Job Outlook to 2022

For Today’s College Graduate

Based on U.S. Department of Labor Statistics

OCCUPATION EMPLOYMENT, JOB OUTLOOK JOB REQUIREMENTS AND PROSPECTS OCCUPATION EMPLOYMENT, JOB OUTLOOK JOB REQUIREMENTS AND PROSPECTS OCCUPATION EMPLOYMENT, JOB OUTLOOK JOB REQUIREMENTS AND PROSPECTS
2012 TO 2022 2012 TO 2022 2012 TO 2022

Business and Management Careers Engineering

Technologists
497,300 Up 5% at a
slower-than-
In general, opportunities will be best for individuals with an associate degree or other post-
secondary training in engineering technology. Mastering new technology and software will
Physicians and
Surgeons
691,400 Up 18% at a
faster-than-
To be licensed, physicians must graduate from an accredited medical school, pass a
licensing examination, and complete one to seven years of graduate medical education
and Technicians average rate likely become more important for workers in this occupation. Those who gain skills to help average rate (residency). A few medical schools offer combined undergraduate and medical school
Accountants and 1,275,400 Up 13% at an Overall job opportunities should be favorable, although jobseekers who have earned deploy the latest technological developments should have the best job prospects. Many programs that last six rather than the customary eight years. New physicians are much less
Auditors average rate professional recognition, especially as Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), should have engineering technicians will find work in emerging fields such as automation, remanufac- likely to enter solo practice and more likely to work as salaried employees of group medical
the best prospects. Job applicants who have a master’s degree in accounting or a master’s turing, 3-D printing, and alternative energies. practices, clinics, hospitals, or health networks.
degree in business with a concentration in accounting also may have an advantage. Com-
petition should be strong for jobs with the most prestigious accounting and business firms. Packaging * Growth Nearly everything comes in a “package.” Whether containing food and perishable goods, Physical 204,200 Up 36% at a Employment is expected to increase much faster than the average, as growth in the num-
Scientists projected at personal products, or sophisticated technical components, materials need to be pack- Therapists much faster- ber of individuals with disabilities or limited function spurs demand for therapy services.
Financial 532,100 Up 9% at an Growth is expected to be steady and will increase in line with the growth of the economy a faster-than- aged for sales, storage, or transport. Employment is available in areas such as package than-average After graduating from an accredited doctoral physical therapist educational program,
Managers average rate as a whole. Candidates with expertise in accounting and finance, particularly those with a average rate development, sales, purchasing, structural design, production, research, and marketing, rate therapists must pass a licensure exam before they can practice. About two-thirds of physi-
master’s degree, should enjoy the best job prospects. Strong computer skills and knowl- and requires creativity as well as a strong background in business, engineering, and science. cal therapists work either in hospitals or in offices of physical therapists.
edge of international finance are important; so are excellent communication skills, because
financial management jobs involve working on strategic planning teams.
Hospitality, Food, and Travel Careers
Pharmacists 286,400 Up 14% at an Pharmacists must have a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree from an accredited
average rate pharmacy program. They also must be licensed, which requires passing licensure and law
Manufacturing 1,863,000 Up 9% at an Employment growth is expected to be strongest for sales representatives working at exams. The population is aging, and older people typically use more prescription medicines
and Wholesale average rate independent sales agencies. Companies are increasingly giving their sales activities to than younger people. Higher rates of chronic diseases such as diabetes among all age
Restaurant and 321,400 Up 2% Most new jobs will arise in foodservice and drinking places as the number of establish-
Sales independent companies as a way to cut costs and boost revenue. Job opportunities should groups will also lead to increased demand for prescription medications.
