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Top Business Careers

Market Research Analyst
Ranking 1

Median Salary $60,000 (Do Not Chase the Dollar - Chase Your Passion)
Educational Requirements Bachelors
Exploring the Dream Market research analysts study market conditions to examine potential sales of a product or service. They help companies understand what products people want, who will buy them, and at what price.
Living the Dream Because most industries use market research, these analysts are employed throughout the economy. Most analysts work full time during regular business hours. Some work under pressure of deadlines and tight schedules.
Reaching the Dream Most market research analysts need at least a bachelor’s degree. Top research positions often require a master’s degree. Strong math and analytical skills are essential.

Operations Research Analyst
Ranking 2

Median Salary $72,000 (Do Not Chase the Dollar - Chase Your Passion)
Educational Requirements Masters
Exploring the Dream Operations research analysts use advanced mathematical and analytical methods to help organizations investigate complex issues, identify and solve problems, and make better decisions.
Living the Dream Operations research analysts spend most of their time in offices. Almost all operations research analysts work full time.
Reaching the Dream Although some employers prefer to hire applicants with a master’s degree or PhDs, many entry-level positions are available for those with a bachelor’s degree. Since few schools offer bachelor’s or advanced degree programs in operations research, analysts

Accountant
Ranking 3

Median Salary $64,000 (Do Not Chase the Dollar - Chase Your Passion)
Educational Requirements Bachelors
Exploring the Dream Accountants and auditors prepare and examine financial records. They ensure that financial records are accurate and that taxes are paid properly and on time. Accountants and auditors assess financial operations and work to help ensure that organizations run efficiently.
Living the Dream Most accountants and auditors work full time. In 2012, about 1 in 5 worked more than 40 hours per week. Longer hours are typical at certain times of the year, such as at the end of the budget year or during tax season.
Reaching the Dream Most employers require a candidate to have a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field. Certification within a specific field of accounting improves job prospects. For example, many accountants become Certified Public Accountants (CPAs).

Financial Advisor
Ranking 4

Median Salary $68,000 (Do Not Chase the Dollar - Chase Your Passion)
Educational Requirements Bachelors
Exploring the Dream Personal financial advisors give financial advice to people. They help with investments, taxes, and insurance decisions.
Living the Dream Most personal financial advisors work in the finance and insurance industry or are self-employed. They typically work full time and may meet with clients in the evenings or on weekends.
Reaching the Dream Personal financial advisors typically need a bachelor’s degree. A master’s degree and certification can improve chances for advancement in the occupation.

Business Operations Manager
Ranking 5

Median Salary $95,000 (Do Not Chase the Dollar - Chase Your Passion)
Educational Requirements Diploma
Exploring the Dream Administrative services managers plan, direct, and coordinate supportive services of an organization. Their specific responsibilities vary by the type of organization and may include keeping records, distributing mail, and planning and maintaining facilities.
Living the Dream NA
Reaching the Dream A high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) diploma is typically required for someone to become an administrative services manager. However, administrative services managers typically enter the occupation with a bachelor’s degree. Adm

Bookkeeping, Accounting and Audit Clerk
Ranking 6

Median Salary $35,000 (Do Not Chase the Dollar - Chase Your Passion)
Educational Requirements Diploma
Exploring the Dream Bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks produce financial records for organizations. They record financial transactions, update statements, and check financial records for accuracy.
Living the Dream Bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks work in offices, and may do site visits. About 1 in 4 worked part time in 2012.
Reaching the Dream Most bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks need a high school diploma, and they usually learn some of their skills on the job. They must have basic math and computer skills, including knowledge of spreadsheets and bookkeeping software.

Marketing Manager
Ranking 7

Median Salary $119,000 (Do Not Chase the Dollar - Chase Your Passion)
Educational Requirements Bachelors
Exploring the Dream Advertising, promotions, and marketing managers plan programs to generate interest in a product or service. They work with art directors, sales agents, and financial staff members.
Living the Dream About 24 percent of advertising and promotions managers worked for advertising agencies in 2012. About 16 percent of marketing managers worked in the management of companies and enterprises industry.
Reaching the Dream A bachelor’s degree is required for most advertising, promotions, and marketing management positions. These managers typically have work experience in advertising, marketing, promotions, or sales.

Financial Manager
Ranking 8

Median Salary $110,000 (Do Not Chase the Dollar - Chase Your Passion)
Educational Requirements Bachelors
Exploring the Dream Financial managers are responsible for the financial health of an organization. They produce financial reports, direct investment activities, and develop strategies and plans for the long-term financial goals of their organization.
Living the Dream Financial managers work in many industries, including banks and insurance companies. Most financial managers work full time, and many work long hours.
Reaching the Dream Financial managers typically have a bachelor’s degree and 5 years or more of experience in another business or financial occupation, such as loan officer, accountant, auditor, securities sales agent, or financial analyst.

Meeting, Convention and Event Planner
Ranking 9

Median Salary $46,000 (Do Not Chase the Dollar - Chase Your Passion)
Educational Requirements Bachelors
Exploring the Dream Meeting, convention, and event planners coordinate all aspects of professional meetings and events. They choose meeting locations, arrange transportation, and coordinate other details.
Living the Dream Meeting, convention, and event planners spend most of their time in offices. They also work onsite at hotels or convention centers, and they often travel to attend events and visit prospective meeting sites. During meetings or conventions, planners may wo
Reaching the Dream Most meeting, convention, and event planning positions require a bachelor’s degree. Job opportunities should be best for those with a bachelor’s degree in hospitality or tourism management.

Compliance Officer
Ranking 10

Median Salary $62,000 (Do Not Chase the Dollar - Chase Your Passion)
Educational Requirements Bachelors
Exploring the Dream Examine, evaluate, and investigate eligibility for or conformity with laws and regulations governing contract compliance of licenses and permits, and other compliance and enforcement inspection activities not classified elsewhere.
Living the Dream NA
Reaching the Dream NA

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