UCSD Extension announced the 10 most popular career options for college graduates in a study last week. Game development ‘mdash; usually those played online and on mobile phones ‘mdash; topped the list, followed by data mining and embedded engineering.
The list finishes with feature writing for the Web, Geriatric health-care, mobile media ‘mdash; especially graphic designers with animation experience ‘mdash; occupational health and safety, specialized Spanish/English translation in fields such as law, medicine and business, and sustainable business practices.
The study was conducted by the university’s continuing education academic directors based on enrollment trends, an analysis of national employment statistics and discussions with more than 750 business and community advisors.
Data mining has become more prevalent as more businesses search for ways to increase revenues and decrease expenses. Miners are responsible for collecting information about service and product users to help businesses and organizations cater to their customers.
Embedded engineering ‘mdash; such as software design and development ‘mdash; came in at number two in a separate survey published by Jobfox of the top 20 most recession-proof professions.
Computer software engineering isd expected to be among the fastest-growing occupations through 2016, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The bureau also said employment of occupational health and safety specialists and technicians is expected to increase 9 percent by 2016, though U.S. unemployment has reached a 25-year high.