Foodservice ments increases along with the population. Job opportunities should be best for food
Representatives be best for those with previous sales experience. Though the large size of the occupation
Managers service managers with several years of work experience in a restaurant or food service
creates many job openings, the relatively high pay will also likely attract a large number of Registered 2,711,500 Up 19% at a In all states, students must graduate from an approved nursing program and pass a
establishment. Jobseekers with a combination of work experience in food service and a
applicants. Nurses faster-than- national licensing examination in order to obtain a nursing license. Growth will occur for a
bachelor’s degree in hospitality, restaurant, or food service management should have an
edge when competing for jobs at upscale restaurants. average rate number of reasons, including an increased emphasis on preventive care; growing rates of
Advertising, 216,000 Up 12% at an Intense domestic and global competition in products and services offered to consumers chronic conditions, such as diabetes and obesity; and demand for health care services from
Marketing, average rate is expected to spur faster-than-average growth in employment. Employment is projected the baby-boomer population, as they live longer and more active lives. Almost two-thirds
Hotel (Lodging) 50,400 Up 1% As in other hotel occupations, night and weekend work is common. College graduates with
Promotions, to grow much faster than average in scientific, professional, and related services such as of nurses work in hospitals.
Managers degrees in hotel or restaurant management should have the best job opportunities. Those
Public Relations, computer systems design and related services and advertising and related services, as busi-
seeking jobs at hotels with the highest level of guest services are expected to face strong
and Sales nesses increasingly hire contractors for these services instead of additional full-time staff. Radiologic 119,200 Up 21% at a Formal training programs in radiography range in length from one to four years and lead
competition, as these positions are highly sought after by people trained in hospitality
Managers Technologists faster-than- to a graduate certificate, associate degree, or bachelor’s degree. Two-year associate degree
management or administration.
average rate programs are most prevalent. Although hospitals will remain the primary employer, a
HR, Training, and 495,500 Up 7% at a College graduates who have majored in a wide range of fields fill entry-level jobs. For many greater number of new jobs will be found in physicians’ offices and diagnostic imaging
Travel Agents 73,300 Down 12% Applicants with formal training should have the best opportunities to get a job as a travel
Labor Relations slower-than- specialized jobs, previous experience is an asset; for more advanced positions, including centers.
agent. Agents who specialize in specific destinations, luxury travel, or particular types of
Managers average rate those of managers, arbitrators, and mediators, it is essential. Keen competition for jobs
travelers such as ethnic groups or groups with a special interest or hobby should have the
and Specialists is expected due to the abundant supply of qualified college graduates and experienced Speech- 134,100 Up 19% at a Employment of speech-language pathologists is expected to grow rapidly because the
best chance for success. Clients who want customized travel experiences, such as adven-
workers. Language faster-than- expanding population in older age groups is prone to medical conditions that result in
ture tours, will continue to require the expertise of agents. However, the ability of travelers
to use the Internet to research vacations and book their own trips is expected to continue Pathologists average rate speech, language, and swallowing problems. About half work in educational services, and

Computing Careers to suppress demand for travel agents. most others are employed by health care and social assistance facilities. A master’s degree
in speech-language pathology is the standard credential. A clinical doctoral degree is the
new standard credential for audiologists.
Computer
Programmers
343,700 Up 8% at an
average rate
Many computer programmers work in computer system design and related services, an
industry that is expected to grow as a result of an increasing demand for new computer
Science and Mathematics Careers Veterinarians 70,300 Up 12% at an Graduation from an accredited college of veterinary medicine and a state license are required.
software. In addition, new applications will have to be developed for mobile technology average rate Most applicants to veterinary school have a bachelor’s degree and the professional veterinary
Biological 29,200 Up 19% at a A doctoral degree usually is required for independent research, but a master’s degree is
and the health care industry. Job prospects will be best for programmers who have a bach- medicine program typically takes four years to complete. Candidates can expect strong
Scientists faster-than- sufficient for some jobs in applied research or product development. A bachelor’s degree is
elor’s degree or higher and knowledge of a variety of programming languages. Keeping up competition for most veterinarian positions. Job seekers with specializations and prior work
average rate adequate for some non-research jobs. Doctoral degree holders face considerable competi-
to date with the newest programming tools will also improve job prospects. experience should have the best job opportunities.
