their field. For example, few businesses hire people to discuss 19th century English literature. Instead, people in most majors head off to the University’s Placement and Career Services to learn more about the types of careers that are out there and about how to assess their skills, prepare an effective resume, and land summer internships and job interviews. It is worth visiting Placement and Career Services as soon as possible to figure out what opportunities exist and to find out when the major career fairs are.
If you pursue a career outside of geology, you will find yourself competing with a cross-section of undergraduate majors. This gives you one minor disadvantage and one major advantage. The disadvantage is that many employers do not really know what geology is or what it entails. (You score big, however, if you get someone who did geology as an undergraduate — it turns out that they are everywhere and they remember their major fondly.) This general level of geological ignorance opens up the opportunity for you to (briefly!!) extol the virtues of your training.
For example, compared to other sciences in which the answers are in the back of the book, geology deals with the real world. This means imperfect data sets, a mixture of descriptive and numerical data, open-ended problems with several possible solutions, and the necessity of picking the best explanation given limited data. This ability to logically confront open-ended and messy problems is directly analogous to making decisions in business, government, public policy, and other real-world situations because, in fact, life is messy!
Compared with non-science majors, geology majors have extensive experience with various software programs, are comfortable with all sorts of numerical calculations (even if you didn’t like calculus, you can certainly work with numbers far better than your average non-sciences major), are comfortable with technical issues, and are experienced at integrating and balancing a complex set of objective data (including both numerical and qualitative observations) when addressing a problem. If you made an effort to take classes that developed your writing and oral presentation skills, then be sure to tout these talents as well! Employers love people with technical skills who can also communicate clearly.
Typical Careers within the Earth Sciences
Let’s say you really want to be a professional geologist. Careers in geology generally fall into the following categories:
Corporate (oil, mining, environmental, engineering)
Nonprofit (environmental, planning, educational)
Government (local and regional planning, state and Federal environmental regulation and protection (D.E.P. and E.P.A.), geological engineering (PennDOT), state geological surveys, U.S. Geological Survey, National Park Service, state parks, E.P.A.)
Secondary education (Earth sciences)
Academic (community college, college, and university)
The American Geosciences Institute regularly publishes data on current and projected workforce needs for geoscientists. They also are compiling a set of pathways for geoscientists to follow to enter various careers. Each pathway is called a “Career Compass”. These one-page sheets are somewhat graphically complex, but if you look at the symbol key and read things over you can pretty quickly get an overview of the things you might want to do to become, for example, an environmental geologist. Click here to see their growing list.
An excellent way to learn more about working in industry, government, or the nonprofit world is to attend the monthly meetings of one or more of the following organizations:
The Pittsburgh Geological Society (PGS): Features a mix of geologists working in petroleum, geological engineering, environmental consulting, and government.
The Pittsburgh Association of Petroleum Geologists (PAPG): Focuses almost exclusively on oil and natural gas exploration.
The Association of Engineering and Environmental Geologists (AEG): Mainly environmental and engineering geologists.
The Geophysical Society of Pittsburgh (an official branch of the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG): Geophysicists with a strong emphasis on petroleum exploration.
These meetings feature a happy hour, dinner, and a formal lecture. The happy hour and dinner provide excellent opportunities to introduce yourself to random geoscientists and ask them about who they work for, what they do, and any advice they might have for you. If someone seems pretty interesting, ask them whether they might offer an internship. Instead of giving them a resume, make up business cards that give your name, major, expected graduation date, contact info, and that you are interested in an internship or, if the time is right, a full-time job. If “Interested in an Internship” is in bold, it will help remind them once they are back in the office to think about getting an internship approved by management.
Another great way to learn about geology careers to to check out this book from the library: Great Jobs for Geology Majors by Blythe Cameson.
(At this link you can also click on the LC Subject Heading “Geology –Vocational guidance” to see if newer books have been published.)
Getting a Career in the Petroleum Industry
The major oil companies (e.g., BP. ExxonMobil, Shell, etc.) tend to hire only geologists with masters or PhD degrees. Smaller oil and natural gas companies are more likely to hire students with bachelors degrees, especially during a boom cycle. Go to Pittsburgh’s professional society meetings to meet people and learn more about local hiring practices.
