Online Graduate Programs

Employment

Graduate school is a path to better employment if you are looking for a promotion or wanting to switch career paths entirely. Even if you are attaining a masters simply out of passion, finding a career will eventually become a major concern. One of the keys to graduate school is making it relevant to your future job hunt. Using your time there to make connections, teach students or conduct research shows future employers your commitment to a goal and ambition to achieve. This applies to those who seek academic positions or the traditional job market. If you have recently graduated but still cannot find decent employment do not give up hope, there are many options to put your skills to the test that you may not have realized. These articles have suggestions on the types of jobs available, finding one that works for you and using your education to leverage your resume.

Preparing Before Graduation

Using Graduate School Resources StrategicallyThe Chronicle, Margaret Newhouse, 1999

What can you do while attending graduate school in order to prepare for a career? Quite a lot, actually. As a graduate student you have a fair amount of control over your study and work, so use it as strategically as possible. Writing a dissertation that is relevant to a career rather than strict theory can help distinguish you from other applicants. Pursuing work experience while attending grad school may be the most effective way to attract job offers. Further, actively networking with those who have similar interests to you may prove valuable in achieving employment.

Finding and Using Graduate Student ResourcesFlorida State University Career Center, 2010

Before completing graduate school to embark on your search for full-time employment, consider making use of some of these resources. Get an early start on creating your professional documents by building your credentials. Of course, before you can build, it is important to know what direction you would like to head in. Take some time to figure out what it is that you are most interested in pursuing, and why. From there, utilize the included resources in order to be successful in your future job hunt.

Integrative Graduate Education and Research Traineeship

The Integrative Graduate Education and Research Traineeship is a major interdisciplinary training program for those in graduate education. Directed towards US PhD scientists and engineers, this program works to build upon traditional disciplinary knowledge. Teamwork and collaboration play prominent roles in the experience, contributing to the development of important leadership skills. Honing the personal and professional skills of those who are involved in the program, IGERT results in successful careers.

It is Who You Know and Who Knows YouThe Chronicle, Gary A. Olson, 2010

Expected to be (almost paradoxically) humble yet world-renowned, those in academe must network in order to succeed. While it may seem shameful to promote yourself so much, it can be highly effective in forming valuable professional relationships. Fighting for your ideas and promoting your work is important in gaining acknowledgement. Though a small handful of narcissists may give those in academe a bad name, boast about your accomplishments, and inform people around you of your work.

How To Plan for A Career Before You Have OneThe Chronicle, Bettina Woodford and Hadass Sheffer, 2002

Don't wait until it is too late to plan for your career. While the process of completing graduate school can be lengthy, there are some important steps to take in readying yourself for employment. Five guiding professional challenges can help you determine the mode of preparation most appropriate for you. Make use of available resources such as career centers, and do not hesitate to consult an academic placement adviser. Other resources such as learning centers can be great places to enhance your professional skills. It is also important to immerse yourself in the academic community; networking is one of the best ways to establish contacts and leads on jobs.

Make your career center work for youJennifer Bobrow Burns

Most campuses have career centers which offer valuable services to those seeking employment. Often offering a plethora of resources intended specifically for you, these centers provide great insight into the professional world. Career development and skills training are major areas of concern for those interested in pursuing jobs in a crowded market. Extracting all of the information possible out of such resources may be highly rewarding.

Career Guides and Thinking About Careers

Careers in Science and Engineering: A Student Planning Guide to Grad School and BeyondThe National Academies Press, 1996

Before embarking on an exciting career in the fields of science and engineering, it is important to ask some serious questions of yourself. For instance, what are your career goals, and what skills are necessary to achieve those goals? Explore the many aspects of employment in science and engineering, as well as steps to take at all stages of advanced education. Understanding your own values and interests will help guide you down the right career path.

Colleges by Career

Evaluating career options is easier with these career profile resources. Current grad students may appreciate the addition of job related courses and subjects. The inclusion of a career planning section will help effectively prepare you for your prospective career. Further, statistics regarding the viability of positions are presented; unemployment rates, job growth and wages allow you to determine what professions are most preferable. Examining the responsibilities of separate positions and the skills necessary to succeed in such positions can help you make informed decisions about your future career.

Occupational Outlook HandbookBureau of Labor Statistics, 2010-2011

Want to know if you are qualified for a certain position, or what sort of wages you can expect in different career paths? Investigate some of the hundreds of jobs in the current marketplace. Learn about the prospects of different occupations, as well as their duties and responsibilities. You can also get an advanced look into the working conditions experienced in different settings and state specific job market status.

