What programs should I look into where it leads to a remote, hybrid, or in-person job opportunity for possible higher pay and job guarantee after college years?
I have an AS Degree in Physical Science from a community college in Fall 2021. I don't have enough lab experience due to 2020-2022 shutdown. I have been working from home for a company involving data entry from 2021 to now. I am not sure what other career to look into as I am not the same person that wanted a Bachelor's degree due to finances. I am not sure if I should look into 3-12 month programs of a certificate as I don't have experience.
3 answers
Joanna Rose’s Answer
When considering programs that lead to remote, hybrid, or in-person job opportunities with potential for higher pay and job security post-college, focus on fields that are in high demand and adaptable to various working environments. Technology and computer science programs, for instance, often offer extensive remote work opportunities and are in growing demand across industries. Health care and business administration are also robust fields offering a mix of remote and in-person roles, with strong prospects for advancement and stability. Additionally, engaging in programs that offer internships, co-op experiences, or strong industry connections can significantly enhance job placement rates and potential earnings after graduation.
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Emily,
Maximizing Your AS Degree in Physical Science for Varied Career Paths
Your AS Degree in Physical Science is a powerful tool that can open doors to a variety of job opportunities, whether they're remote, hybrid, or traditional in-person roles. Here are some career paths that align well with your academic qualifications:
1. Environmental Science and Sustainability: Your Physical Science background can be instrumental in securing roles in environmental science and sustainability. These roles typically involve research, data analysis, and devising solutions for environmental challenges. Remote positions may be available in consulting companies, government departments, or non-profit organizations focusing on sustainability.
2. Data Analysis and Research: The field of data analysis highly values individuals with robust analytical abilities, a skill set you've likely honed during your Physical Science studies. Roles such as data analyst or research assistant could be a good fit for you. Many organizations offer remote or hybrid work options for these roles.
3. Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Industries: Your AS Degree in Physical Science can also pave the way for opportunities in the healthcare or pharmaceutical fields. Positions like laboratory technician, quality control analyst, or research assistant are common entry points for science graduates. Some roles may require in-person lab work, while others may offer remote options for data analysis and research tasks.
4. Remote Work Platforms: Consider browsing remote work platforms like FlexJobs, Remote.co, or We Work Remotely. These sites compile job listings tailored for remote or flexible work arrangements across various sectors, including science-related fields.
5. Professional Development Courses: To boost your skills and make yourself more attractive to potential employers, consider taking online courses or earning certifications in areas like data analysis, programming languages (like Python), statistical analysis tools (like R), or project management.
By actively exploring these options and aligning opportunities with your interests and skills, you can heighten your chances of landing a job that fits your preference for remote, hybrid, or in-person work settings.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
1. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers extensive data on job outlooks, salary details, and educational prerequisites for various professions. It's a reliable source for understanding job market trends and career prospects for Physical Science degree holders.
2. FlexJobs: FlexJobs is a trusted platform that focuses on listing remote and flexible job opportunities across different sectors. It's a useful resource for those seeking remote work options that match their qualifications.
3. Coursera: Coursera is a global online learning platform offering courses from leading universities and institutions. It's a great resource for those looking to enhance or update their skills in areas relevant to their degree and improve their career prospects.
These sources were used to provide accurate and current information on job opportunities suitable for individuals with an AS Degree in Physical Science looking for remote, hybrid, or traditional in-person roles.
May God bless you!
James Constantine Frangos.
Michelle’s Answer
Working remotely or hybrid can be quite satisfying and the only way you'll know which jobs are hiring that way will be when you read employment ads and they mention it in the job notice. Congratulations on obtaining your Associates Degree in Physical Science !
Some of the fields of work people work in involving physical science are: Zookeeper, Research Technician, Water Resources Engineer, Forensic Science Technician, Surveyor, Urban Planner, Field Geologist, Environmental Science, Ecologist, Biologist, Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Nuclear Engineer and Software Engineer. The issue with these fields of work would be that most would pay well and or require a Bachelors or Masters level employee. Many would demand on site work, also. You would be competing with others applying that have their Bachelors or Masters Degrees.
I'd like to mention that one of your options is to go for your Bachelors Degree. You could get financial aid and scholarships and a work study program that might help you in the way of getting experience. You can start researching scholarships now online as well as at the college you choose. There is a way to cut down on college costs and it would only be for two more years. I advise this because I'm not sure what types of jobs in the field of Physical Science would be at an Associates level. You can also return to the college you received your Associates from and visit the Career Center there to explore this further. I am also not sure if any certifications would compensate without a Bachelors or a Masters Degree. Physical Science is a broad field and certification programs do not appear online when doing a search.
My advice is not to be too apprehensive about going for your Bachelors Degree. Pinpoint exactly which realm of Physical Science you want to work in and major in that. When you obtain your Bachelors Degree, at first, be a bit more open about working on site and it could develop into a hybrid or remote situation. It's too far in advance to know. Getting your Bachelors Degree will more than likely give you the opportunity to get experience, too. So the best advice about a program that you can look into would be at a University at which you could obtain your Bachelors Degree. The CSU system in your state has some of the lower tuitions, so you can begin there with your exploring.
I hope that this is of help and I wish you all the best !