Graduating with a bachelor’s degree is exciting, but it can also be a little overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure what comes next. Maybe you loved your major, or maybe you’re realizing now that it doesn’t quite match your career goals.
The good news? There are plenty of jobs you can get with any bachelor’s degree, regardless of what you studied. Let’s take a look at versatile job options and explore some practical advice for landing your first position.
- Common Jobs You Can Get with Any Bachelor’s Degree
- Why a Bachelor’s Degree Is a Strong Foundation
- Tips for Maximizing Job Opportunities with a Bachelor’s Degree
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Takeaways
Common Jobs You Can Get with Any Bachelor’s Degree
Let’s get into some specific roles that are open to people with any bachelor’s degree. These positions value skills over specific coursework, which makes them great options if you’re open to exploring different fields.
1. Sales representative
If you’re a people person, a sales role is one of the jobs you can get with any bachelor’s degree. Sales reps are all about connecting with people, figuring out what they need, and showing how a product or service can help them out.
It’s a job that’s highly social—you’re usually on the phone, in meetings, or even attending events to build relationships with clients. Communication skills are the star here, so if you’re extroverted and enjoy talking to people, this job could be a great fit.
One of the best parts about working in sales is that it’s not only common but also super flexible. If you’re interested in tech, retail, healthcare, or something else, almost every industry has a need for sales reps.
Plus, you’ll get an insider’s view of the industry you work in, which can open up even more doors. You might start as a sales rep but end up moving into management, marketing, or product development as you learn the ropes.
When it comes to pay, sales roles have a lot of potential. A typical base salary for a sales representative is around $73,080 per year according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. But the real perk? Commissions. Top-performing reps can easily make $80,000 or even more, thanks to bonuses and commissions. If you’re good at it, a sales job is one of the best jobs you can get with any bachelor’s degree.
2. Human resources specialist
Human resources (HR) is another fantastic option if you’re looking for jobs you can get with any bachelor’s degree. Working in HR, you’ll be the go-to person for anything related to hiring, onboarding new employees, and handling questions about benefits or company policies. HR specialists are like the glue that holds a workplace together. They make sure everything’s running smoothly, from recruitment to employee relations.
What’s great about HR is that it doesn’t require any particular degree, just strong communication and people skills. If you’re someone who enjoys helping others and keeping things organized, HR could be a perfect match.
In this role, you’ll handle tasks like screening resumes, setting up interviews, and guiding new hires through their first days on the job. And since HR is all about creating a positive work culture, you’ll also get involved in team-building activities and employee wellness programs.
The salary for an HR specialist typically averages around $67,650 per year, which is pretty solid for an entry-level role. With experience, HR can become one of the higher-paying jobs you can get with any bachelor’s degree, especially as you advance to roles like HR manager or director.
3. Project manager
Project management is one of the most versatile jobs you can get with any bachelor’s degree. It might sound like it’s only for business majors, but it’s actually perfect for anyone who’s organized and loves coordinating details.
As a project manager, you’ll be the person making sure everything gets done on time, within budget, and without too many bumps along the way. Think of it like organizing a big group project, but on a professional scale.
Project managers are needed in all sorts of industries, from tech and healthcare to construction and marketing. Your job is to keep things running smoothly, which means planning timelines, managing resources, and checking in with team members to make sure everyone’s on the same page. If you’re a natural problem-solver and don’t mind juggling a few tasks at once, project management could be a great fit.
The average starting salary for project managers ranges from $60,000 to $70,000, with potential to earn more as you gain experience. In time, project management can become a six-figure job you can get with any bachelor’s degree. If you’re good at staying organized and enjoy leading a team, this role has tons of room for growth.
4. Marketing associate
Marketing is one of those fields where creativity meets strategy, and it’s a common job you can get with any bachelor’s degree.
As a marketing associate, you’ll work on tasks like managing social media accounts, creating engaging content, and helping plan campaigns. Marketing associates are usually the ones who bring the brand to life by figuring out what resonates with people and making sure it gets out there in a fun, memorable way.
What’s great about marketing is that you don’t need a specific degree to get started—just some creativity and a willingness to learn. This job is especially awesome if you like trying out new ideas, working on different projects, and thinking about what makes people tick.
From posting on Instagram and drafting an email newsletter to brainstorming a new ad campaign, every day is different. Plus, you’ll likely get some hands-on experience with tools like Canva or Adobe, which can look great on your resume.
Marketing associates usually start out with salaries between $50,000 and $60,000, but specializing in areas like digital marketing or content strategy can help you earn even more. Marketing management is one of the higher-paying jobs you can get with any bachelor’s degree as you build experience.
5. Financial analyst
If you’re a numbers person, you might enjoy a role as a financial analyst, which is one of the top-paying jobs you can get with any bachelor’s degree. Financial analysts look at data to help companies make smarter financial decisions.
In this job, you’ll analyze trends, forecast financial outcomes, and provide insights that can help shape a company’s strategy. Financial analysts are like detectives, but instead of investigating crimes, they’re looking into numbers and trends to help businesses succeed.
