Discussion Paper

Careers Evolve but Majors Matter: Career Pathways and College Majors in Virginia

Abstract: Choosing a major and a type of degree is an important decision. Presumably, students choose a major that is both interesting to them and that aligns with what they want to do post-graduation. Students commonly assume that certain fields of study offer pathways to particular jobs or industries, or that an advanced degree will open up greater opportunities or put them on a fast track to a more senior position, like management. Some recently released data from the Virginia Office of Education Economics (VOEE), a division of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, show that this is largely true: Majors do matter, and advanced degrees can offer a fast track.

Keywords: Education; Workforce Development;

Bibliographic Information

Provider: Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond

Part of Series: Regional Matters

Publication Date: 2024-11-14