Dissertations Initiative for the Advancement of Climate Change ResearchDissertations Initiative for the Advancement of Climate Change Research

Dissertations Initiative for the Advancement of Climate Change Research (DISCCRS) is a week-long symposium which strengthens interdisciplinary skills for scientists. Specifically aimed at those interested in environmental science and climate change, this workshop includes skills training, and teamwork exercises. Encouraging open communication and networking, this event is a great way to familiarize yourself with those that have similar interests. In addition to the seminar itself, a large number of career resources such as postdoctoral fellowship programs, professional development resources, as well as guides for writing research and funding proposals.

Career Information for Masters and PhD studentsSyracuse University

Syracuse University Career Services provides a great many resources for masters and PhD students interested in seeking employment. This online career center offers students the information necessary to acquire their dream jobs. Guides on resume writing, attaining appropriate credentials, self-marketing and career options are all hosted here. Tips on job searching and interviewing also ensure that students are able to attain their desired jobs.

NCCR Climate Summer SchoolThe National Centres of Competence in Research, 2011

Taking place in the scenic Swiss alps, the National Centres of Competence in Research hosts a yearly event which invites students to investigate problems related to climate change and the appropriate use of natural resources. This summer program familiarizes students with topics which address significant issues of the scientific community, while giving them the opportunity to network with leading members of academia. Additional conferences on climate policies and climate economics provide further insight into the topic. Outside of these events, you can become acquainted with the field through research and ongoing projects hosted here.

Postgraduate Careers Website

Intended especially for postgraduate students, LinkHigher matches individuals with companies that value their additional qualifications. Share your CV with established organizations, and connect with top employers. Postgraduate specific career advice informs you of how best to market yourself, and increase your employability. Further, available articles address major concerns among those seeking employment such as whether to join the private sector, or start your own business.

Be Honorable and StrategicScience, Chris Golde, 2001

Attaining a job in academia requires that you approach it ethically, while making strategic decisions throughout your academic and professional career. When it comes down to it, the job hunting process is comprised of three major things; knowing your goals, knowing your target, and negotiation. Before it is possible to seek employment, it is essential that you establish personal goals and values. Ask yourself what you need to be happy, what your priorities are, what your motivations are and what is important to your professional well-being. From there, seek opportunities which best match your interests. Thoroughly research positions in order to determine what jobs may be right for you.

Harvard Graduate School of Design ResourcesHarvard University Graduate School of Design

Myriad resources distinguish this guide for graduate level designers. Hosted by the Harvard University Graduate School of Design, this careers service offers occupational overviews, field specific career information, and handouts on practical aspects of job searching. Access to major institutions and programs related to fields such as architecture, urban design, digital media, and academia are emphasized. Resources for successfully networking and seeking fellowships are also given.

Academic and Professional DevelopmentUniversity of Minnesota Graduate School

Create a personalized professional development plan while learning about careers at the University of Minnesota Graduate School career services center. Whether you plan on entering academia or not, you can find resources which address your employment concerns here. Strengthen your grant and research proposal writing abilities through the many included writing guides and related resources. Additional tips for writing an effective cover letters and resumes are also provided in addition to interviewing tips.

Non-Academic Career Resources

A resource for PhDs considering employment outside of academeMark Johnson, 2009

Despite the desire to remain in academe, it is becoming a less viable option for employment. There are numerable opportunities for PhD students outside of the ivory tower, as long as they are willing to consider them. Making the switch to pursuing work in the private sector is easier than one may think, and there are still many employers who value the extra qualifications and skills of PhDs. A Frequently Asked Questions section explores how best to market yourself for non-academic companies, and what additional skills may be most helpful

From PhD to Self-Employed ConsultantThe Chronicle, Susan Basalla May, 2010

Are you considering a professional writing career? Faced with a seemingly bleak job market and an ever dwindling possibility to achieve tenure, you may consider becoming a self-employed consultant. The prospect of being your own boss, and working your own hours is highly attractive, but is it practical? In order to be successful right out of academe, it is necessary to adapt to a very different format and develop a number of additional skills.

