Contact Us
Monday-Friday: 10 am–12 pm and 1–4 pm
Contact:
Fernando, Gihan S
Assistant Vice Provost
Butler Pavilion, Room 5th Floor on a map
Career Center 4400 Massachusetts Avenue NW Washington, DC 20016-8033-8011 United StatesCareer Guides by Undergraduate Major
Not sure what your career path might be, or how your major can help you get there? Use the career guides on this page to explore the skills you'll develop through your coursework, how you can apply them in a variety of fields, and where to learn more about industries related to your major. Then take one of the steps below to continue your decision-making process.
- Explore We Know Success, AlumniFire, and/or AU's alumni LinkedIn group to see what AU alumni in your major are doing
- Learn more about self-assessments to identify your VIPS. VIPS stands for values, interests, personality traits, and skills. Knowing your VIPS will help you explore and find satisfying majors and careers.
- Make an appointment with your career advisor to discuss your career goals and to learn tips and strategies for exploring career paths and related majors
- Make an appointment with your academic advisor (first-year students or all other undergraduate students) for information on major academic requirements and declaring a major
College of Arts and Sciences
African American & African Diaspora Studies
Coming soon...
American Studies
Marketable Skills
American Studies majors develop professional skills including:
- Knowledge of a broad range of social issues and their stakeholders
- Strong writing skills and experience adapting content for different audiences
- Critical thinking and creative problem solving skills
- Experience facilitating conversations and presenting in front of groups
- Strong analytical reasoning skills
Relevant Fields
- Advocacy
- Business Management
- Communications
- Education
- Historical Societies
- Advanced Degree
- Museum Administration
- Politics
- Social Services
Sample Occupations Titles
- Bachelor's Degree
- Cultural Artifact Specialist
- National / State Park Interpreter
- Policy Specialist
- Public Relations Advisor
- Research Assistant or Analyst
- Social Worker
- Advanced Degree
- Anthropologist
- Behavioral Scientist
- Librarian
- Lobbyist
- Medical Anthropology Director
- Professor
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- American Anthropological Association
- American Studies Association
- Archeological Institute of America
- The Society of Applied Anthropology
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Anthropology
Marketable Skills
Anthropology majors develop professional skills including:
- Strong written and oral communication skills
- Experience adapting content for different audiences
- Strong intercultural communication skills
- Proficiency with statistics and computer software
- Strong critical thinking skills
- Experience working with scientific equipment and measuring instruments
- The ability to adapt approaches in public relations, marketing, and politics to diverse populations
- Knowledge of archival methods and historical preservation techniques
- Demonstrated knowledge of human and world history
Relevant Fields
- Advocacy
- Archeology
- Behavioral Sciences
- Education
- Media
- Museum/Curatorial Services
- Research
- Social Services
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor's Degree
- Cultural Artifact Specialist
- Environmental Impact Assessment Reseacher
- National/State Parker Interpreter
- Policy Specialist
- Research Assistant or Analyst
- Advanced Degree
- Anthropology Professor
- Applied Anthropologist
- Behavioral Scientist
- Medical Anthropology Director
- Research Anthropologist
Social Worker
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listing:
- American Anthropological Association
- National Association for the Practice of Anthropology
- Society for Applied Anthropology
- Washington Association of Professional Anthropologists
- World Council of Anthropological Associations
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Arabic Studies
Marketable Skills
Arabic Studies majors develop professional skills including:
- Advanced language skills and proficiency for numerous fields and professions
- Knowledge of Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and Colloquial Arabic
- An understanding of a broad range of social, geographical, and cultural issues
- Strong writing skills and experience adapting content for different audiences
- The ability to locate and use primary sources in research
- The ability to apply cultural proficiency in a variety of professions
- Knowledge of historical origins of issues, problems, and trends
- Experience locating, collecting, evaluating, and organizing data and documents
- Critical thinking and creative problem solving skills
Relevant Fields
- Communication
- Community Services
- Education
- Foreign Service
- Government
- Intelligence
- International Law
- Journalism
- Nonprofit Organizations
- Social Services
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor's Degree
- Educator
- Foreign Correspondent
- Foreign Service Officer
- Intelligence Officer
- International Business Consultant
- Nonprofit Manager
- Research Analyst
- Translator/Linguist
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listing:
- American Association of Teachers of Arabic (AATA)
- Middle East Studies Association (MESA)
- Modern Language Association (MLA)
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Arab World Studies
Coming soon...
Art History
Marketable Skills
Art History majors develop professional skills including:
- Strong critical thinking skills
- Strong writing and visual analysis skills
- Ability to present ideas and analysis to audiences
- The ability to find, collect, and evaluate published researched and primary sources
- An aptitude for creative problem-solving and decision-making
Internships provide additional skills including:
- Museum and gallery publicity and public events organizing
- Facilitating discussion of art works and presenting in front of groups
- Experience documenting, preserving, and displaying historically valuable art and objects
- Experience working with others on team-oriented projects
Relevant Fields
- Art Administration/Arts Manage
- Arts Advocacy Organizations
- Art and Cultural Criticism
- Arts Publishing and Editorial Work
- Digital Arts Publication
- Museum Collections Management
- Museum Activities Publicity
- Museum Staffing and Support
- Museum Development and Fund-raising
- Visual Resources and Archival Curatorship
- Museum Education
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor's Degree
- Bibliographer
- Art History Teacher
- Archivist Assistant
- Curatorial Assistant
- Events Coordinator
- Research Assistant
- Gallery Assistant
- Editorial Assistant
- Museum Development Assistant
- Advanced Degree: MA
- Art Therapist
- Conservator Assistant
- Historic Preservation Assistant
- Community College Instructor
- Digital Librarian
- Gallery Curator
- Event Organizer
- Visual Resources Curator
- Museum Educator
- Advanced Degree: PhD
- University Professor
- Archivist
- Conservator
- Historic Preservation Officer
- Program Director, Arts Advocacy
- Museum Curator
- Museum Education Director
- Museum Collections Manager
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Asia, Pacific, and Diaspora Studies
Marketable Skills
- Historical Knowledge
- Quantitative/Qualitative Analysis
- Cultural Competence
- Written/Oral Communication
- Teamwork
- Proficiency in a Foreign Language
Relevant Fields
- Government/Policy
- Leadership/Business
- Journalism
- Education
- Law/Immigration Law
- Research
- Social Work
Sample Occupations Titles
- Translator/Interpreter
- Foreign Correspondent
- Foreign Affairs Analyst/Consultant
- Policy Analyst
- Political Aide
- Human Resource Associate
- Journalist
- Professor
- Immigration Lawyer
- Research Analyst
- Social Worker
Additional Online Resources
Professional Development, Networking, and Advocacy
Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies
Asian Americans Advance Justice
National Association of Asian American Professionals
Young Southeast Asian Leaders Institute
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
Audio Production/Audio Technology
Marketable Skills
Audio Production and Audio Technology majors develop professional skills including:
- Ability to understand, communicate, and achieve audio-design objectives
- An aptitude for utilizing new types of media, editing software, and music/audio industry hardware
- Experience designing products to meet the need and tastes of diverse clientele
- Knowledge of important concepts and skills in physics and computer science (Audio Production)
- Collaborate in groups to achieve common creative and technical goals
- Ability to record and provide audio support at live events
- Experience managing studios and digital audio workstations
- Proficiency in various audio production skills (mix, master and produce)
- Knowledge of best practices, standards, and professional expectations within the audio and music industries
- Ability to troubleshoot complex audio recording setups and systems
Relevant Fields
- Archival Media Management
- Audio Engineering and Editing
- Education
- Event Production
- Music
- News Production
- Radio, Television, and Film
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor's Degree
- Audio Archivist
- Audio Engineer/Technician
- Audio-Visual Systems Designer
- Soud Designer/Mixer
- Teacher (Audio/Music)
- Technical Support Specialist
- Advanced Degree
- Chief Audio Equipment Technician
- Chief Recording Engineer
- Chief Sound Mixer
- Director of Technical Support
- Professor
- Radio Producer
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- Association for Recorded Sound Collections
- Audio Engineering Society
- International Association of Sound and Audiovisual Archives
- Society of American Archivists
- Society for Motion Picture and Television Engineers
- The Recording Academy
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Biochemistry
Marketable Skills
Biochemistry majors develop professional skills including:
- The ability to develop and test original hypotheses through rigorous experimentation
- Knowledge of organisms and their habitats
- Experience gathering and interpreting scientific data