tion for independent research positions, particularly in universities; holders of bachelor’s
or master’s degrees in biological science can expect better opportunities in non-research
Social Science and Social Service Careers
Computer 520,600 Up 25% at a Additional job growth is expected for computer systems analysts in health care fields. A
positions. Biotechnological research and development will continue to drive employment
Systems Analysts much faster- large increase is also anticipated in electronic medical records, e-prescribing, and other
growth. Those who gain laboratory experience through course work or employment during
than-average forms of health care IT, and analysts will be needed to design computer systems to accom-
their undergraduate studies will be the best prepared and have the best chances to gain
rate modate the increase. These analysts, who will be hired by organizations to design computer Correctional 469,500 Up 5% at a The work can be stressful and dangerous. Although some demand for correctional officers
employment or to enter graduate-level programs.
systems in a variety of industries, will move on to another assignment when they are Officers slower-than- will occur over the coming decade, anticipated budget constraints and a general down-
finished. average rate ward trend in crime rates in recent years will likely mitigate employment growth.
Biotechnologists 80,200 Up 10% at an Employment of biological technicians should increase, as the growing number of agricul-
average rate tural and medicinal products developed from the results of biotechnology research boosts
Computer 722,400 Up 17% at a As technology becomes more complex and widespread, support specialists will be Mental Health 166,300 Up 29% at a A master’s degree is often required to be licensed or certified as a counselor. Growth is
demand for these workers. Also, an aging population and continued competition among
Support faster-than- needed in greater numbers to resolve the technical problems that arise. There are many Counselors much faster- expected as more people have mental health counseling services covered by their insur-
pharmaceutical companies are expected to contribute to the need for innovative and im-
Specialists average rate paths of entry to a job as a computer support specialist. There are usually clear advance- than-average ance policies. Furthermore, increasing numbers of people are expected to seek treatment
proved drugs, further spurring demand. Most growth in employment will be in professional,
ment possibilities for computer support specialists, creating new job openings. Applicants rate for mental and emotional problems than in earlier decades. As the population grows, the
scientific, and technical services and in educational services. Applicants who have laboratory
with a bachelor’s degree and a strong technical background should have the best job number of individuals entering therapy is expected to increase, as well. This trend will cause
experience, either through course work or through previous work experience, should have
opportunities. continued demand for counselors in mental health centers, hospitals, and colleges.
the best opportunities.

Education Careers
Economists 16,900 Up 14% at an Employment of economists is expected to grow about as fast as the average; most new jobs
Chemists 84,300 Up 2% at a A bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related discipline is the minimum educational require-
average rate will arise in private industry, including economic research and consulting firms. Candidates
slower-than- ment; however, many research jobs require a doctorate. Job growth will be concentrated
who hold a master’s or doctoral degree in economics will have the best employment prospects
average rate in pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing companies and in scientific research and
College and 1,267,700 Up 19% at a Opportunities for college and university teaching jobs are expected to improve, but many and advancement opportunities. Quantitative skills are important in all economics specialties.
development services firms. Graduates with a master’s degree, and particularly those with a
University faster-than- new openings will be for part-time or non-tenure-track positions. Prospects for teaching doctorate, will enjoy better opportunities than those with a bachelor’s degree.
Faculty average rate jobs will continue to be better in academic fields that offer attractive alternative nonaca- Lawyers 759,800 Up 10% at an Formal educational requirements for lawyers include a four-year college degree, three years
demic job opportunities—health specialties, business and computer science, for example, average rate in law school, and the passing of a written bar examination. Demand for lawyers will be
Environmental 21,200 Up 30% at a Environmental engineering technicians are expected to grow much faster than the average
which attract fewer applicants for academic positions. Educational qualifications for spurred by the growth of legal action in such areas as health care, intellectual property, in-
Engineers much faster- for all occupations. More environmental engineering technicians will be needed to comply
postsecondary teacher jobs range from expertise in a particular field to a Ph.D., depending ternational law, elder law, environmental law, and sexual harassment. Graduates with supe-
than-average with environmental regulations and to develop methods of cleaning up existing hazards.
on the subject being taught and the type of educational institution. rior academic records from well-regarded law schools will have the best job opportunities.
rate A shift in emphasis toward preventing problems rather than controlling those that already
exist, as well as increasing public health concerns resulting from population growth, also Police and 780,000 Up 5% at a Civil service regulations govern the appointment of police and detectives. Competition
Kindergarten, 1,519,700; Up 6-12% at an Public school teachers must have at least a bachelor’s degree, complete an approved will spur demand.