Every PhD Needs a Plan BThe Chronicle, Alexandra M. Lord, 2009

The highly romanticized prospect of becoming a professor is becoming less and less achievable. Despite earning a PhD, it is unlikely that you will be placed in tenure track positions. Much can be done during your time at graduate school to increase your chances of becoming gainfully employed in the private sector. Paid and unpaid internships, for example, can be instrumental in securing employment. Rather than focusing on teaching assistantships, experience in diverse positions outside of the university can prove to employers that you have relevant skills and experience.

A hobby becomes a careerThe Chronicle, Susan Basalla May, 2010

Testing alternative careers through volunteer positions and internships will familiarize you with non-academic work. What's more is that such experiences are often low-risk exposures to potential careers. Balancing your activities outside of school can prove essential in discovering opportunities for employment. Such experiences also impart a broader understanding of what it means to be a part of meaningful work.

Four Steps to Succeeding Outside of the Ivory TowerJennifer Stone Gonzalez, 2000

Prospects for employment in the academy continue to darken as tenure-track careers seem unattainable, and adjunct professorships contribute to an overworked and underpaid workforce. Even those with jobs are increasingly unhappy, and experience depressingly low morale. The answer to this problem, despite the strong resistance to it, may be to abandon the crumbling ivory tower. While there may be some incongruity between what you have learned and what you need to know in a non-academic environment, the mental obstacles you have overcome during your grad school experience will pay off handsomely in real world environments.

Quasi academic careersThe Chronicle, Susan Basalla May, 2009

Working for organizations such as think-tanks may seem directly relatable to your graduate school experience, but this is not quite the case. Scott Keeter is a PhD graduate from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill who spent 24 years studying public opinion and voting behavior in political science as a faculty member. Later, he went on to be the chief methodologist for the Pew Research Center. His experience in both the academic world as well as the private sector provide insight into the skills necessary to survive. Networking and relationship building are important under-appreciated skills that can make the difference between being successful or not.

Versatile PhD

Become informed about academic employment realities while understanding the benefits of seeking work outside of academia. As a humanities or social science PhD holder, it is important to know that non-academic career options are available. Given the current economic climate, being versatile is necessary to succeed professionally. Here you can immerse yourself in a supportive community which educates individuals about non-academic careers in a positive manner.

Finding a Job

Just Garcia Hill

Just Garcia Hill is devoted to encouraging minority participation in science and engineering careers. Promoting underrepresented minorities to contribute to the scientific output of the United States would result in increased national competitiveness and greater innovation. Additionally, such involvement would result in improved quality of life for minority populations. Innumerable career resources and strategic advice for attaining employment in scientific positions work to realize the vision of this organization.

higher ed jobs

It can be hard to start a career in academia. Thankfully, websites like HigherEdJobs exist. Focused on providing opportunities in academic fields and positions, here you have access to a very high number of positions. A career resource section includes international academic employers,and higher education employment trends as well as information on HigherEd careers in general. Special features include a highly customizable search, and dual career option.

Life Sciences Research and Teaching: Strategies for the Successful Job HuntThe American Society for Cell Biology, Susan Goldhor et al., 2002

For those at the postdoctoral level interested in finding a research oriented position, this exhaustive handbook is your guide. Often, securing such a position requires patience, vigor, and planning. What steps should be taken in order to ensure appropriate professional development, and at what times? How do I spend my time to best appeal to employers, and what skills should I be strengthening? If I decide to switch career tracks, what do I need to know about industry and the private sector?
 
 

Aimed specifically at those with history PhDs, but helpful to manyAlexandra M. Lord

Though the prospect is romantic, academe might not be a viable option for you. Preconceived notions of the professional world often prevent individuals from finding jobs which they may be well suited to. Learn how to find enriching employment that aligns with your interests, and learn how to market yourself for those opportunities. Inquiry based content addresses your major concerns regarding the job hunt, while detailed articles explain available options.

Basics of Job Searching and PreparationKate Duttro, 2011

What is the relationship between employers and applicants? How does each look for what they want, and what are they looking for? Understand how employers perceive you, and learn how to show employers that you match their needs through your resume, CV, and interview. While traditional methods of finding jobs may work for some, the power of networking is undeniable, make it work for you.

How to find a job

Have any questions about job searching? If so, the Riley Guide most likely answers them in detail. Whether you need to know where to start looking for a job in a specific field, or what types of employers are hiring, many focused resources are available. Educate yourself on targeting and researching employers and effectively networking in order to get ahead in your pursuit of employment.