- The ability to cogently express complex scientific and technical information
- The ability to apply scientific knowledge to solve problems
- Experience analyzing objects, fluids, and gases to obtain clinical information, and testing products to see if they meet specifications
Relevant Fields
- Agriculture
- Aquatic/Marine Science
- Biotechnology
- Environmental Science
- Forensic Science
- Medicine
- Research
- Toxicology
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor's Degree
- Bioanalyst
- Clinical Data Processor
- Laboratory Technician
- Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
- Quality Control Technician
- Research Technician
- Advanced Degree
- Chemical Safety Engineer
- Chief Scientist
- Clinical Chemist
- Geneticist
- Geneticist
- Microbiologist
- Pharmaceutical Researcher
- Research Biologist/Chemist
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- American Association for Clinical Chemistry
- American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
- American Society for Cell Biology
- Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology
- National Assocaition for Biology Teachers
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Biology
Marketable Skills
Biology majors develop professional skills including:
- The ability to develop and test original hypotheses through rigorous experimentation
- Knowledge of organisms and their habitats
- Experience gathering and interpreting scientific data
- The ability to cogently express complex scientific and technical information
- Experience using scientific methods and instruments
- Strong critical thinking skills
- An aptitude for applying scientific knowledge to solve problems in agriculture, conservation, forestry, industry, medicine, and other critical areas
Relevant Fields
- Advocacy
- Aquatic/Marine Science
- Biotechnology
- Botany
- Education
- Environmental/Health Journalism
- Environmental Science
- Medical Science
- Research
- Zoology
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor's Degree
- Assistant/Associate Scientist
- Bioanalyst
- Clinical Data Processor
- Environmental Educator
- Marine Conservation Program Manager
- Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
- Research Technician
- Advanced Degree
- Chief Scientist
- Geneticist
- Microbiologist
- Physician
- Public Health Administrator
- Research Biologist
- Veterinarian
Additional Online Resources
- BioXchange
- Biojobnet
- Biology Jobs
- Conservation Job Board
- Frontiers in Bioscience
- Ocean Careers
- Southwest Fisheries Science Center
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
- American Society for Cell Biology
- MarineBio Conservation Society
- National Association for Biology Teachers
- The Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Chemistry
Marketable Skills
Chemistry majors develop professional skills including:
- The ability to understand and communicate complex scientific concepts
- Knowledge of chemical development, analysis, modification, and replication
- Creative approaches to improving industrial processes
- Experience using scientific tools and instruments
- Experience testing products to ensure they meet specifications
- The ability to identify contaminants in food, products, air, and water
- Innovative uses for chemicals and their by-products
- The ability to think critically about chemical applications for issues in industry, agriculture, mining, medicine, and space exploration
Relevant Fields
- Food Chemistry
- Forensics
- Medicine/Pharmacy
- Patent Law
- Product Development
- Public Health
- Textiles
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor's Degree
- Chemist
- Clinical Technician
- Laboratory Technician
- Quality Control Technician
- Technical Sales Representative
- Advanced Degree
- Chemical Safety
- Chemist
- Pharmaceutical Researcher
- Pharmacologist
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- American Association for Clinical Chemistry
- American Chemical Society
- American Chemistry Council
- The Council for Chemical Research
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Computer Science
Marketable Skills
Computer Science majors develop professional skills including:
- The ability to communicate mathematical concepts and data to diverse audiences
- Experience analyzing problems and design technical solutions using computing technology
- Comfort adapting to new and changing technology
- Skills in developing client specific systems for processing data
- Skills in designing and coding computer programs
- Proficiency in multiple programming languages
- Efficient use of computers and software to process large amounts of information, solve problems, and create original content
Relevant Fields
- Computer Operations & Programming
- Computer Science
- Consultancy
- Education
- Information Technology
- Operations Research Analysis
- Security
- Software Design
- System Analysis
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor's Degree
- Computer Programmer
- Systems Analyst
- Teacher
- Web Designer
- Web Developer
- Advanced Degree
- Computer Engineer
- Cybersecurity
- Data Science
- Database Administrator
- Information Technology Architect
- IT Specialist
- Operations Research Analyst
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
- Association for Computing Machinery
- Data Management International
- Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
- The League of Professional System Administrators
- National Center for Women and Information Technology
- National Workforce Center for Emerging Technologies
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Dance
Marketable Skills
Dance majors develop professional skills including:
- Ability to analyze materials and then formulate questions and ideas through critical thinking.
- Management skills related to leadership, teamwork, idea generation, promotion, and audience development.
- Writing and research skills related to communication, dramaturgy, marketing, and self-promotion.
- Awareness and knowledge of the human body including dance technique, anatomy, and somatics.
- Performance and choreographic skills such as processing material quickly, verbal and physical articulation, mind/body connection, and creativity.
- Use of technology including videography, photography and related computer programs like Access, Premier, DSLR, Adobe, Audacity, Pro Tools, Pure Data, and Final Cut.
Relevant Fields
- Arts Management
- Audio Technology
- Choreography
- Communications
- Computer Science
- Curation
- Dance Science
- Dramaturgy
- Education
- Entrepreneurship
- Film/media
- Graphic Design
- Library Science/Archiving
- Management
- Marketing
- Movement Therapy
- Non-profit Management
- Performance
- Philosophy
- Physical Therapy
- Production
- Public History
- Public Relations
- Rehearsal Direction
- Stage Management
- Teaching
Sample Occupational Titles
- Archivist
- Artistic Director
- Choreographer: Concert Dance, Music Video/Commercial, Site Specific, Musical Theatre, etc.
- Communication Coordinator, Social Media Manager
- Community Engagement Coordinator, Outreach Director
- Critic, Journalist
- Curator
- Dance Educator: Higher Ed., K-12, Private Studio, Professional setting
- Development Director, Donor Relations Coordinator, Director of Giving/Philanthropy
- Grants Manager, Grants Writer
- Marketing Director/Coordinator, Graphic Designer
- Movement Therapist
- Operations Manager, Facilities Coordinator
- Performer: Company Setting, Freelancer, Project Based, Commercial Setting,
- Producer
- Programmer
- Researcher: Creative Practice, Dance Science, etc.
- Somatic Practitioner
- Stage Manager, Theatre Technician/Stage Hand
- Teaching Artist
- Tour Coordinator
Online Resources
- Backstage
- Dance/NYC
- Dance/USA
- Fractured Atlas
- National Dance Education Organization
- National Dance Project
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- Dance Research and Education
- Dance Studies Association
- Dance USA
- International Association of Blacks in Dance
- International Association of Dance Medicine and Science
- National Dance Education Organization
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Data Science
Marketable Skills
Data science majors develop professional skills including:
- Strong analytical, logical, and quantitative abilities
- Proficiency with quantitative tools and instruments
- A demonstrated ability to communicate complex concepts
- Strong written, verbal, and graphical communication skills
- Experience at conducting various types of analysis, such as cost/benefit, scenario analysis, resource scarcity, etc.
- Knowledge of how economics can improve policy, trade, and finance
- Experience with advanced statistics, computer models, and data analysis
- Comfort solving complex problems by means of advanced mathematics, logic, and quantitative thinking
- Experience with research design and acquiring, organizing and managing large databases
- Proficiency with tables, charts and graphs, and relevant software
- The ability to analyze masses of numerical data, identify trends, and make calculated forecasts
- Experience predicting the social and financial impacts of proposed legislation
- Use Data Science methods to create ethical, data-driven solutions for real problems in diverse fields
- Integrate specialty domain knowledge with acumen in mathematics, statistics, and computing
- Develop reproducible analyses using modern statistical/programming methods and tools
- Collect, clean, and organize large amounts of data from open data sites, through APIs, via web scraping or from SQL-based database
- Create meaningful visualizations and graphics of quantitative and categorical data
- Apply appropriate statistical methods to build, analyze, test, and validate models of large data sets
- Apply advanced regressions methods for multivariate regression
- Develop machine learning solutions using statistical and quantitative methods
- Build and deploy web-based apps for interactive analysis
- Communicate complex ideas on data and solutions to diverse audiences orally and in writing
- Conduct ethical reviews of data sources and applications to identify potential issues and solutions
- Collaborate as a member of a team to complete projects on time to the desired quality
- Proficient in R, Tidyverse, R Shiny, R Markdown, R Studio, Git, GitHub, Google/Microsoft products, etc.
