4-YEAR DEGREES

Students find success.

There are numerous studies and reports that indicate a large percentage of all jobs today require four-year degrees, and when it comes to choosing a degree, there are a number of things to consider.

“UH is fortunate to have employers calling and posting jobs, which helps us keep abreast of the business community’s needs.” — Monica Thompson, executive director, university career services, University of Houston

For example, do not base the choice of degree path on the current economic market, because in four years, things likely will be different. And since knowing the future is impossible, it is suggested to pick a degree that interests you, which means you will enjoy the studies more and probably achieve better grades.

Also, if you choose a degree in a less-in-demand career, consider a minor in a subject that is known for being in demand, no matter what the employment market is like. These high-demand degrees are business, finance, accounting, teaching or one of the information technology areas. These degrees are also the top five national four-year degree plans in demand for 2017.

Most degree plans require problem-solving skills, clear thinking, computer literacy, good written and oral communication skills, and logic. However, recruiters also are looking for soft skills, and college is an excellent place to practice these when working on a team for school projects, and other situations such as living in a dormitory. Students can take advantage of these opportunities while in college, as they will pay off when it comes time to move into the working world.

The top four-year degrees for 2016 are similar to those for 2017, and are accounting, computer science, finance, business administration/management, mechanical engineering, information sciences and systems, management information systems, electrical engineering, logistics/supply chain, economics, and marketing.

All of these degrees are related to careers that help keep companies and organizations in business, and the world prosperous. They also are known for being more recessionroof than some other careers.

Houston Baptist University is seeing some of the same top degree plans, mainly due to the Texas Medical Center, which continues to expand.

“Top areas of interest are nursing, pre-med and other degree plans associated with health sciences. Education and business are also near the top,” said James Steen, vice president of enrollment management at Houston Baptist University.

In addition, the University of Houston’s top degree plans are similar to the national list.

“Our top degrees are accounting/finance; computer science; technology; supply chain and logistics; engineering disciplines such as electrical, mechanical and petroleum; management information systems; marketing; and business administration management,” said Monica Thompson, executive director of university career services, University of Houston.

Thompson’s list of top degree plans is based on those in demand by local employers.

“UH is fortunate to have employers calling and posting jobs, which helps us keep abreast of the business community’s needs,” Thompson said.