Research job market demand

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 139 views

Introduction

As a high school student, choosing a career path can be a daunting task. With numerous options available, it's essential to consider various factors such as interests, skills, and job market demand. In this article, we will explore the major categories of careers and their corresponding average starting salaries in 2014, as presented in the chart below.

Major Categories of Careers

Major Category	2014 Average Starting Salary
Overall	$44,476
Business	$53,000
Healthcare	$44,000
Technology	$55,000
Arts and Design	$35,000
Education	$35,000
Social Sciences	$40,000
Natural Sciences	$45,000
Engineering	$60,000

Understanding the Chart

The chart above provides an overview of the average starting salaries for various career categories in 2014. The data is categorized into nine major groups, each representing a distinct field of study or profession. The average starting salary for each category is listed in the second column.

Business Careers

Business careers are among the most popular and in-demand fields, with an average starting salary of $53,000 in 2014. Some of the most common business careers include:

Management: $60,000 - $80,000 per year
Marketing: $50,000 - $70,000 per year
Finance: $60,000 - $80,000 per year
Human Resources: $50,000 - $70,000 per year

Healthcare Careers

Healthcare careers are another highly sought-after field, with an average starting salary of $44,000 in 2014. Some of the most common healthcare careers include:

Nursing: $50,000 - $70,000 per year
Medical Assisting: $30,000 - $50,000 per year
Dental Hygiene: $50,000 - $70,000 per year
Pharmacy: $80,000 - $100,000 per year

Technology Careers

Technology careers are in high demand, with an average starting salary of $55,000 in 2014. Some of the most common technology careers include:

Software Development: $70,000 - $100,000 per year
Data Analysis: $60,000 - $80,000 per year
Cybersecurity: $80,000 - $100,000 per year
Network Administration: $60,000 - $80,000 per year

Choosing the Right Career Path

With so many career options available, it can be challenging to choose the right path. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:

Reflect on your interests: What subjects do you enjoy learning about? What activities do you find most engaging?
Assess your skills: What are your strengths and weaknesses? What skills do you possess that are in high demand?
Research job market demand: What careers are in high demand? What industries are growing rapidly?
Consider your values: What matters most to you in a career? Do you want to make a difference in people's lives? Do you want to work in a fast-paced environment?

Career Planning Resources

There are many resources available to help you plan your career. Here are a few:

Career counseling: Many high schools and colleges offer career counseling services. These services can help you explore your interests, assess your skills, and research job market demand.
Online career assessments: There are many online career assessments available, such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and the Strong Interest Inventory.
Job market research: Websites such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) provide valuable information on job market demand and salary ranges.

Conclusion

Choosing a career path can be a daunting task, but with the right resources and guidance, you can make an informed decision. By reflecting on your interests, assessing your skills, researching job market demand, and considering your values, you can choose a career that aligns with your goals and aspirations. Remember to stay flexible and open-minded, and don't be afraid to explore different career options before making a decision.

Final Thoughts

Career planning is an ongoing process that requires continuous learning and exploration. By staying up-to-date with industry trends and job market demand, you can make informed decisions about your career and stay ahead of the competition. Remember to always prioritize your interests, skills, and values when choosing a career path, and don't be afraid to seek guidance from career counselors and other professionals.

References

Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). (2014). Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH). (2014). Career Information.
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). (2014). Career Assessment.
Strong Interest Inventory. (2014). Career Assessment.

Additional Resources

National Career Development Association (NCDA). (2014). Career Development Resources.
American Counseling Association (ACA). (2014). Career Counseling Resources.
CareerOneStop. (2014). Career Exploration Tools.

Note: The salary ranges listed in this article are based on national averages and may vary depending on location, industry, and other factors.