The best way to get a petroleum job is to go to a graduate school that attracts lots of oil companies on their annual recruitment tours. Ask the schools you are considering about their ties to oil companies. While getting master’s degree in a petroleum-focused subject (like seismic stratigraphy) seems to make sense, in fact many oil companies are less interested in your specific research skills and more interested in hiring the most intelligent people available. Also, the ability to productively work in a team is a must. So, do your thesis research on whatever you find interesting! A second way to get an oil company job is to scan the want ads of the major Houston, Texas, newspapers (most oil companies have their exploration divisions in Houston and advertise open positions in the newspapers). Corporate web pages may or may not solicit resumes.
The oil industry includes a lot of oil-field support services companies. For example, Schlumberger’s subsidiary GeoQuest provides a range of software programs to analyze and display subsurface seismic and wireline data. GeoQuest has hired people with undergraduate geology degrees to help service and support their software packages. Schlumberger and another major player, Halliburton, have offices around the world. Check out their websites for employment listings, and Schlumberger, at least, regularly comes to Pitt’s job fairs for scientists and engineers.
One advantage of working in the petroleum industry is the high salaries and great benefits. The main disadvantage is that the oil industry has historically gone through boom (hiring) and bust (firing) periods. We are currently in a bust period. The fracking boom has reduced the need for exploration geologists (because everyone knows where the shales are). As long as they are drilling they still need mud loggers (geologists who identify the rocks coming out of the drill hole) to tell the drillers where their bits are in the stratigraphy. This job entails being at remote drill sites for odd hours. They drill 24-7, so a mud logger might live continuously at the drill site for X days, then get Y days off.
Careers in the Mining Industry
Most mining jobs require at least a master’s degree in economic geology, so choose an appropriate graduate program and ask lots of questions before embarking on this career. Although many economic jobs can require you to live overseas, there are mining and quarrying operations all over the country, and persistent investigation and informational interviewing could easily turn up a job. If you are interested in mining, check out the undergraduate Mining Engineering Certificate offered through Pitt’s Department of Civil Engineering.
Careers in Environmental Geology
Environmental geology is a broad field that includes such things as site assessment, site remediation, groundwater geology, surface water hydrology, and ensuring that various organizations comply with the relevant environmental regulations. You could work for a government agency, for a company wanting to ensure its own compliance with environmental regulations, or for a private environmental consulting company. Check out the extensive entry under Wikipedia’s “Geoprofessions” page for more information. Many private companies hire at the BS and masters levels, with pay corresponding to your level of training and experience. There is a large number of firms with a correspondingly large range in size and personality. Talk to people you meet at the society meetings to get a sense of what the different companies do and how they operate.
Careers in Engineering Geology and Geotechnical Geology
Engineering geology is concerned with the stability of soil and rocks in a host of civil engineering, mining, and petroleum situations. Lower level geotechnical work often involves soil sampling and assessment of new construction sites. Higher level work involves the application of rock mechanics, geomorphology, and various engineering principles to the construction of road cuts, bridges, dams, locks, dikes, and major buildings. Wikipedia has nice pages devoted to geotechnical engineering and engineering geology (under “Geoprofessions”). One time-honored way to become an engineering geologist is to excel at structural geology and geomorphology and then simply get an entry-level job in the field. Hands-on work on field projects under the guidance of a senior environmental geologist is excellent training! Or you can go on to get at least a master’s degree in engineering geology and start out in the professional world with sharper skills and a higher-level position. The Army Corps of Engineers has their own guide to career development for geotechical engineers. Graduate schools that include an engineering graduate program include (in no particular order) Portland State University, University of Nevada–Reno, Colorado School of Mines, South Dakota School of Mines, Missouri University of Science and Technology, and the University of Texas at Austin.
Government and Nonprofit Careers
These jobs include basic field research for purposes ranging from the assessment of contaminated waste sites to the viability of future waste sites to the stability of road cuts and bridge pilings. They also include library and field research aimed at developing policy papers or undertaking basic outreach and public education. You could end up working for various environmental organizations, natural science museums, the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Park Service, regional and city planning agencies, and other such agencies that need geological expertise. Government jobs also include the United States Geological Survey, which has divisions that cover basic geology, water resources, and volcanic and earthquake hazards.
Careers in Teaching
A geology degree provides a broad scientific background for those wishing to teach science in a primary or secondary school. You should consult with the School of Education at Pitt for more information regarding the requirements for teaching various Earth science-related courses in public or private schools.