Post Doctoral Job Search

Vie for employment through this resource which matches postdoctoral students with higher educational facilities, research institutions, and government agencies. Directed channels such as this allow for greater focus and an emphasis on what you as an individual have to offer. Juxtaposed with others at the postdoctoral level, your values and unique experiences better determine job placement. From the perspective of academic institutions, ads posted here are seen by a highly interested demographic.

Survivor's GuiltThe Chronicle, Sally Racket, 2011

Being unable to find employment can be crippling, but there may yet be hope. Continued effort and persistence in the face of such challenge may be exactly what you need in order to land that dream job. The job hunt requires that you write time consuming dissertation summaries, institution specific cover letters, philosophy of teaching statements and rigorously investigate potential employers. After putting so much work into job searching and coming up empty handed, it may be difficult to continue, but you must prevail.

Job search

If you are a new scientist looking for employment, this may be your one-stop resource. Leading scientific organizations post a wide variety of employment opportunities at this focused job searching resource. Hundreds of openings which are especially pertinent to those at the graduate level make up the majority of available positions. Let your discipline, research, and interests guide your pursuit of a career.

Job listings and overviews

Educate yourself about possible career paths that are available, and become familiar with the areas surrounding employment for different fields. Read about a field's major occupations, its leading employers and the training and prerequisites which are necessary for many jobs. Snapshots into the responsibilities and benefits of many possible careers are explored. Further, gain access to professional organizations for each area.

It is who you know and who knows youThe Chronicle, Gary A. Olson, 2010

Expected to be (almost paradoxically) humble yet world-renowned, those in academe must network in order to succeed. While it may seem shameful to promote yourself so much, it can be highly effective in forming valuable professional relationships. Fighting for your ideas and promoting your work is important in gaining acknowledgement. Though a small handful of narcissists may give those in academe a bad name, many should boast about their accomplishments, and inform people around them.

Community College jobs for grad studentsThe American Association of Community Colleges

The high amount of competition among those vying for a select few employment positions in four year universities may mean that community college is right for you. Equally rewarding educational opportunities are available all over the country. The job bank hosts many vacancies for a number of positions. Additionally, professional development resources and other information related to the American Association of Community Colleges can be found here.

Chronicle of Higher EducationThe Chronicle

Advanced search options and high quality postings distinguish The Chronicle of Higher Education as a job listing website. Categories for positions on many different levels are included, and are accompanied by informative articles. Frequently updated and often visited, the Chronicle provides one of, if not the, most active and well established job listing websites for higher education. Seen by over 1.7 unique visitors a month, this resource is a highly influential and informative resource.

Student Jobs

Find employment through the federal government's job search intended for students. Agencies post job listings for nearly all interests and levels of education. The database is updated regularly and contains many opportunities. Complementary resources such as student educational programs and volunteer services make this a well rounded tool in pursuing work experience or employment.

Higher Education Recruitment ConsortiumThe Higher Education Recruiting Consortium

The Higher Education Recruitment Consortium is a collaborative effort created in response to academic recruitment and retention issues. Understanding that employment is an issue often affecting spouses and partners of employees, HERC assists in finding local jobs. A number of institutions have banded together in order to present employment opportunities via a web-based search engine. Diversity is another significant concern of HERC, which works to keep members of the higher education community employed.

Academic Job Search GuideYale University, Jenny Smith and Mary Johnson, 2003

How do you time an academic job search, what parameters are you working under? Different fields will require different planning, but generally, there is a timeline that will help keep you on track. Consider looking through some books which have been written on the subject of academic job searching such as Feibelman's A PhD Is Not Enough and The Academic Career Handbook. Further, a number of field specific job listing websites exist in order to help with your pursuit of an academic career.

Nature JobsNature

Sort through thousands of science and nature job opportunities from the premier source in scientific employment. Field leading employers from all over the world make use of this source, contributing to its quality. Familiarize yourself with prestigious international employers and their practices through the employer profiles section. An especially well established and frequented website, Naturejobs connects qualified applicants and renowned employers.

Hiring Process from the Other SideUniversity of California Berekely, 2011

While many applicants focus solely on themselves during the job hunt, it may be beneficial to consider what things are like for those on the other side of the table. Get an inside look into how the search committee operates and the stresses they are under. Learn what factors to take into consideration when performing in a conference interview. Further, just how important is the on-campus interview, and how is a final decision made? Given that employment opportunities at universities are rarely fixed due to additional funding or extenuating circumstances, do not limit yourself to applying seasonally.
 