Elementary, 614,400; average rate teacher education program, and be licensed. Licensure is not required in private schools. A Detectives slower-than- should remain keen for higher paying jobs with state and federal agencies and police
Middle, and 955,800 number of states require that teachers obtain a master’s degree in education within a speci- average rate departments in affluent areas; opportunities will be better in local and special police
Foresters and 29,800 Up 12% at an Nearly two-thirds of salaried conservation scientists and foresters work for federal, state,
Secondary fied period after they begin teaching. Aspiring secondary teachers most often major in the departments that offer relatively low salaries or in urban communities where the crime rate
Conservation average rate or local governments. As a result, there is likely to be a large number of job openings for
School Teachers subject they plan to teach while taking a program of study in teacher preparation. is relatively high. Applicants with college training in police science or military police experi-
Scientists foresters and conservation scientists in government. In general, workers with a four-year
ence should have the best opportunities.
degree from an accredited university program, along with good technical and communica-
Librarians 148,400 Up 7% at a A master’s degree in library science usually is required; special librarians often need an addi- tion skills, should have the best opportunities for entry-level work.
slower-than- tional graduate or professional degree. A large number of retirements in the next decade is Reporters, 57,600 Down 13% Consolidation and convergence should continue in the publishing and broadcasting
average rate expected to result in many job openings for librarians to replace those who leave. Librarians Correspondents, industries. As a result, companies will be better able to allocate their news analysts, report-
Geoscientists 33,600 Up 18% at a Geoscientists who speak a foreign language and who are willing to work abroad should
increasingly use information technology to perform research, classify materials, and help and News ers, and correspondents to cover news stories. Since broadcasting and newspapers—the
faster-than- enjoy the best opportunities. An expected increase in highway building and other infra-
students and library patrons seek information. Jobs for librarians outside traditional set- Analysts two industries employing most of these workers—are dependent on advertising revenue,
average rate structure projects will be a source of jobs for engineering geologists.
tings will grow the fastest over the decade. Nontraditional librarian jobs include working employment growth will suffer during an economic downturn. Improving technology may
as information brokers and working for private corporations, nonprofit organizations, and Mathematicians 2,900 Up 22% at a Job competition will remain keen because employment in this occupation is relatively eventually lead to more employment growth in this occupation by opening up new areas
consulting firms. much faster- small and few new jobs are expected. Doctoral degree holders with a strong background in of work, such as online or mobile news divisions. The continued demand for news will cre-
than-average mathematics and a related discipline, such as engineering or computer science, who apply ate some job opportunities.

Engineering and Technical Careers rate mathematical theory to real-world problems will have the best job prospects in related
occupations. In addition, mathematicians with experience in computer programming will
better their job prospects in many occupations.
Industrial-
organizational
1,600;
145,100
Up 53%;
Up 11%
About 31 percent of psychologists worked in educational services, and 29 percent
worked in health care and social assistance. Nearly one-third of all psychologists were
Psychologists; self-employed. Most specialists, including clinical and counseling psychologists, need a
Aerospace 83,000 Up 7% at a New technologies and new designs for commercial and military aircraft and spacecraft
Physicists 15,600 Up 16% at a Scientific research and development services firms and the federal government employ three Clinical, Counsel- doctoral degree; school and industrial-organizational psychologists need a master’s degree.
Engineers slower-than- produced during the next decade should spur demand for aerospace engineers.
faster-than- out of five physicists and astronomers. Most jobs are in basic research and development, ing, and School Opportunities in psychology are limited for those with only a bachelor’s degree.
average rate Employment opportunities also should be favorable for those trained in computational
average rate usually requiring a doctoral degree; master’s degree holders qualify for many jobs in applied Psychologists
fluid dynamics software, which has enabled companies to test designs in a digital
environment, thereby lowering testing costs. Although the number of degrees granted in research and development, while bachelor’s degree holders may qualify as technicians or
Social Workers 607,300 Up 19% at a While a bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement, a master’s degree in social work
aerospace engineering has begun to increase after many years of decline, new graduates research assistants. Doctoral degree graduates will face competition for basic research jobs.
