Once you have identified a few academic and career areas that complement your interests and strengths, your next step should be to research these fields thoroughly. When exploring careers, take note of the knowledge and education credentials that are required for entrance into these careers. For some professions, there are very specific education requirements that must be met; however, many professions are open to people from diverse education backgrounds. University of Maryland University College (UMUC) advisors recommend the following resources for information about careers and UMUC majors.

Career Information Resources

• UMUC Career Center. The Career Center Web site contains numerous career planning and job search resources, including links to job search sites in specific fields, which can inform you about the types of opportunities available in these fields.

• Occupational Outlook Handbook. This online resource by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics is one of the most comprehensive sources of current career information. You can search for specific careers or browse career categories. For each career, you will find information such as education requirements, working conditions, earning potential, and the employment outlook.

• Professional organizations in your field(s) of interest. Many professional organizations offer information especially for students and student membership at a reduced rate.

• Professional mentors. The best way to learn about a career is to talk to someone who knows what it is like, day in and day out. The UMUC Mentor Network will pair you with a professional working in your field of interest.

Information about UMUC Majors and Minors

• Undergraduate Majors and Minors Web Page. This page links you to the individual pages for each undergraduate major and minor. For each major, you will find information about degree requirements. Updates are in progress and soon you will find information on professional organizations, industry news, and job resources for your program of interest.

• Undergraduate Catalog. The Catalog outlines the academic requirements for each major and provides complete descriptions of the required courses.

• Undergraduate Academic Brochure. These brochures provide detailed information about UMUC majors in the following areas: Business and Management; Communication, Arts and Humanities, Computing; Fire Science; Legal Studies; and The Sciences.

Next: Decide Among Your Best Options