- Experienced with Python, HTML, CSS, SQL, etc.
Relevant Fields
- Data Science
- Statistics
- Machine Learning
- Artificial Intelligence
- Scientific Research
- Social Science Research
- Big Data Analytics
- Medical Analytics
- Sports Analytics
- Entertainment Analytics
- Policy Analysis
- Communication Analytics
- Government/Public Affairs
- Education
- Health
- Consulting
- Business/Finance/Marketing
- Any field that uses lots of data to make decisions
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Entry-level/junior data scientist
- Data analyst
- Data science engineer
- Data modeler
- Machine learning engineer
- Analyst
- Statistician
- AI engineer
- Business intelligence developer
- Advanced Degree
- Senior-level/associate/experienced data scientist
- Data analyst
- Data science engineer
- Data modeler
- Machine learning engineer
- Analyst
- Statistician
- AI engineer
- Business intelligence developer
Additional Online Resources
- Data Scientist – A Career worth Pursuing?
- Why a Data Science Career is Worth Pursuing
- Wikipedia on Data Science
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- Data Science Association
- American Statistical Association
- Data Mining Section of INFORMS (Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences)
Data Sciences for Justice, Law, & Criminology
See below under School of Public Affairs
Data Sciences for Political Science
See below under the School of Public Affairs
Economics
Marketable Skills
Economics majors develop professional skills including:
- Strong analytical, logical, and quantitative abilities
- Proficiency with quantitative tools and instruments
- A demonstrated ability to communicate complex concepts
- Strong written, verbal, and graphical communication skills
- Experience at conducting various types of analysis, such as cost/benefit, scenario analysis, resource scarcity, etc.
- Knowledge of how economics can improve policy, trade, and finance
- Experience with advanced statistics, computer models, and data analysis
- Comfort solving complex problems by means of advanced mathematics, logic, and quantitative thinking
- Experience with research design and acquiring, organizing and managing large databases
- Proficiency with tables, charts and graphs, and relevant software
- The ability to analyze masses of numerical data, identify trends, and make calculated forecasts
- Experience predicting the social and financial impacts of proposed legislation
Relevant Fields
- Academia
- Banking/Finance
- Business Administration
- Capital Market Analysis
- Economic Research
- Education
- International/Nonprofit Organizations
- Public Policy
- Statistical Analysis
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor's Degree
- Actuary/Broker
- Aid/Development Worker
- Business/Risk Manager
- Junior Economist
- Market/Financial Analyst
- Market Researcher
- Advanced Degree
- Consultant
- Import-Export Specialist
- Political Scientist
- Professor
- Senior Economist
- Statistical Analyst
Additional Online Resources
- American Council for Energy-Efficient Economy
- Council for Economic Education
- Devex
- Social Science Research Network
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- The American Economic Association
- American Law and Economics Association
- American Mathematical Society
- Association for Women in Mathematics
- Economics Jobs
- International Economic Association
- National Economic Association
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Environmental Science/Studies
Marketable Skills
Environmental Science/Studies majors develop professional skills including:
- Knowledge of current trends and policy in environmental science
- Comfort communicating scientific concepts and concerns to a diverse audience
- The ability to analyze and collect data
- Strong quantitative and analytical reasoning skills
Relevant Fields
- Advocacy
- Biological/Ecological Science
- Conservation
- Consulting
- Education
- Environmental/Public Policy
- Government
- Community Development
- Journalism
- Nonprofit Management
- Research and Data Analysis
- Resource Management
- International Development
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor's Degree
- Community Relations Specialist
- Environmental Reporter
- Lobbyist
- Natural Area Manager
- Park Ranger
- Program Coordinator
- Research Assistant or Analyst
- Teacher
- Advanced Degree
- Attorney
- Engineer
- Legislative Advocate
- Professor
- Program Director
- Research Scientist
- Scientist
- Senior Policy Analyst
- Sustainability Manager
Additional Online Resources
- Cyber-Sierra’s Natural Resources Job Search
- Dice
- ECO: Environmental Career Opportunities
- Environmental Career Center
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- Association for Environmental Studies and Sciences
- National Association of Environmental Professionals
- North American Association for Environmental Education
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Foreign Language & Communication Media
See below under School of Communication
French Studies
French Studies
Marketable Skills
- Oral/Written Communication
- French Language Proficiency
- Translation
- Interpretation
- Cultural Competency
- Critical Thinking/ Research
- Problem Solving
- Editing and Proofreading
- Teamwork
Relevant Fields
- French Language Education
- International Education
- Nonprofit
- Translation and Interpretation
- Journalism/Media
- Research
- Business
- Travel, Tourism, and Hospitality
- International Law
- National Security
- Healthcare & Science
- International Development
- Diplomacy
- Journalism
- Travel, Tourism, and Hospitality
- Climate
- Environment
- Migration
- French Teacher/Professor
- French Translator
- French Interpreter
- Editor/Proofreader
- Research Assistant
- Program Analyst (DOJ, DOS, NGOs)
- Diplomat
- ESL Teacher
- Journalist/Correspondent
- International Marketing Analyst
- Travel Guide/Agent
- Immigration Lawyer
- Paralegal
- Bilingual Mental Health Case Manager
- Bilingual Community Outreach Coordinator
- Bilingual Sales Rep
- Bilingual Project Coordinator
- Peace Corps Volunteer
10 Best Scholarships for French Majors |
Campusfrance.org - Grants, Scholarships, Fellowships |
The Association for the Study of Modern and Contemporary France |
Graphic Design
Marketable Skills
Graphic Design majors develop professional skills including:
- Strong creative thinking, critical discerning, and problem solving skills
- The ability to design visual communications to meet the needs of diverse clients and audiences
- Proficiency in professional software for digital imaging and design for print and digital media
- Strong visual and written communication skills
- The ability to communicate information, themes, and concepts through design
- Strong project management skills
- Experience transforming rough sketches, data, or verbal instructions into design work
Relevant Fields
- Advertising
- App Design
- Art & Creative direction
- Branding
- Digital & Print Publishing
- Education
- Environmental Graphics
- Exhibition Design
- Game Design
- Graphic Design
- Information Visualization
- Marketing Communications
- Motion Graphics(Web, TV, Film, etc)
- Public Relations
- Social/Political communications
- User Experience Design
- Visual Communications
- Web & Mobile Design
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Art/Creative Director
- Graphic Designer
- Illustrator
- Information Designer
- Motion Graphics Designer
- User Experience (UX) Designer
- Visual Communications Specialist
- Web Designer
- Advanced Degree
- All the previous ones
- Design Director
- Design Educator
- Professor
Additional Online Resources
- Advertising Age
- AIGA
- DC Advertising Club
- Graphic Design USA
- Job listings
- Jobster
- Motion Graphics blog
- Print Magazine
- Smashing Magazine
- The Art Directors Club
- The Creative Hotlist
- The Society of Publication Designers
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Health Promotion
Marketable Skills
Health Promotion majors develop professional skills including:
- The ability to develop and implement strategies and programs for improving habits, attitudes, and behaviors related to individual and community health
- Experience in gathering and interpreting data
- Skills in developing audio, visual, and print materials on health-related topics
- The ability to think critically about complex issues in health, communication, and community outreach
- Comfort in cogently expressing complex health and medical information
- Experience conducting pre- and post-program surveys and evaluating health education programs