Many financial analysts have backgrounds in finance or economics, but it’s not a hard requirement. As long as you’re comfortable with numbers and enjoy digging into data, you can learn the ropes. Plus, financial analysts don’t just work in finance, they’re needed in tech, healthcare, retail, and more, so there’s flexibility in where you work.
Financial analysts typically earn $99,010 on average, but experienced analysts can make much more, especially in top companies. It’s one of the highest-paying jobs you can get with any bachelor’s degree, and many people find that the analytical skills they gain here are valuable in other high-paying roles, too.
6. Administrative coordinator
Administrative roles might seem simple, but they’re actually a fantastic way to get your foot in the door, especially if you’re organized and detail-oriented. Administrative coordinator is a common job you can get with any bachelor’s degree.
As an administrative coordinator, you’ll handle tasks like scheduling, managing office supplies, and keeping communication flowing smoothly within a team. It’s one of those essential roles that makes sure everything in the office runs without a hitch.
While this job might sound basic, it’s actually a great starting point if you’re interested in moving into areas like HR, operations, or office management. You’ll get to see how a company operates from the inside, and you’ll gain experience that can easily transfer to other roles. Plus, since you’ll likely work with multiple departments, it’s a great way to figure out what areas interest you the most.
The average salary for an administrative coordinator is around $44,480, and while it’s on the lower end, there’s plenty of room for growth. Many people start in administrative roles and move up to managerial or specialized positions within a few years, especially if they’re interested in HR or operations. It’s a steady way to start building your career.
7. Management consultant
If you enjoy solving problems and helping organizations run more smoothly, a role in management consulting might be just what you’re looking for.
As a management consultant, you’ll be working with companies to help them improve their operations and address various challenges. This role is perfect if you love variety since you’ll be hopping from project to project and working with different clients.
Now, you don’t need a business degree to be successful here. Many consultants come from all sorts of backgrounds—think engineering, psychology, or even liberal arts. What’s important is having strong analytical skills and the ability to communicate your ideas effectively. You’ll need to convince clients to take your recommendations seriously, so being persuasive is a big plus!
Salaries for management consultants usually start around $73,319, but with experience, you can easily push past $100,000. It’s a lucrative job you can get with any bachelor’s degree and also offers valuable networking opportunities.
8. Health services manager
If you’re interested in healthcare and have a knack for management, health services manager is one of the highest-paying jobs you can get with any bachelor’s degree.
In this role, you’ll oversee the delivery of healthcare services in places like hospitals or clinics. You’ll manage staff, ensure compliance with regulations, and keep patient care at the forefront of everything you do.
You might start in a support role, like patient care coordination or administrative assistance, and work your way up. While a specific degree in healthcare administration is undeniably helpful, what really counts is having strong leadership skills and a good understanding of healthcare policies.
Health services managers typically earn around $110,680, with many experienced professionals making over $150,000 as they advance. The healthcare sector is always growing, so there’s a lot of demand for skilled managers, which makes this a stable and rewarding career choice.
Why a Bachelor’s Degree Is a Strong Foundation
Having a bachelor’s degree is your key to a ton of job opportunities. It shows employers that you’ve put in the effort and have a solid set of skills that they value. You’ve spent years tackling assignments, meeting deadlines, and juggling responsibilities—skills that are really important in any job.
Communication skills
One of the biggest skills you pick up is communication. From writing essays and giving presentations to working on group projects, you’ve learned how to express your ideas clearly. This skill is a must in fields like sales or marketing, where connecting with clients and coworkers is important.
And here’s the best part: communication skills are more in demand than ever. According to Forbes, LinkedIn just ranked communication as the #1 skill employers want in 2024. So whether you’re aiming for a career in customer service, tech, or beyond, being able to communicate well gives you a real edge.
Problem-solving skills
Then there’s problem-solving. In college, you often face challenging assignments that require you to think critically. If you’ve ever had to figure out how to ace a group project or analyze a tough case study, you already have that covered. Employers in roles like project management love candidates who can handle challenges and find smart solutions.
Teamwork
Teamwork is another huge part of your college experience. Working with classmates on projects teaches you how to collaborate, listen to different viewpoints, and work toward a common goal. This experience comes in handy in the workplace, especially in jobs that rely on collaboration, like in tech or healthcare.
Adaptability
And let’s not forget adaptability. College teaches you how to adjust to new situations, from adapting to a challenging course load to dealing with last-minute changes in group projects. In a fast-paced workplace, being able to pivot and stay flexible is a huge asset. Employers appreciate candidates who can roll with the punches and thrive in changing circumstances.
So, whether you studied history, biology, or something else entirely, your bachelor’s degree gives you a solid foundation for various careers. It shows potential employers that you’re capable and ready to take on the professional field.
Tips for Maximizing Job Opportunities with a Bachelor’s Degree
Maximizing job opportunities with a bachelor’s degree is all about building skills and connecting with the right people. Here are some actionable tips to help you stand out, make connections, and take steps toward a rewarding career:
1. Gain experience through internships.
Internships are one of the best ways to get real-world experience in your field. They can give you a taste of what it’s like to work in a particular industry and help you build valuable skills. For many jobs you can get with any bachelor’s degree, relevant experience can give you an edge.