Resumes, Cover Letters and Interviews

Cover Letters for Graduate StudentsUniversity of Chicago CAPS, 2010

What is a cover letter, and how should I best understand it? Supplement other resources such as your resume and CV with more detailed information that is exceptionally relevant to specific career fields and employers. Utilize this document as a way to explain your interests and goals, while also demonstrating your written communication ability. Directly addressing concerns of employers at this time shows that would be a good fit for the position, company, or field in which you are applying.

PhD CV GuideUniversity of California Berkeley, 2008

More than simply detailing your academic history, a CV is a tool which piques the interest of your future colleagues and persuades them to review your additional application materials. As a PhD student with a significant amount of academic experience, how do you best present yourself? Make sure to prioritize material in your CV so that you are conveying what is most important to potential employers. Considering the number of applicants you will most likely be competing against, make sure to be as succinct as possible.

Transforming your CV to a Resume: Representing Yourself Outside of AcademeUniversity of Chicago CAPS, 2010

Your curriculum vita will showcase your training and interests above everything else. While a resume conveys your work experience, your CV explains your intellectual accomplishments and who you are. In seeking a non-academic career, it is especially important to make some considerations regarding the differences between these two documents. Understanding the relationship between the CV and resume will allow you to best inform potential employers of who you are, what your qualifications are, and how you can help them.

Qualms and Questions for an Academic Job InterviewThe Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology, Clyde F. Herreid II and Robert J. Full

Ironically, despite all of the training and research that goes into a graduate education, many graduates have no idea how to ask helpful questions during an interview. Given the length of the usual academic job interview process, there will be many opportunities to gain valuable information. One of the most important things to keep in mind is that people in different positions will generally have different perspectives. Questioning a variety of people will ensure that you gain insight into how your prospective place of employment will operate, and where its emphasis is. What sorts of questions should you ask in order to learn the most, and make the best impression?

Telephone Interviewing

You may know how to prepare for a one on one in-person interview, but what about a phone interview? The unique challenges posed by telephone interviewing catch many off-guard, but you can learn how to avoid the common pitfalls. Consider some of the logistical issues surrounding phones, such as coverage, noise in your immediate area and other unwanted distractions. Phone interviews also have some advantages over in-person interviews, such as the ability to reference notes, but make sure not to get lost in your resources. Remain focused and maintain virtual eye contact with your interviewers over the phone.

Interviewing for research and teaching appointmentsUniversity of Chicago CAPS

As a PhD candidate or postdoc looking to enter the academic job market, what do you need to know about the interview process? Due to the involved and lengthy process of interviewing with institutions, there is quite a bit to learn. Among the most important concepts to master are learning to talk about yourself comfortably and convincing interviewers that you are able to hit the ground running if hired. You have to convince interviewing institutions that you will succeed in all areas of your job, and not rely on the excellence of your dissertation or research.

How to Handle Difficult Interview QuestionsThe Chronicle, Mary Morris Heiberger and Julia Miller Vick, 1999

Beyond the common questions you can expect from most potential employers, how are you to deal with especially challenging questions? At times you will be asked frustrating or outright illegal questions, but knowing how to respond appropriately can result in better outcomes. Reframing the question in a way that addresses the concerns behind it without negative connotation is one way to respond. Depending on the question itself, it may be better to simply evade or avoid revealing sensitive information.

Some Typical Academic Geoscience Interview QuestionsThe Science Education Resource Center at Carleton College, 2010

When attempting to gain academic employment in the Geosciences, what sorts of questions will be asked of me, and what sorts of questions should I ask? Perusing some of the most common questions that you can expect about your research, teaching and academic "fit" can help you formulate answers. Anticipating these questions can be highly beneficial, allowing you to eloquently provide responses. It is equally important, however, to ask questions of those involved in the institution at which you are interviewing. Learn what to ask who in order to have the greatest impact and get the information you want.

Informational InterviewsRobert Shannon

Quite different from the traditional job interview, informational interviews can be valuable tools for learning about a career, or its related field. Get an inside perspective by discussing issues which are important to you with someone who is highly familiar with that field. Compose as many questions as possible and be prepared to answer a few questions about yourself. The more your subject knows about you, the more specifically they can address your concerns.

After Interview and NegotiationUniversity of Washington Center for Career Services, 2006

After you have finished your exhausting interview process, what can you expect, and what should you do to ensure that you are getting the best deal possible? Negotiating some details pertaining to your new potential job can greatly affect the quality of your experience or employment. What considerations should you make, and what should your priorities be? Among the most important topics are negotiating a sufficient salary, achieving optimal resources and understanding the limitations you will be operating under.