- Familiarity with providing screening services for individuals and performing follow-up evaluations
- Skills in managing programs and personnel of health education and wellness programs
Relevant Fields
- Advocacy
- Communications
- Community Outreach
- Corporate Health & Wellness
- Education
- Health Journalism
- Nonprofit Management
- Research
- Sports Medicine
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Communications Representative
- Community Outreach Coordinator
- Health Educator
- Worksite Wellness Coordinator
- Researcher
- Advanced Degree
- Program Director
- Public Health Administrator
- Research Coordinator
- School Health Education Director
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- Aerobics and Fitness Association of America
- American Alliance for Health Physical Education Recreation and Dance
- American College Health Association
- American Public Health Association
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
History
Marketable Skills
History majors develop professional skills including:
- An understanding of a broad range of social, geographical, and cultural issues
- Strong writing skills and experience adapting content for different audiences
- The ability to locate and use primary sources in research
- The ability to apply historical lessons to current policy, social movements, and business trends
- Knowledge of historical origins of issues, problems, and trends
- Experience locating, collecting, evaluating, and organizing data and documents
- Critical thinking and creative problem solving skills
- Selecting, preserving, and making historically valuable artifacts and records available for use
Relevant Fields
- Advocacy
- Archiving
- Communications
- Community/Social Services
- Cultural/Historic Preservation
- Education
- Government
- Historical Societies
- Journalism
- Law
- Museum Administration
- Nonprofit Management
- Records Management
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Archivist
- Curator
- Historical Researcher
- Journalist
- Nonprofit Manager
- Teacher
- Advanced Degree
- Biographer
- Consultant
- Foreign Correspondent/Editor
- Information Manager
- Professor
- Research Analyst
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- American Association for State and Local History
- American Historical Association
- National Council for History Education
- National Council on Public History
- The Organization of American Historians
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Jewish Studies
Marketable Skills
Jewish Studies majors develop professional skills including:
- Understanding a broad range of social issues
- Critical thinking about important issues
- Strong writing skills and experience in adapting content for different audiences
- Experience presenting ideas to large and small groups
- An aptitude for analyzing society in terms of religion, ethnicity, and class
- A solid grasp on central historical and sociological issues
Relevant Fields
- Advocacy
- Education
- Law
- Lobbying
- Nonprofit Management
- Policy Development/Analysis
- Religious Life
- Scholarly Research
- Social Services
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Intelligence Officer
- Policy Specialist
- Program Coordinator
- Research Assistant/Analyst
- Social Worker
- Translator/Interpreter
- Advanced Degree
- Archivist
- Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer
- Foreign Consultant
- Historian
- Nonprofit Manager
- Professor
- Rabbi
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- American Jewish Historical Society
- American Jewish Press Association
- Association for Jewish Studies
- National Council of Jewish Women
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Language & Area Studies: French/Europe
Language & Area Studies: French/Europe
Marketable Skills
- French Language Proficiency
- European Cultural Competency
- Oral/Written Communication
- Critical Thinking/Research
- Problem Solving
- Teamwork
- Translation
- Interpretation
- Editing and Proofreading
Relevant Fields
- Translation/Interpretation
- Diplomacy
- Government/Policy
- Regional expertise
- Business/Management
- Translation Services
- Journalism
- Travel, Tourism, and Hospitality
- International Law
- Education
- Nonprofit
- Research
- History
- Environment
- Climate
- Migration
Sample Occupational Titles
- French Teacher/Professor
- Diplomat
- Policy Analyst
- Program Analyst (DOJ, DOS, NGOs)
- Regional Specialist
- Translator/Interpreter
- Journalist/Correspondent
- Research Assistant
- International Lawyer
- International Sales Rep
- Travel Guide/Agent
- Tour Guide
- Historical Site Guide
- Historian
- Museum Curator
The Association for the Study of Modern and Contemporary France |
Language & Area Studies: Spanish/Latin America
Language & Area Studies: Spanish/Latin America
Marketable Skills
- Oral/Written Communication
- Spanish Language Proficiency
- Interpretation
- Translation
- Research/Literary Analysis
- Critical Thinking
- Problem Solving
- Teamwork
- Editing and Proofreading
- Latin American Cultural Competency
Relevant Fields
- Translation/Interpretation
- Journalism
- Diplomacy
- Business/Management
- Education
- International Development
- Regional expertise
- Research
- Nonprofit
- Travel, Tourism, and Hospitality
- History
Sample Occupational Titles
- Translator/Interpreter
- Journalist/Correspondent
- Diplomat
- Bilingual Sales Rep
- Bilingual Project Coordination
- Spanish Teacher
- Professor
- Regional Specialist
- Tour Guide
- Historical Site Guide
- Historian
- Museum Curator
Literature
Marketable Skills
Literature majors develop professional skills including:
- Knowledge of a broad range of literary genres and authors
- Strong critical thinking and problem solving skills
- Strong writing, editing, and oral presentation skills
- Experience adapting content for diverse audiences
- The ability to develop hypotheses, summarize ideas, compare interpretations, and present alternative view points
Relevant Skills
- Business/Marketing
- Communications
- Education
- Government
- Journalism
- Nonprofit Management
- Public Relations
- Publishing/Media
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Copywriter
- Literacy Coach
- Reporter/Writer
- Teacher
- Technical Writer
- Website Content Manager
- Advanced Degree
- Editor
- Information Architect
- Product Planner
- Professor
- Software Documentation Writer
- Workplace Technical Communicator
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- Investigative Reporters & Editors
- National Newspaper Publishers Association
- National Writers Union
- Association of Publishers for Special Sales
- The Association of Magazine Media
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Mathematics/Applied Mathematics/Statistics
Marketable Skills
Mathematics and Statistics majors develop professional skills including:
- The ability to understand and communicate complex concepts
- Creative approaches to how mathematics can improve industrial/technological processes
- The ability to solve complex problems by means of advanced mathematics, logic, and scientific thinking
- Experience with advanced statistics and risk analysis
- An aptitude for analyzing numerical data, identifying trends, and making calculated forecasts
- The ability to use and interpret tables, charts, and graphs
- Research design experience
Relevant Fields
- Actuarial Science
- Business/Finance
- Computer Science
- Cryptography
- Education
- Engineering
- Operations Research Analysis
- Statistics
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Actuary
- Computer Programmer
- Financial Analyst
- Market Analyst
- Research Analyst
- Retail Buyer
- Advanced Degree
- Applied Mathematician
- Economist
- Mathematical Researcher
- Operations Researcher
- Professor
- Statistical Analyst
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- American Mathematical Society
- Association for Women in Mathematics
- Mathematical Association of America
- National Council of Teachers of Mathematics
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Music
See Performing Arts: Music, Musical Theatre, & Theatre.
Neuroscience
Marketable Skills
Neuroscience majors develop professional skills including:
- An understanding of the neural basis for diseases, trauma, and behavior
- Knowledge of the molecules, cells, and circuits underlying sensation, cognition, and action
- The ability to develop and test original hypotheses through rigorous experimentation.
- Strong critical thinking skills
- The ability to cogently express complex scientific and technical information.