faster-than- or a related field has become the standard for many positions. Employment growth will be
continue to be needed to replace aerospace engineers who retire or leave the occupation average rate driven by increased demand for health care and social services, but will vary by specialty.
for other reasons. Statisticians 25,500 Up 13% at an A master’s degree in statistics or mathematics is the minimum educational requirement for
average rate most jobs with this title. Among graduates with a master’s degree in statistics, those with
Urban and 38,700 Up 10% at an Local governments employ seven out of 10 urban and regional planners. Most entry-level
Architects 107,400 Up 17% at a With a growing number of students graduating with architectural degrees, strong competi- a strong background in an allied field—such as finance, biology, engineering, or computer
Regional average rate jobs require a master’s degree; bachelor’s degree holders may find some entry-level
faster-than- tion for internships and jobs in the field is expected. Those with up-to-date technical skills science—should have the best prospect of finding jobs related to their field of study.
Planners positions, but advancement opportunities are limited. Most new jobs will arise in affluent,
average rate and training in sustainable design could have an advantage. Employment of architects rapidly growing urban and suburban communities.
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 Health and Health Technology
projects or when the overall level of construction falls. Licensing requirements include a
professional degree in architecture, a period of practical training, and passing all divisions Chiropractors 44,400 Up 15% at a Chiropractors must be licensed, requiring two to four years of undergraduate education,
Imaging and Communications Careers
of the Architect Registration Examination. faster-than- completion of a four-year chiropractic college course, and passing scores on national and
Producers and 103,500 Up 3% at a Some job growth in the motion picture and video industry is expected to stem from strong
average rate state examinations. Employment is expected to increase faster than average as a result
Directors slower-than- demand from the public for more movies and television shows, as well as an increased
Biomedical 19,400 Up 27% at a The aging of the population and the focus on health issues will drive the demand for better of research and changing attitudes about alternative health care practices. Job prospects
average rate demand from foreign audiences for U.S.-produced films. In addition, production companies
Engineers much faster- medical devices and equipment designed by biomedical engineers. An increased concern should be good; establishing a new practice will be easiest in areas with a low concentra-
are experimenting with new content delivery methods, such as mobile and online TV,
than-average for cost-effectiveness will also boost demand in pharmaceutical manufacturing and related tion of chiropractors.
which may lead to more work opportunities for producers and directors in the future. These
rate industries. Biomedical engineers with only a bachelor’s degree may face competition for
Dentists 146,800 Up 16% at a The number of applicants to, and graduates from, dental schools has increased in recent delivery methods are still in their early stages, however, and their potential for success is not
jobs. Unlike many other engineering specialties, a graduate degree is recommended or
faster-than- years. Dentists usually complete at least eight years of education beyond high school. All entirely known.
required for many entry-level jobs.
average rate states require licensing. To qualify, candidates must graduate from an accredited dental
Craft and Fine 51,400 Up 3% at a More than half of all artists and related workers are self-employed—almost eight times the
Chemical 33,300 Up 4% at a Overall employment in the chemical manufacturing industry is expected to continue to de- school and pass written and practical examinations. As an increasing number of dentists
Artists including slower-than- proportion for all professional and related occupations. Artists usually develop their skills
Engineers slower-than- cline, although chemical companies will continue to employ chemical engineers to research from the baby-boom generation reach retirement age, many will retire or work fewer hours
Painters, average rate through a bachelor’s degree program or other postsecondary training in art or design. Keen
average rate and develop new chemicals and more efficient processes to increase output of existing and stop taking on new patients. Job prospects should be good, because younger dentists
Sculptors, and competition is expected for both salaried jobs and freelance work, because many talented
chemicals. However, there will be employment growth for chemical engineers in service- will be able to take over the work of older dentists who retire or cut back on hours, as well
Illustrators people are attracted to the visual arts.
providing industries, such as professional, scientific, and technical services, particularly for as provide dental services to accommodate the growing demand.
research in energy and the developing fields of biotechnology and nanotechnology.