Winning ResumeNature, 2011

Carefully crafting a resume which accurately reflects your experience, professional accomplishments and strengths is key in making a good first impression. Prioritize information that explains to your potential employer why you are valuable to them, and how you fit the job description. Learn how to make the content of your resume stand out, while also minimizing the amount of space taken up. Once you've gotten a solid resume written, fine-tune it so that it is most effective.

How to Write a Resume that Generates ResultsRockport Institute

A well written resume greatly distinguishes you from the hordes of people competing for any given prospective job. While experience and skills are certainly important, it is arguably more important to most effectively highlight those abilities and experiences. Showing future employers that your abilities fit their requirements is a great way to persuade them that they should hire you. Perhaps more than anything, a resume is a tool for landing an interview. Make your resume unique, interesting, and directly relevant to the job you are applying for.

Ask and You Might ReceiveInside Higher Ed, Elia Powers, 2006

Women in higher education careers typically receive less pay, but for what reasons? Cultural perceptions from both genders are to blame for the lower pay rate experienced by many women. While the pay gap between women and men may be a result of the cultural perception of women, women's perceptions of themselves also negatively affect their pay. Sharon Block explains that women often undersell themselves and less often negotiate for higher pay. Similarly, many women are hesitant to aggressively pursue more advanced positions in lieu of wanting to be good team players.

How are resumes selected?Kate Duttro, 2010

Resume selection has undergone dramatic change in response to the developments in technology and online job posting sites. Understanding the process behind resume selection can be essential in deciding what to place and how to place it on your resume. Before you finalize what you may think is a perfect resume understand that often, especially for high demand positions, these are scanned automatically and compiled in a different format. Learning how the selection process for resumes and CVs have changed may alter the way you write.

Resources for the Unemployed

What to advise unemployed graduatesThe Chronicle, Thomas H. Benton, 2009

If you are an unemployed graduate don't panic. Research shows that in 2009 fewer than twenty percent of graduates had actually found employment. The market may be hit hard at the moment, but things will clear up. Graduate school can or already has helped you develop some important professional skills and qualities. As you approach the job market, remember to keep a few things in mind; research prospective employers, network, and be flexible.

A Reprieve from UnemploymentThe Chronicle, Grant Greene, 2002

This story of hope from an unemployed graduate student shows that things may not be as bad as they seem. Sometimes opportunities can come from seemingly nowhere. Ardently networking may be frustrating, but a continued effort may provide the opportunity you need. Keep your eyes open, and remain aware of possibilities which others may miss out on.

Love Affair With AcademiaInside Higher Ed, Eliza Woolf, 2010

Non-academic jobs may be available, but if you are devoted to academia, are they any replacement? If you are truly passionate about academia, you may be right for holding out. A goal of lifelong learning and self-improvement is certainly highly rewarding and many in academia remain positive about their experience. After assessing your priorities, if academia remains at the top of your list, continue to approach it.

Rethinking prioritiesInside Higher Ed, Monica F. Jacobe, 2011

While achieving a PhD is a huge accomplishment, being unemployed immediately afterwards is difficult to deal with. As you are faced with this challenge, it is important to ask yourself some questions: Why are you doing this? What can you not live without? What role does work play in your identity? For instance, determine whether you would prefer to research, teach, or have a mixture of both in your life. Understand how far you are willing to go for employment, literally and metaphorically. Attempting to answer these questions will help you establish your professional priorities.

Sign up for unemployment

Do you meet the criteria for unemployment? Sign up for government benefits online to keep you afloat while you search for a job. Read pertinent information about applying and how unemployment can help you. Finding employment can be a lengthy and frustrating process, but government aid can help you focus on the task at hand.

The Changing Face of UnemploymentNielsen Wire, Doug Anderson, 2009

Unemployment is changing in the United States. Continuing to adversely affect sectors which have typically been immune to recessions, unemployment is not the same as it used to be. Even men, individuals with advanced degrees, and upper age consumers are increasingly hit by unemployment, contributing to a significantly different unemployment profile. Growing fastest among the college education, what other trends can we expect to see in the job market?