- Experience in utilizing laboratory equipment, techniques, and technology
- Basic computer science and coding skills
Relevant Fields
- Optometry
- Medicine
- Neuropsychology
- Secondary Education
- Academic Research
- Academic Administration
- Science Writing
- Science Advocacy
- Pharmaceutical Research
- Program Management w/in Government & Foundations
- Public Health
- Psychiatry
- Computer Science
- Gaming
- Artificial Intelligence
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Research Technician
- Medical Technician
- Pharmaceutical Company Representative
- Neurodegeneration Research Scientist
- Laboratory Technician
- Advanced Degree
- Cognitive Neuroscientist
- Neurosurgeon
- Neuropsychologist
- Psychiatrist
- Neuroimaging Technician
- Neural Engineer
Additional Online Resources
- Nature Neuroscience
- Journal of Neuroscience
- Neuroscience Journal
- The Guardian Neuroscience Articles
- Psychology Today, Neuroscience
- Neuroscience News
- The Dana Foundation
- The Allen Institute for Brain Science
- The Kavli Foundation
- BRAIN Initiative
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- Society for Neuroscience
- American Psychological Association
- American Academy of Neurology
- National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists
- Inova Neuroscience Research Program
- International Neuroethics Society
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Performing Arts: Music, Musical Theatre & Theatre
Marketable Skills
Performing Arts majors develop professional skills including:
- A proven ability to think critically about art, culture, history, and aesthetics
- Ability to write, perform, and direct theater productions, dance routines, and music programs
- Creative thinking and artistic approaches towards performance
- An aptitude for communicating themes and concepts through performance
- Comfortable adapting techniques, tools, and materials to different creative processes, budgets, and final uses
- The ability to design performances to meet the needs and tastes of diverse clients and audiences
- Experience criticizing, evaluating, and explaining works of performance art
- The ability to memorize and follow detailed instructions and respond to cues
- Design costumes, settings, properties, and other effects
Relevant Fields
- Advertising/Marketing
- Art Administration/
- Management
- Art Criticism
- Art Education
- Dance/Theater/Music Instructor
- Event Planning/Booking music groups
- Fashion
- Museum/Gallery Installations
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Actor
- Costume/Fashion Designer
- Dancer
- Teacher
- Television/Film Production Assistant
- Theatre Technician/Craftsperson
- Musician
- Advanced Degree
- Art Critic
- Art/Music Journalist
- Arts Program Director
- Curator
- Music Therapist
- Scenic Designer
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- Association of Performing Arts Presenters
- College Art Association
- International Society for the Performing Arts
- Washington Performing Arts Society
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Philosophy
Marketable Skills
Philosophy majors develop professional skills including:
- Knowledge of major and influential ideas in human history
- An understanding of theory and criticism and the ability to compare approaches
- The ability to write and speak persuasively
- Logical reasoning skills
- Strong writing and editing skills
- Experience adapting content for diverse audiences
Relevant Fields
- Communications
- Education
- Government
- Journalism
- Literary/Film Criticism
- Nonprofit Management
- Public Relations
- Media
- Theology
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Cultural Advisor
- Nonprofit Manager
- Philosophical Counselor
- Reporter/Writer
- Research Assistant/Analyst
- Teacher
- Advanced Degree
- Attorney
- Editor
- Ethics Lecturer
- Historian
- Judge
- Professor
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- American Philosophical Association
- National Writers Union
- Society for Phenomenology and Existential Philosophy
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executive.
Photography
Marketable Skills
Photography majors develop professional skills including:
- Develop, design, or create new artistic contributions, ideas, relationships, or products
- Ability to encourage and build mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members
- Monitor and control resources, maintain files and oversee productions or projects
- Develop long-range needs and specify the strategies and actions to achieve them
- Ability to confer with clients, leaders and colleagues both orally and written
Relevant Fields
- Academia
- Advertising
- Arts
- Entertainment
- Government
- Media
- Nonprofit
- Publishing
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Advertising
- Film & Video Editors
- Graphic Designer
- Journalist/Video Journalist
- Multimedia Designer/Specialist
- News Photographer
- Photographer/News Photographer
- Gallery/ Museum assistant
Non-profit arts organization - Advanced Degree
- Art Director
- Entertainment Producer
- Media Programming
- Museum Curator
- Public Relations Specialist
- Special Effects
- Visuals Editor
Additional Online Resources
Entertainment Careers
Jobs2Careers
Journalism Jobs
Media Bistro
Upwork
Google Job Search
Art Search Job Board
Art Jobs
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
American Photographic Artists
American Society of Media Photographers
American Society of Photographers
National Press Photographers Association
North American Nature Photography Association
Professional Photographers of America
Society of Professional Journalists
Women Photojournalist of Washington
Find more professional associations from American Society of Association Executives.
Physics
Marketable Skills
Physics majors develop professional skills including:
- Proficiency with scientific tools and instruments for measurements of physical phenomena and development of new technology
- Proficiency with computational tools and software for simulation, modelling and data processing
- Experience working with diverse quantitative methods, including formal, numerical, and graphical techniques
- A demonstrated ability to think critically about applications physics in adjacent fields like business, industry, medicine, science policy and space development
- The ability to understand and communicate complex scientific concepts
- Research experience with theoretical, computational or experimental research methods
- The ability to apply physical and mathematical principles to improve decision and design processes
Relevant Fields
- Education
- Engineering
- Environmental Sciences
- Data Science
- Government
- Industrial Applications
- Nuclear Medicine
- Patent Law
- Product Research & Development
- Technical Consulting
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Clinical/Laboratory Technician
- Computer Systems Engineer
- Patent Examiner
- Technical Sales Representative
- Technical Writer
- Test Engineer
- Advanced Degree
- Aero Dynamist
- Astronomer
- Astrophysicist
- Medical Physicist
- Operational Researcher
- Physicist
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- American Association of Physics Teachers Career Center
- American Institute of Physics
- American Physical Society
- Institute of Physics
- Society of Physics Students
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Psychology
Marketable Skills
Psychology majors develop professional skills including:
- A proven ability to think critically about important social and psychological issues
- Insight into group dynamics and diversity
- Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills
- Experience researching, analyzing, and designing original studies
- The ability to apply psychological knowledge to counseling, intervention, and mediation
- Familiarity with psychological tests and surveys and the ability to interpret results
- Experience using computers to analyze statistical data and assist in laboratory/field research
Relevant Fields
- Behavioral Sciences
- Research
- Education
- Forensic Psychology
- Health Studies
- Human Resources
- Intelligence
- Marketing
- Neuroscience
- Social Work
- Training & Professional Development
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Child Care Provider
- College Admissions Counselor
- Probation Officer
- Research Assistant
- Residential Youth Counselor
- Social Services Caseworker
- Advanced Degree
- Advertising Executive
- Criminologist
- Psychologist/Psychiatrist
- Public Relations Director
- School Counselor
- Social Worker
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- American Psychological Association
- American Counseling Association
- Association for Psychological Science
- Eastern Psychological Association
- National Association of School Psychologists
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Public Health
Marketable Skills
Public Health majors develop professional skills including:
- Developing and implementing strategies, programs, and policy for protecting and promoting the health of communities and populations
- Gathering and interpreting quantitative and qualitative data
- Assessing the effectiveness of health programs and services, and providing recommendations for improvement
- Thinking critically about complex issues in public health and communicating information, insights, and advice to various populations
- Leadership skills and collaborative working experience
- Comfort in cogently expressing complex health and medical information
Relevant Fields
- Advocacy
- Community Outreach
- Corporate Health and Wellness
- Education
- Epidemiology
- Government
- Health Journalism
- Nonprofit Management
- Reproductive Health
- Research
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Communications Specialist
- Community Outreach Coordinator
- Health Educator
- Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
- Researcher Analyst or Associate
- Certifies Health Education Specialist
- Policy Analyst
- Advanced Degree
- Epidemiology
- Laboratory Director
- Policy Advisor
- Public Health Administrator
- Research Coordinator
- School Health Education Director
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- American College Health Association
- American Public Health Association
- Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health
- Society of Public Health Education
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Religious Studies
Marketable Skills
Religious Studies majors develop professional skills including:
- The ability to analyze and discuss relevant historical and sociological issues
- Knowledge of historically prominent ideas and leaders in world religions and philosophy