Graphic 259,500 Up 7% at a The change in employment of graphic designers from 2012 to 2022 is projected to vary by
Dietitians and 67,400 Up 21% at a The importance of diet in preventing and treating illnesses is now well known. In recent
Designers slower-than- industry. Employment of graphic designers in newspaper, periodical, book, and directory
Civil Engineers 272,900 Up 20% at a Spurred by general population growth and an increased emphasis on infrastructure and Nutritionists faster-than- years, interest in the role of food in promoting health and wellness has increased, particu-
average rate publishers is projected to decline 16 percent from 2012 to 2022. However, employment of
faster-than- security, more civil engineers will be needed to design and construct safe and higher ca- average rate larly as a part of preventive health care in medical settings. In addition to employment
graphic designers in computer systems design and related services is projected to grow 35
average rate pacity transportation, water supply, and pollution control systems, and large buildings and growth, job openings will result from the need to replace experienced workers who retire or
percent over the same period. With the increased use of the Internet, graphic designers will
building complexes. They also will be needed to repair or replace existing roads, bridges, leave the occupation for other reasons. Demand for dietitians should be particularly strong
be needed to create designs and images for portable devices, websites, electronic publica-
and other public structures. in outpatient care facilities, offices of physicians, and food service management.
tions, and video entertainment media.
Computer 1,018,000 Up 22% at a The main reason for the rapid growth is a large increase in the demand for computer Diagnostic 58,800 Up 46% at a Although hospitals remain the primary employer of diagnostic medical sonographers,
Industrial 39,200 Up 4% at a Consumer demand for new products and new product styles should sustain the demand
Engineers much faster- software. Mobile technology requires new applications. The health care industry is greatly Medical much faster- employment is projected to grow more rapidly in physicians’ offices and in medical and
Designers slower-than- for industrial designers. Employment in the manufacturing industry is projected to experi-
(applications than-average increasing its use of computer systems and applications. Also, concerns over threats to Sonographers than-average diagnostic laboratories. Employment in these health care settings is projected to increase
average rate ence a slight decline over the projection period contributing to the slower-than-average
and systems) rate computer security could result in more investment in security software to protect computer rate because of a shift toward outpatient care whenever possible.
growth for industrial designers. Employment of industrial designers who design precision
networks and electronic infrastructure.
Medical and 325, 800 Up 22% at a Clinical laboratory technologists usually have a bachelor’s degree with a major in medical instruments and medical equipment is likely to grow more rapidly. Both areas require a
Electrical 306,100 Up 4% at a Job growth for electrical and electronics engineers will largely occur in engineering services Clinical much faster- technology or one of the life sciences; clinical laboratory technicians generally have either high degree of technical ability and design sophistication.
Engineers slower-than- firms, because more companies are expected to cut costs by contracting engineering Laboratory than-average an associate degree or a certificate. Job opportunities are expected to be excellent. An
Interior 54,900 Up 13% at an Rising demand for interior design of private homes, offices, restaurants and other retail estab-
average rate services rather than directly employing engineers. These engineers will also experience Technologists rate increase in the aging population will lead to a greater need to diagnose medical conditions
Designers average rate lishments, and institutions that care for the rapidly growing elderly population should spur
job growth in computer systems design, as these industries continue to implement more and Technicians through laboratory procedures. Medical laboratory technologists and technicians will be in
employment growth of interior designers. Creativity is crucial in all design occupations; most
powerful portable computing devices. The rapid pace of technological innovation and demand, to use and maintain the equipment needed for diagnosis and treatment.
designers need a bachelor’s degree, and candidates with a master’s degree hold an advantage.
development will likely drive demand for electrical and electronics engineers in research
and development, an area in which engineering expertise will be needed to develop Medical and 315, 500 Up 23% at a A master’s degree is the standard credential for most positions, although a bachelor’s
Photographers 136,300 Up 4% at a Competition for jobs is expected to be keen because the work is attractive to many people.
distribution systems related to new technologies. Health Services much faster- degree is adequate for some entry-level positions in smaller facilities. Employment will
slower-than- Technical expertise, imagination, and creativity are essential, and university-level prepara-
Managers than-average grow fastest in practitioners’ offices and in home health care services. Applicants with work
average rate tion can greatly enhance a photographer’s skill and experience set. More than half of all
Industrial 223,300 Up 5% at a As firms look for new ways to reduce costs and raise productivity, they increasingly will turn rate experience in health care and strong science, business, and management skills should have
photographers are self-employed; the most successful are able to adapt to rapidly chang-
Engineers slower-than- to industrial engineers to develop more efficient processes and reduce costs, delays, and the best opportunities.