Academic Careers
To become a professor you will have to get a PhD. Be aware that the academic career track is highly competitive. Getting into a good PhD program is relatively easy, getting a postdoctoral position is somewhat challenging, getting a tenure-track position is quite challenging, and earning tenure is sometimes even more challenging. Be prepared for stress the whole way. While it is most difficult to obtain and keep a position at a major research university, even four- year liberal arts colleges generally expect enough research and grant money to make tenure a challenge. In general, the pursuit of an academic career requires enough love of research and teaching that you do not mind the years of hard work and stress.
20. BIOCHEMISTRY
Biochemistry is a science course that is laboratory-based. It combines both chemistry and biology to explore chemical processes in relationship with living things. Biochemists understand and solve some biological topics like communication among cells, especially when they are under attack and fight to ward off diseases.
In a clearer term, biochemistry is the foundation of some advances in medicine, agriculture, genetic engineering, and other influential science departments. In biochemistry, students do not just study human life, but other living organisms in the environment. Furthermore, it requires more than a bachelor’s degree to apply for research positions in academia or higher leadership.
Biochemistry is quite wide and versatile, due to the fact that it combines two fields, biology and chemistry. You can be found in labs, performing clinical researches, or outside the lab performing such tasks as sales and marketing. The job of a biochemist could be to examine the immune response of the body to germs and allergens. They could also analyze the effect of developed drugs on the body or illnesses.
How to Become a Biochemist
Becoming a biochemist first starts from the mind. You have to discover your passion for science before beginning your academic training, right from high school. You are required to take advanced subjects like biology, mathematics, chemistry and physics.
After that, you can go for an undergraduate bachelor’s degree in biochemistry to become a biochemist. With your bachelor’s degree, you are qualified for entry-level positions like a research assistant, inspector, or technical sales representative.
With a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, you can decide to pursue a master’s degree. A master’s degree in biochemistry gives you an edge to land more advanced positions in commercial industries where foods and other products are manufactured, or you could work as a marketing or sales representative.
With a PhD in biochemistry, you would be qualified to take part in research projects. By then, you have chosen an area of specialty so as to meet the doctoral level standards. It takes about 5 – 7 years to complete a PhD in biochemistry, under the guidance of a committee of several senior scientists. There are some programs that offer financial aids and scholarships to complete a PhD program. You can search for the institutions offering that and make your choice while considering other factors like location, cost of living, and so on.
With you certificate, you can grow your career in areas like teaching, lab work, marketing, sales, administration in both private or public sectors. If you choose to work in an academic setting, your job would include teaching and researching. You could also choose to become a consultant in the field, where other professionals come for professional advice with a fee attached to each consultation. With the endless possibilities of technology, you can choose to become an entrepreneur, setting up your own lab or office and working on your own terms and pace, while growing your career.
Jobs You Can Get With a Degree in Biochemistry
Here are some available jobs you can do with a degree in biochemistry:
Biochemists and biophysicists: A biochemist or biophysicist specializes in areas that have to do with physical and chemical principles of developmental processes of cells, diseases, growth, and genetic patterns. Researching is a major specific role to be performed by these scientists. They research the effect of hormones, nutrients and drugs, as well as to understand the biological processes and tissues. They are found in laboratories managing a team of lab technicians who analyze and synthesize DNA, fats and protein.
It is reported by the Bureau of Labour Statistics (BLS) that the average salary of a biochemist or biophysicist is around $82 000 per annum. This is expected to rise by 11% by 2026 with over 3 500 additional positions.
Toxicologists: Toxicologists study the impacts of drugs on biological systems. They also take into consideration, the effects of such drugs on other substances. They develop procedures for analyzing and evaluating the effects of harmful substances while making an accurate judgment on the right dosages, proper ways, and the number of times they are to be taken. Monitoring of experiments and interpretation of results in labs are also part of their duties. Their role is closely related to that of pharmacologists.
Chemists and materials scientists: Chemists typically study molecular and atomic substances to understand the ways they interact. They develop new methods of testing and products. Also, they give instructions to scientists and technicians who work under them on the proper procedure for testing and analyzing chemical processes.
The average annual salary of chemists is estimated to be about $75 200, with a 7% job growth by 2026. This is according to BLS.
Chemistry professor: Professors teach, and that is exactly what chemistry professors do. Their typical day is spent teaching students and guiding them in laboratory studies. They also prepare study materials, grade testings, and also interact with students regarding issues bothering in class and laboratory activities.
scientific research in journals and other academic platforms. The basic requirement of a chemistry professor in a university is a doctorate, while those in colleges could have a master’s degree.