- The ability to write and speak persuasively
- Strong writing and editing skills
- Experience adapting content for diverse audiences
Relevant Fields
- Advocacy
- Community/Social Services
- Education
- Ethnography
- Lobbying
- Nonprofit Management
- Policy Development/Analysis
- Public Relations
- Publishing/Media
- Research
- Theology
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Community Organizer
- Cultural Advisor
- Nonprofit Manager
- Philosophical/Spiritual Counselor
- Research Assistant/Analyst
- Teacher
- Advanced Degree
- Biblical Scholar
- Editor
- Ethics Lecturer
- Geopolitical Consultant
- Historian
- Pastor/Priest/Rabbi
- Professor
- Social Worker
Additional Online Resources
- Christian Jobs
- Clearinghouse for Jewish Communal Job
- Jewish Federation of Greater Washington
- The Write Jobs
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- American Academy of Religion
- American Catholic Philosophical Association
- The American Philosophical Association
- Jewish Women's Archive
- Religious Research Association
- Society for Phenomenology and Existential Philosophy
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Sociology
Marketable Skills
Sociology majors develop professional skills including:
Analytical Skills
- Reading and thinking critically about important social issues
- Evaluating ideas, theories, and evidence
- Reasoning logically
- Understanding components of complex problems
- Analyzing patterns of organization in business, industrial firms, or institutions
Communication Skills
- Strong written and oral communication skills
- Conveying complex information and ideas
- Articulating/defending a position
- Presenting alternative explanations
- Summarizing
- Preparing reports
- Public speaking
Interpersonal & Cross-Cultural Communication Skills
- Working in teams/motivating groups
- Representing/negotiating with others
- Understanding privilege, prejudice, and discrimination
- Providing insight:
- into approaches used in public relations, marketing, or politics for targeting diverse populations
- into group dynamics and how to deal effectively with groups from diverse backgrounds
- into how emotions, events, and problems are dealt with among various social groups
- into human relationships for counseling, intervention, and mediation
Social Research Skills
- Planning/designing research projects
- Gathering/interpreting quantitative/qualitative data
- Utilizing different data collection techniques
- Working with human research subjects
- Translating theory into action
- Utilizing software to analyze data
Relevant Fields
Sociology students often have minors or double majors in:
- Anthropology
- Criminology
- Education
- Human Resources
- International Relations
- Law
- Marketing
- Politics & Government
- Psychology
- Public Health
- Public Policy & Administration
- Social Work
- Statistics
- Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Account Representative
- Behavioral Scientist
- Caseworker
- Community Organizer
- Editor/Writer (all media)
- Human Resources
- Intelligence Analyst
- Journalist
- K-12 Teacher
- Law Enforcement Officer
- Lobbyist
- Manager/Analyst
- Marketing Manager/Researcher
- Policy/Legislative Analyst
- Public Opinion Researcher
- Probation/Parole Officer
- Program Manager/Administrator
- Quantitative Analyst
- Social Research Assistant/Associate
- Special Agent/Investigator
- Student Affairs/Admissions
- Training Coordinator
- Volunteer Coordinator
- Advanced Degree
- Applied Sociologist/Criminologist
- Clinical Sociologist
- College Professor
- Demographer
- Epidemiologist
- Lawyer
- Marriage/Family Therapist
- Medical Doctor/Nurse Practitioner
- Psychologist/Forensic Psychologist
- Rehabilitation Counselor
- Social Worker
- Survey Statistician
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- American Sociological Association
- Association for Applied and Clinical Sociology
- District of Columbia Sociological Society
- Society for Women in Sociology
- The Association of Black Sociologists
- The International Sociological Association
- The Society for the Study of Social Problems
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executive.
Spanish Studies
Spanish Studies
Marketable Skills
- Oral/Written Communication
- Spanish Language Proficiency
- Translation
- Interpretation
- Cultural Competency
- Critical Thinking
- Editing and Proofreading
- Problem Solving
- Teamwork
Relevant Fields
- Spanish Language Education
- International Education
- Nonprofit
- Translation and Interpretation
- Research
- Business
- National Security
- Healthcare & Science
- International Development
- Diplomacy
- Journalism
- Travel, Tourism, and Hospitality
Sample Occupational Titles
- Spanish Teacher
- Spanish Interpreter
- Spanish Translator
- Editor/Proofreader
- Research Assistant
- Bilingual Mental Health Case Manager
- Bilingual Community Outreach Coordinator
- Bilingual Sales Rep
- Bilingual Project Coordinator
- Diplomat
- Journalist/Correspondent
- ESL teacher
- Tour Guide
- Museum Educator Intern
Studio Art
Marketable Skills
Studio Art majors develop professional skills including:
- Strong critical thinking skills
- Graphic design and marketing skills
- Experience transforming rough sketches, data, and verbal instructions into works of art
- The ability to adapt techniques, tools, and materials to different creative processes, budgets, and final uses
- Experience designing products to meet the needs and tastes of diverse clients and audiences
- The ability to employ various artistic techniques, such as painting, drawing, lettering, engraving, weaving, photography, sculpting, modeling, welding, casting, and carving
- Creative use of texture, contrast, and color combinations for visual impact
- Comfort reviewing, evaluating, and explaining works of art
Relevant Fields
- Advertising
- Art Administration/Management
- Art Criticism
- Art Education
- Commercial/Interior Design
- Curatorial Services
- Fashion
- Multimedia Production
- Museum/Gallery Installation
- Publishing
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Costume/Fashion Designer
- Graphic Artist
- Illustrator/Painter
- Photographer
- Sculptor
- Teacher
- Advanced Degree
- Art Critic
- Curator
- Education Director
- Interior Designer
- Program Director
- Web Designer
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- American Association of Museums
- Art Museum Network
- College Art Association
- Visual Resources Association
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Theatre
See Performing Arts: Music, Musical Theatre, & Theatre.
Women's, Gender, & Sexuality Studies
Marketable Skills
Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies majors develop professional skills including:
- Experience researching, analyzing, and designing original studies in the social sciences
- Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills
- The ability to locate and use primary sources in research
- Insight into group dynamics and how to deal effectively with diversity
- Knowledge of relevant historical and sociological issues
- The ability to adapt approaches in public relations, marketing, and politics to target diverse populations
- Experience applying social and historical lessons to current policy, social movements, and business trends
- Strong analytical reasoning skills
Relevant Fields
- Advocacy
- Behavioral Sciences
- Communications
- Education
- Human Resources
- Law
- Marketing
- Nonprofit Management
- Policy
- Social Research & Data Analysis
- Social Work
- Training & Professional Development
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Campaign Worker
- Family Services Specialist
- Public Relations Advisor
- Recreation/Occupational Therapist
- Research Assistant/Analyst
- Social Services Intake Counselor
- Advanced Degree
- Applied Sociologist
- Marriage/Family Therapist
- Public Relations Director
- Research Anthropologist
- School Counselor
- Social Worker
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- American Sociological Association
- Association for Applied and Clinical Sociology
- Association for Gender Research, Education, Academia & Action
- The Kinsey Institute
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Kogod School of Business
To explore majors within the Kogod School of Business, visit their Office of Career Engagement.
School of Communication
Communication
Marketable Skills
Communication studies majors develop professional skills including:
- Leadership skills in communication and media industries
- Planning, executing, and presenting research related to media and communication
- Strong writing skills and experience adapting content for different audiences
- Expertise in law and policy related to media and communication
- Experience facilitating conversations and presenting in front of groups
- Creative approaches to using media to influence, persuade, inform, and entertain
- The ability to locate, research, analyze, and synthesize complex information
- Critical and structural analysis of social and technological processes
Relevant Fields
- Academia
- Advocacy
- Government & Policy Marketing & Public Relations
- Market Research
- Media & Entertainment Industries
- Nonprofit Management
- Political Campaign Management
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor's Degree
- Account Coordinator
- Community Relations Coordinator
- Editorial Assistant
- Events Coordinator
- Marketing Assistant
- Promotions Assistant
- Reporter/Journalist
- Research Associate
- Social Media Coordinator/Specialist
- Advanced Degree
- Brand Manager
- Corporate Communications Manager
- Market Researcher
- Media/Communications Scholar
- Media Planner/Buyer
- Policy Analyst
- Press Agent
- Public Affairs Director
- Research Analyst
- Sales & Marketing Manager
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- American Advertising Federation
- International Communications Association
- Institute for Global Communication
- National Communication Association
- Public Relations Society of America
- Society for Technical Communication
- Women in Communication
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Film & Media Arts
Marketable Skills
Film and Media Arts majors develop professional skills including:
- The ability to write, direct, edit, and produce film
- Strong critical thinking skills
- Experience producing media content for different audiences/clients
- Creative approaches to using media to influence, persuade, inform, and entertain
- Experience with film and design software
- Comfort working individually and as a member of a team
- Experience recording, non-linear editing, lighting, audio mixing, image correction, visual effects, etc.