ing technologies and are adept at operating a business.
average rate waste. This focus should lead to job growth for these engineers, even in some manufactur-
ing industries with declining employment overall. Because their work is similar to that done Occupational 113,200 Up 29% at a A master’s degree or higher is required in occupational therapy. Job opportunities should
Public Relations 229,100 Up 12% at an Competition is expected for entry-level jobs. Opportunities should be best for college
in management occupations, many industrial engineers leave the occupation to become Therapists much faster- be good for licensed occupational therapists in all settings, particularly in acute hospital,
Specialists average rate graduates who combine a degree in public relations, journalism, or another communica-
managers. Numerous openings will be created by the need to replace industrial engineers than-average rehabilitation, and orthopedic settings, because the elderly receive most of their treatment
tions-related field with a public relations internship or other related work experience. The
who transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force. rate in these settings. Occupational therapists with specialized knowledge in a treatment area
ability to communicate effectively is essential.
also will have better job prospects.
Mechanical 258,100 Up 5% at a Employment of mechanical engineers in manufacturing should increase more rapidly as
Technical Writers 49,500 Up 15% at a Job prospects, especially for applicants with solid communication and technical skills, are
Engineers slower-than- the demand for improved machinery and machine tools grows and as industrial machinery Optometrists 33,100 Up 24% at a Licensed optometrists must earn a Doctor of Optometry degree from an accredited
faster-than- expected to be good. The growing reliance on technologically sophisticated products
average rate and processes become increasingly complex. Also, emerging technologies in biotechnolo- much faster- optometry school and pass a written and a clinical state board examination. Excellent job
average rate in the home and the workplace and the increasing complexity of medical or scientific
gy, materials science, and nanotechnology will create new job opportunities for mechanical than-average opportunities are expected over the next decade because there are only 17 schools of
information needed for daily living will create many new job opportunities for technical
engineers. Additional opportunities for mechanical engineers will arise because a degree in rate optometry in the United States, resulting in a limited number of graduates each year. This
writers. However, competition will exist for technical writing positions with more desirable
mechanical engineering often can be applied in other engineering specialties. number is not expected to keep pace with demand. However, admission to optometry
companies and for workers who are new to the occupation.
school is competitive.
Microelectronic * Growth Microelectronic engineers working in the semiconductor industry use diverse knowledge
Authors and 129,100 Up 3% Most jobs in this occupation require a college degree in communications, journalism,
Engineers projected in engineering, solid-state electronics, physics, chemistry, materials science, optics, and Physician 86,700 Up 38% at a All states require that new PAs complete an accredited, formal education program resulting
Writers or English. The outlook for most writing and editing jobs is expected to be competitive,
at an average applied math and statistics to design and fabricate smaller and more powerful integrated Assistants much faster- in a master’s degree. Entrance into a PA program typically requires at least two years of col-
because many people with writing or journalism training are attracted to the occupation.
rate circuits (microchips), the vital component in almost every advanced electronic product than-average lege and some health care experience for admission. Physician assistants, who can perform
Editors 115,300 Down 2% Online publications and services are growing in number and sophistication, spurring the
manufactured today. rate many of the same services as doctors, are expected to have a larger role in giving routine
demand for writers and editors, especially those with Web experience.
care because they are more cost-effective than physicians. As more physicians retire or en-
ter specialty areas of medicine, more physician assistants are expected to take on the role of
primary care provider. Furthermore, the number of individuals who have access to primary
care services will increase as a result of federal health insurance reform. Earnings are high.

■ Shaded areas indicate career fields for which preparation is offered at Rochester Institute of Technology www.rit.edu 30M-P1714-12/14-COH-AGL
* Estimate not Available © 2014 Rochester Institute of Technology

This is a guidance service provided by the Division of Enrollment Management and Career Services at RIT.
These data come from a variety of sources, including labor statistics provided in the 2012-2013 Occupational Outlook Handbook.