Forensic science technician: Of late, there has been an increase in the interest of people regarding forensic science technicians. This is due to some television shows like CSI and Bones that focus on what these technicians do. The shows may not be so accurate because of how simplified they project the work to be. However, it does not stop a forensic science technician from being what he is. His primary duty is to collect and analyze evidence that helps in investigating crimes and coming out with the possible perpetrator. They use such important body evidence as body fluids, hair, blood, and fingerprints. That is not all they do. They also take a photoshoot of crime scenes and record observations. The typical entry-level qualification is a bachelor’s degree in forensic science and related fields like biology and chemistry.
The average take-home of a forensic science technician is estimated to be around $57 000, according to BLS, and their estimated growth by 2026 is 17%, with more than 2 500 new jobs.
Pharmacologist: A pharmacologist is involved with the development and testing of drugs. That is, in addition to analyzing their component and interactions with biological systems. In essence, they ensure that drugs are effective and safe for human consumption. This may involve testing the drugs on animals or human volunteers, who sometimes, are paid for any risks or damage that may be caused by the drug. The duties of pharmacology are mostly laboratory-based. They may work during unusual hours in order to monitor some experiments.
Plastic surgeon: Nowadays, it looks like everyone gets plastic surgery to repair, reconstruct, or replace some body parts. The plastic surgeon helps them to accomplish that dream. They operate on the skin of the patient in some vital body parts like the breasts, trunks, hands, external genitalia, face, cranium, muscles, skeleton, and so on. Some people purposely want to change the outlook of their body parts for specific or personal reasons. Some women who have lost their breasts as a result of cancer could also go for breast reconstruction. Victims of accidents whose bodies have been damaged or disfigured might feel like the only way out is through body reconstruction. These are some of the things a plastic surgeon does.
A bachelor’s degree and a medical degree, together with internship and residency (depending on the area of specialization of the student), are vital requirements to qualify one for a plastic surgeon. This takes about 3 – 7 years to complete. The annual salary of a plastic surgeon is on the estimate of 208 000 per annum, with above-average growth of 13% by 2026. This is according to the BLS.
Environmental chemist: The job of environmental chemists include monitoring the air, water and soil, in order to study some chemicals and determine how they penetrated the environment, in addition to their effects on living organisms. Their studies also include ways in which human activities affect the chemicals in the environment. They monitor how contamination and pollution of the environment occur while performing such tasks as analytical testing, initiating product development, and leading conservative efforts. Environmental chemists need the help of broader expertise in biology, math, genetics, engineering and chemistry.
The estimated annual salary of environmental chemists by the BLS is $69 000 with job growth of 11%.
Technical Sales and marketing: They could also be referred to as sales engineers. A chemical marketer combines his expertise in science, business and personality traits to offer reliable solutions to both business and technical issues in the field. They are involved in advertising, market research, packaging, shipping, sales, and every other aspect of the product cycle. They typically sell medical and laboratory equipment and offer to consult services to their customers.
The median salary of a sales engineer is estimated to be $100 000 per annum with a job growth of 7% by 2026, as reported by the BLS.
Hazardous waste chemist: A hazardous waste chemist ensures that hazardous wastes are managed and disposed of properly and in a safe location. They are commonly called ‘hazmat’, an acronym from the combination of hazard and management. With their expertise, they identify harmful substances in the air, water and soil, assess the extent of their harm, and coordinate their removal.
WATCH! – 10 High Paying Careers You Don’t Need a University Degree to Start.
Necessary Skills Needed to Succeed as a Biochemist
Amongst others, the following skills are compulsory for you to excel in the field as a biochemist:
Technological skills: Biochemists rely on computers and medical technologies to perform their tasks. This means that they must have a basic knowledge of computer software and also know how to operate some equipment. You may take some courses on this effect.
Laboratory skills: As a lab scientist or technician, you need a lot of interpersonal skills to perform at your optimum. Skills like paying attention to details, ability to communicate effectively, team work, among others are very crucial. You also need writing skills because there are times you need to write reports and assessments.
In conclusion, biochemists are part of the reasons the world has not gone extinct. In case you are interested in the course, you are advised to take your time to study what we have put down for you in order to make the necessary decision.