- The ability to locate, research, analyze, and synthesize complex information
Relevant Fields
- Advertising
- Advocacy
- Education
- Graphic Design
- Media
- Nonprofit Management
- Public Relations
- Publishing
- Web Design
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Documentary/Narrative Filmmaker
- Editorial Assistant (Photo/Film)
- Marketing Assistant
- Production Assistant
- Public Relations Assistant
- Social Media Coordinator/Specialist
- Videographer
- Advanced Degree
- Corporate Communications Manager
- Marketing Development Director
- Media Analyst
- Media Planner/Buyer
- Press Agent
- Producer
- Professor
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- American Advertising Federation
- Docs in Progress
- Television, Internet, and Video Association of DC
- Women in Film and Video
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Foreign Language & Communication Media
Marketable Skills
Foreign Language and Communication Media majors develop professional skills including:
- Knowledge of the media, culture, and sociolinguistics of a region or ethnic community
- Familiarity with best practices in language translation/interpretation
- Experience measuring the media’s effect on society
- Strong writing, editing, and public speaking skills in multiple languages
- Strong critical thinking skills
- Experience adapting content for different audiences
- The ability to use media to influence, persuade, inform, and entertain
- Experience facilitating conversations and presenting in front of groups
- Comfort working individually and as a member of a multicultural/multilingual team
- The ability to locate, research, analyze, and synthesize complex information in multiple languages
Relevant Fields
- Academia
- Advertising
- Advocacy
- Government
- Diplomacy/Foreign Service
- International Education
- Media
- Newspaper/Magazines
- Nonprofit Management
- Political Campaign Management
- Public Relations
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor's Degree
- Community Relations Assistant
- Foreign Service Officer/Correspondent
- Marketing Assistant
- Media Analyst
- Teacher
- Translator/Interpreter
- Advanced Degree
- Bilingual Social Worker
- Corporate Communications Manager
- Marketing Development Director
- Market Researcher
- Press Agent
- Public Affairs Director
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- American Translators Association
- Public Relations Society of America
- The Association for Women in Communications
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Journalism
Marketable Skills
Journalism majors develop professional skills including:
- Strong critical thinking skills
- The ability to locate, research, analyze, and synthesize complex information
- Strong writing, reporting, and editing skills
- Strong analytical reasoning and objective reporting skills
- Experience adapting content for different audiences
- Comfort working individually and as a member of a team
- The ability to apply historical lessons to current policy, social movements, and business trends
- The ability to forecast shifts in public opinion
Relevant Fields
- Academia
- Advertising
- Advocacy
- Government
- Lobbying
- Media
- Nonprofit Management
- Politics
- Public Relations
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Foreign Correspondent
- Media Analyst
- Media Production Assistant
- Photojournalist
- Public Relations Assistant
- Reporter
- Advanced Degree
- Author
- Corporate Communications Manager
- Investigative Reporter
- News Managing Editor
- Producer
- Public Affairs Director
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- The American Society of Journalists and Authors
- American Society of Newspaper Editors
- National Association of Black Journalists
- National Association of Hispanic Journalists
- Online News Association
- Radio Television Digital News Association
- Women in Communications
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Photography
Marketable Skills
Photography majors develop professional skills including:
- Develop, design, or create new artistic contributions, ideas, relationships, or products
- Ability to encourage and build mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members
- Monitor and control resources, maintain files and oversee productions or projects
- Develop long-range needs and specify the strategies and actions to achieve them
- Ability to confer with clients, leaders and colleagues both orally and written
Relevant Fields
- Academia
- Advertising
- Arts
- Entertainment
- Government
- Media
- Nonprofit
- Publishing
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Advertising
- Film & Video Editors
- Graphic Designer
- Journalist/Video Journalist
- Multimedia Designer/Specialist
- News Photographer
- Photographer/News Photographer
- Gallery/ Museum assistant
Non-profit arts organization - Advanced Degree
- Art Director
- Entertainment Producer
- Media Programming
- Museum Curator
- Public Relations Specialist
- Special Effects
- Visuals Editor
Additional Online Resources
Entertainment Careers
Jobs2Careers
Journalism Jobs
Media Bistro
Upwork
Google Job Search
Art Search Job Board
Art Jobs
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
American Photographic Artists
American Society of Media Photographers
American Society of Photographers
National Press Photographers Association
North American Nature Photography Association
Professional Photographers of America
Society of Professional Journalists
Women Photojournalist of Washington
Find more professional associations from American Society of Association Executives.
Public Relations & Strategic Communication
Marketable Skills
Public Communication majors develop professional skills including:
- Strong critical thinking skills
- The ability to build and maintain positive relationships with the public
- Familiarity with best practices in community, consumer, industry, government, and media relations
- Strong writing skills and experience adapting content for different audiences
- Experience facilitating conversations and presenting in front of groups
- Creative approaches to using media to influence, persuade, and inform
- Comfort working individually and as a member of a team
- Experience locating, researching, analyzing, and synthesizing complex information
- The ability to handle high-level decision-making, problem-solving, and research
- An aptitude for working in environments with tight deadlines and demanding schedules
Relevant Fields
- Advertising
- Advocacy
- Government
- Lobbying
- Media
- Nonprofit Management
- Political Campaign Management
- Private Industry/Business
- Public Relations
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Account Coordinator
- Brand Management Strategist
- Community Relations Assistant
- Grant Writer/Fundraiser
- Marketing Assistant
- Market Researcher
- Public Relations Assistant
- Advanced Degree
- Corporate Communications Manager
- Corporate Spokesperson
- Director of Media Relations
- Lobbyist
- Market Researcher
- Marketing Development Director
- Public Affairs Director
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- Council of Public Relations Firms
- Institute for Global Communications
- Public Relations Society of America
- Women in Communications
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
School of Education
Education: Teaching
Marketable Skills
Education and Teaching majors develop professional skills including:
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Experience adapting content and facilitating conversations for a variety of audiences
- Strong leadership skills
- Experience planning and organizing academic and extracurricular courses and activities
- Strong critical thinking skills
- Experience maintaiThe ability to anticipate, prevent, and resolve disputes, and inefficiencies
-
Experience selecting and effectively using textual, interactive, audiovisual, and other educational materials
-
The ability to assess individual and programmatic success
-
Technical expertise
-
Anti-racist pedagogy/expertise
Relevant Fields
- Advocacy
- Education
- Government
- Health
- Libraries
- Nonprofit Management
- Publishing
- Social Services
- Youth Services
-
Policy
-
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Sample Occupational titles
- Bachelor's Degree
- Adult Education Teacher
- Child Care Provider
- Educational Materials Sales Representative
- Educational Researcher
- Special Education Teacher
- Training Specialist
-
Elementary School Teacher
-
Public Policy Analyst
-
Add: Anti-Racist Educator
-
Add: Children’s Museum Coordinator
- Advanced Degree
- Curriculum Specialist
- Education Management Specialist
- School Counselor/Guidance Counselor
- Speech Pathologist
- Student Personnel Administrator
- Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
School of International Service
International Studies
In addition to the information below, current AU students can visit the SIS Career Resources Library in Handshake for more information.
Marketable Skills
International Studies majors develop professional skills including:
- A firm grounding in the breadth of the international affairs field
- Knowledge of a broad range of regions, social, political, and economic issues, and global trends
- Strong writing skills with the ability to adapt content for different audiences
- Experience researching, analyzing, and presenting information
- Proficiency with various research methods and software tools
- The ability to provide insightful policy analysis
-
Comfort participating in cross-cultural communication
Relevant Fields
- Advocacy
- Business Strategy & Consulting
- Conflict Resolution & Peacebuilding
- Democracy & Political Freedom
- Development & Relief
- Energy and Environmental Sustainability
- Foreign Policy & Public Diplomacy
-
Government
-
International Development
- Lobbying
- Multilateral Organizations
- Research (Academia & Think Tanks)
- Science & Technology
- Security & Intelligence
- Social Impact
- Strategic Communication
- Trade Policy
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Development Assistant
- Intelligence Analyst
- Junior Analyst
- Project/Program Coordinator
- Research Assistant
Additional Online Resources
- Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs Career Guide
- Devex's Next Generation Professional Report
- Foreign Service Suggested Reading
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- Alliance for Peacebuilding
- American Evaluation Association
- Devex
- Intelligence and National Security Alliance
- NAFSA: Association of International Educators
- Peace and Collaborative Development Network
- Society for International Development
- Society for Risk Analysis
- Washington Evaluators
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executive.