Create Your Own Job OfferU.S. News and World Report Money, Tim Tyrell-Smith, 2011

Tired of being unemployed? The answer may lie in creating your own employment opportunity. Instead of endlessly searching for a job that never seems to come, maybe you should become an entrepreneur. Consider your talents and passions and then brainstorm potential business opportunities. Additionally, networking with like-minded individuals may help you establish a new venture. Another option is to seek contract or part-time work with start-up companies that may need extra help.

Positive Employment trends2011

National and local market trends are exposed. While jobs declined slightly in May, openings are still much improved over last year's. Further, job competition is decreasing, meaning more likelihood for success in applying for some positions. The finance and retail sectors are growing quickly, and remain the market's strongest areas.

Hiring on the riseBaltimore Business Journal, Scott Dance, 2010

The private sector is continuing to strengthen despite the hard economic times it has been facing. A recent survey suggests that many companies are looking to increase their hiring efforts, with a special emphasis on technological positions. Furthermore, the data suggest that more options for advancement are becoming available. Full time positions as well as part time positions seem to be on the up and up, leaving grad students with greater opportunities for non-academic employment.

Top Industries Expected to Grow2010

Relatively recent changes in the job market have had a significant influence over the availability of certain jobs. Some fields are growing, while others continue to shrink. Further, specific types of jobs are becoming more available in some sectors. The increasing interest in green energy and sustainability, for instance, is dramatically affecting the number of positions which are opening up. Peruse jobs from emerging and developing sectors through the customized search ability provided here.

Post-Grad Full Time VolunteeringBoston College, 2010

Volunteer positions are excellent opportunities for developing important professional skills and can be effective in building networks and working relationships. Seeking a spot in a long term volunteer position is a potential alternative to immediately entering the work force. Many organizations which require extended involvement provide room and board as well as a stipend which covers living expenses. Volunteer positions may not be for everyone, and anyone entertaining the idea of pursuing them should consider the requirements.

Unemployment Intervention2011

J.T. O'Donnel provides cutting edge concepts related to unemployment which explain how to deal with the unemployment crises we are facing. Who is responsible for the 9.1 percent unemployment rate we are facing? With the average job search taking up to a whopping 39 weeks, something needs to be done immediately. Should businesses begin hosting awards shows for those who actively increase employment opportunities? What actions can we take in shaping the job market to lower unemployment, and increase hiring?

Great Career Sites

O*NET Online

Need more information about an occupation? The O*NET database holds hundreds of standardized descriptions which are occupation specific. A leading source on job related information, O*NET is built from large-scale surveys. Explore what exactly specific occupations entail, while getting a feel for the levels of satisfaction among workers.

Acquiring International Careers

If you want an international career, or are an international student looking for work in the United States the International Careers Consortium (ICC) may be the answer. The ICC provides resources online in addition to a variety of workshops and conferences related to issues of international employment. Operating with members from academia, universities, and Education Abroad professionals, here you can find a lot of necessary information. Resources for all types of interested parties are categorized and presented simply.

Wall Street Journal Professional Careers

How is employment changing, and what will the implications of those changes be? High quality news stories from the world of professional careers give you valuable information about trends in the workplace. Learn about the marketplace as it is develops through a combination of research, observation, and professional information. Investigate careers by sector and development or peruse be the student journal section.

Best Places to Work in the Federal Government2010

Want to know which jobs have the best work/life balance, or have the most generous pay? Learn about where to work, and why through this ongoing series of reports. Find analysis and employee satisfaction ratings pertaining to numerous components of the work environment for agencies in the federal government. Rankings are given in addition to demographically specific ratings which give readers the best picture of a workplace. Choose an employer based on your priorities and interests.

On the Job

Need more than just the newspaper's financial column to learn about contemporary issues in the workplace? Read about the latest trends and practices as they surface. Articles are pertinent for recent graduates, grad school students, and those at all levels of a career. Whether you are looking for employment, looking to advance, or simply survive, consider reviewing these words of wisdom.

current employersScience

Research some of the foremost employers in scientific fields in order to be better prepared for applying. Understand the priorities and work of these leading groups through dynamic resources which include multimedia and external links. Further, learn about how they are developing, and what types of employees they are looking for. Based on the journal titled Science, the current employers section is helpful for anyone interested in pursuing a scientific career.

Simply Hired

The world's largest job search engine also has a blog to go with it. Tips on how to best prepare for a job or fine-tune a resume are among the many topics covered. More advanced information on the strength of the job market and unemployment rates are frequently included. Employment trends in general make up a significant section of the blog as well.