What Can You Do With Your Degree

17 May 2019
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Imagine, that you have just completed four plus years of study, received your degree and are now wondering what is next? Firstly, congratulations - because receiving your degree is an awesome accomplishment and should be celebrated!

What can you do with your degree? Here are Three Steps to Assist You In Your Career Journey:

1. What employment options does your degree offer? You can discover many pathways at WorkBC.ca:

  • Explore Sample Career Titles:
  • Computer Science: Computer network specialist - Web developer - Robotics technician - Air traffic controller - Mobile app designer - Artificial intelligence developer - Video game tester/designer – Graphics developer – Health information analyst
  • Specialized counsellor: Behavioral analyst - Human rights advisor - Writer - Criminologist - Public relations specialist - Cultural diversity consultant - Social or health policy researcher – Human resources – Customs inspector – Life skills coach
  • Environmental Science: Natural resources specialist - Wildlife manager- Fisheries conservationist - Air quality specialist - Industrial advisor - Forester/Park naturalist - Scientific journalist – Renewable energy consultant – Environmental technician
    • Check out the 500 career profiles to get all the information regarding a career.
    • Check out Career Trek videos to view what a “day in the life of” would look like in different occupations.

2. Self-reflection:

  • Why did you decide on the degree you chose? What was it that interested you?
  • Does your degree align with your social values and offer the opportunity to create an impact that you were hoping to achieve?
  • Does work/life balance play an important role when deciding on a career choice?

3. What you can do to assist in finding employment?

  • Visit WorkBC.ca job board; narrow your search using the keyword function.
  • Check industry job boards; Many professional organizations have their own job boards.
  • Research employers that align with your interests and values; visit their website career boards; request an informational meeting/interview.
  • Attend career fairs – it’s a great opportunity to interact with potential employers.
  • Acquire membership to professional associations relative to your degree.
  • Participate in co-operative education and internship opportunities.
  • Network by attending events that align with your degree and interests.
  • Volunteer to gain the work experience you may be lacking.
  • Use social media in your job search; and spread the word of your career aspirations!
  • Visit your University’s Career Services Centre to discuss employment options with a career or guidance counsellor. Also, check out these university’s websites for career options in your area of study/degree: UBC, SFU, UofT, YorkU, UVIC, UNBC.

If you are still undecided on your major/degree, review the Labour Market Outlook, which provides the most up-to-date information on the types of jobs that will be in demand in B.C. between now and 2028. as Also check out post-secondary student outcomes, an annual survey summarizing which education programs lead to good jobs and produce grads who are ready for employment.

“Ninety-three per cent of students who took part in a 2017 BC Student Outcomes survey were “very satisfied” or “satisfied” with the education they received. Graduates had an unemployment rate between 5.7% and 11.7%, depending on the type of program.”