Global International Relations
This major is offered in coordination with American University & Ritsumeikan University in Japan.
Marketable Skills
- Oral/Written Communication
- Flexibility
- Teamwork
- Research/Analysis
- Cross-cultural Competency
- Critical Thinking
Relevant Fields
- Government/Policy
- Diplomacy
- Development and Global Health
- International Economics
- Leadership/Management
- Education
- Language
- Journalism
- Law
Sample Occupational Titles
- Foreign Policy Advisor
- Diplomat
- Foreign Service Officer
- NGO Manager/Director
- Intelligence Analyst
- Immigration Specialist
- International Trade Consultant
- Professor
- Interpreter
- Foreign Affairs Journalist
- International Affairs Lawyer
Additional Online Resources
- Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs Career Guide
- Devex's Next Generation Professional Report
- Foreign Service Suggested Reading
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
School of Public Affairs
Data Sciences for Justice, Law, & Criminology
Marketable Skills
Data Sciences for Justice, Law, and Criminology majors develop the following professional skills:
- Analytical skills: researching, examining and interpreting data findings
- Computer skills: writing code, developing and improving algorithms, using data visualization tools
- Communication skills: delivering oral and written presentations
- Logical-thinking skills: understanding, designing, and developing statistical models
- Math skills
- Problem-solving skills
Relevant Fields
- Government
- International Organizations
- Law & Law Enforcement
- Cybersecurity
- Counterterrorism
- Homeland Security
- Private Sector
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Data Scientist
- Data Architect
- Information Security Analyst
- Forensic Data Analyst
- Data Protection Officer
- Counter-intelligence Officer
- Advanced Degree
- Senior Data Consultant
- Commercial Intelligence Manager
- Director of Global Intelligence
- University Professor
- Senior Research Coordinator
- Policy Analyst
Additional Online Resources
Careers in Government
Center On Juvenile and Criminal Justice
U.S. Department of Justice
Criminal Justice Careers
CyberSecurityJobs.com
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences
- American Correctional Association
- American Society of Criminology
- The International Association of Crime Analysts
- International Community Justice Association
- Justice Research and Statistics Association
- National Organization for Victim Assistance
- The Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences
- The Academic Data Science Alliance
Find more professional associations at American Society of Association Executives.
Data Sciences for Political Science
Marketable Skills
Data Sciences for Political Science majors develop the following professional skills:
- Analytical skills: researching, examining and interpreting data findings
- Computer skills: writing code, developing and improving algorithms, using data visualization tools
- Communication skills: delivering oral and written presentations
- Logical-thinking skills: understanding, designing, and developing statistical models
- Math skills
- Problem-solving skills
Relevant Fields
- Advocacy
- Government
- International Organizations
- Law
- Nonprofit Management
- Politics/Policy Development
- Private Sector
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Data Scientist
- Polling Analyst
- Data Architect
- Project Coordinator
- Database Manager
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Advanced Degree
- Senior Data Consultant
- Commercial Intelligence Manager
- Director of Global Intelligence
- University Professor
- Senior Research Coordinator
- Policy Analyst
Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- The American Association of Political Consultants
- American Political Science Association
- International City/County Management Association
- National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration
- The Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences
- The Academic Data Science Alliance
Find more professional associations at American Society of Association Executives.
Interdisciplinary Studies: Communication, Legal Institutions, Economics, & Government (CLEG)
Marketable Skills
CLEG majors develop professional skills and competencies including:
- Identifying and answering questions of importance
- Formulating, developing, completing, and presenting original projects
- Research methods: data collection, analysis, interpretation, findings communication
- Critical thinking and analysis: inductive and deductive reasoning, argumentation
- Communication: professional writing, public speaking, persuasion, intercultural exchange
- Leadership and social action
- Knowledge of public affairs: government, legal institutions, economics, communication
Relevant Fields
- Administration & Management
- Broadcasting
- Consulting
- Criminal Justice
- Financial Analysis
- Government
- Law/Law Enforcement
- News Reporting & Editing
- Nonprofit Management
- Politics/Policy Development
- Public/Community Relations
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Activist/Organizer
- Campaign Operative
- Congressional/Committee Staffer
- Financial Analyst
- Management Trainee
- News Associate
- Paralegal
- Public Relations Assistant
- Research Assistant
- Advanced Degree
- Attorney
- Copy Editor
- Court Administrator
- Economist
- Journalist
- Lobbyist
- Management Consultant
- Policy Analyst
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- The American Association of Political Consultants
- American Bar Association
- The American Economic Association
- American Political Science Association
- Council of Public Relations Firms
- National Association of Broadcasters
- National Association for Business Economists
- National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration
- National Federation of Paralegal Associations
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Justice & Law
Marketable Skills
Justice majors develop professional skills including:
- Knowledge of a broad range of social issues and their stakeholders
- Strong critical thinking skills
- Strong writing skills and experience adapting content for different audiences
- Experience facilitating conversations and presenting in front of groups
- Comfort working individually and as a member of a team
Relevant Fields
- Advocacy
- Education
- Government
- Law
- Law Enforcement
- Nonprofit Management
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Correctional Treatment Specialist
- Government Relations Associate
- Investigative Assistant
- Legislative Assistant
- Program Associate
- Research Specialist
- Teacher
- Advanced Degree
- Attorney
- Criminal Investigator
- Development Officer
- FBI Agent
- Government Relations Director
- Grants Officer
- Intelligence Analyst
- Policy Analyst
- Professor
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences
- American Correctional Association
- American Society of Criminology
- The International Association of Crime Analysts
- International Community Justice Association
- Justice Research and Statistics Association
- National Organization for Victim Assistance
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Legal Studies
Marketable Skills
Law and Society majors develop professional skills including:
- Strong writing skills and experience adapting content for different audiences
- The ability to analyze and interpret advanced texts and theories
- Strong interpersonal and intercultural communication skills
- Experience facilitating conversations and presenting in front of groups
- Strong critical thinking and communication skills
- Comfort working individually and as a member of a team
Relevant Fields
- Advocacy
- Education
- Government
- Law
- Nonprofit Management
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Government Relations Associate
- Legal Assistant
- Legislative Assistant
- Paralegal
- Program Associate
- Research Specialist
- Teacher
- Advanced Degree
- Attorney
- Government Relations Director
- Grants Officer
- Judge
- Professor
- Policy Analyst
- Program Manager
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- Alliance for Justice
- American Bar Association
- NALS – The Association for Legal Professionals
- National Association of Legal Assistants
- National Federation of Paralegal Associations
Find additional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.
Political Science
Marketable Skills
Political Science majors develop professional skills and competencies including:
- Identifying and answering questions of importance
- Formulating, developing, completing, and presenting original projects
- Research methods: data collection, analysis, interpretation, findings communication
- Critical thinking and analysis: inductive and deductive reasoning, argumentation
- Communication: professional writing, public speaking, persuasion, intercultural exchange
- Leadership and social action
- Knowledge of public affairs: American politics, comparative Politics, political theory, public policy, public law, gender, race, and politics
Relevant Fields
- Advocacy
- Government
- International Organizations
- Journalism
- Law
- Nonprofit Management
- Politics/Policy Development
- Private Sector
Sample Occupational Titles
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Activist/Organizer
- Campaign Operative
- Congressional Office/Committee Staffer
- Labor Relations Specialist
- Teacher
- Advanced Degree
- Attorney
- Foreign Service Officer
- Lobbyist
- Policy Analyst
- Research Analyst
- University Professor
Additional Online Resources
Professional Associations
The following professional associations offer career-related information and job listings:
- The American Association of Political Consultants
- American Political Science Association
- International City/County Management Association
- National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration
Find more professional associations at the American Society of Association Executives.