Even if you have to take an unpaid internship, it can be worth it. You’ll learn a lot and also gain connections and insights that can help you land a job down the line. Plus, having an internship on your resume shows employers that you’re proactive and willing to learn.
2. Network.
Connecting with people who work in fields that interest you can open up a lot of doors. Attend industry events, join relevant groups on social media, or simply reach out to friends and family who might have connections.
LinkedIn is a fantastic tool for finding connections who might help you discover jobs you can get with any bachelor’s degree. Don’t just connect with people—engage with their content, ask for informational interviews, and let them know what you’re looking for. You never know who might have a lead on a job that’s perfect for you!
3. Get certifications.
Short-term certifications can really help you stand out from the crowd. From project management or digital marketing to data analysis, having these credentials can boost your resume and show employers that you’re serious about your career.
Many of these courses can be completed online and are relatively affordable, so they’re a smart investment in your future. Plus, the flexibility of online learning lets you balance your studies with other commitments, which makes it easier to upskill at your own pace.
There are plenty of places to get certified without breaking the bank. In addition to popular sites like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning, you can explore options on edX, Google Career Certificates, and HubSpot Academy.
Many of these platforms offer industry-recognized certifications and courses from top universities and companies, so you can learn directly from experts in the field. Plus, with flexible schedules, you can work through the material whenever it fits into your day.
4. Tailor your resume.
Generic resumes are easy to spot and often end up in the “no” pile. Customizing your resume for each job can really make a difference. Start by digging into the job description and pulling out the skills and qualifications that stand out. Then, incorporate these into your resume to show you’re a strong match for what they’re looking for.
Focus on your most relevant accomplishments. For example, if it’s a marketing role, mention specific campaigns you worked on and the results, like boosting social media engagement by 30% or driving more leads. Using numbers makes your experience feel real and shows potential employers exactly what you can bring to the table.
Also, don’t forget about formatting! Keep things clean and easy to read, with bullet points to help your main points stand out. Place the most important info at the top and stick to a simple, professional layout. A well-tailored, easy-to-read resume shows you’re serious about the role and understand what the company is looking for, and this gives you a solid edge in the hiring process.
5. Continue learning.
Keeping your skills fresh and up-to-date is a great way to stand out. Taking courses on platforms like Coursera, Udacity, or LinkedIn Learning can help you get into areas you’re interested in, like digital marketing, coding, or project management. It’s a great way to build new skills that make your resume pop and show employers that you’re proactive about growing.
Plus, these courses are flexible and often affordable, so you can learn at your own pace without breaking the bank. Employers love seeing candidates who stay curious and keep up with industry trends. It shows you’re committed to learning and improving, which can make a big difference in a competitive job market.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What kinds of jobs can you get with a bachelor’s degree in any field?
There are plenty of versatile jobs you can get with any bachelor’s degree. Common options include positions in sales, customer service, marketing, project management, human resources, and administrative support. These roles typically focus on transferable skills—like communication, organization, and teamwork—rather than a specific degree background.
2. What is the average salary of someone with a bachelor’s degree?
The average salary for someone with a bachelor’s degree in the U.S. is around $80,000 per year, but it varies by industry and location. Entry-level roles might start lower, while those in high-demand fields, like tech or finance, often offer higher starting salaries. With experience, many roles offer significant salary growth opportunities.
3. Are there high-paying jobs you can get with any bachelor’s degree?
Absolutely! Some top-paying jobs you can get with any bachelor’s degree include financial analyst (average salary: $99,010), health services manager (around $110,680), management consultant (starting around $73,319 but can exceed $100,000), and project manager (starting at $60,000–$70,000, with potential to reach $100,000+).
4. What’s the best way to find jobs you can get with any bachelor’s degree?
To find jobs that welcome candidates from all degree backgrounds, use job boards like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor, and search for roles that list skills rather than specific majors. Networking through professional events or alumni connections is also a great way to hear about opportunities that might not be posted online.
Takeaways
Here are a few things to keep in mind as you explore jobs you can get with any bachelor’s degree:
- Many employers are looking for adaptable, skilled candidates rather than specific degrees. Highlighting transferable skills like communication, problem-solving, and teamwork can make you a standout candidate in almost any job.
- Look into high-demand fields. Areas like sales, project management, and HR are open to all majors and offer plenty of room to grow. Many of these roles also come with clear paths for advancement and solid salaries as you gain experience.
- Certifications can make a big difference. Even a short course in project management, digital marketing, or another relevant area can give your resume a boost. Staying current with industry skills shows you’re committed to learning, which employers love.
- Make your resume specific to each job. Tailor your resume for each application to highlight the most relevant skills and achievements. This little extra effort can really help you stand out and show employers that you understand what they’re looking for.
- Worried that the major you choose won’t line up with your career after college? A college admissions consultant can help you connect your college choice to real-world opportunities and make the most of your bachelor’s degree.
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