Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
Section 1-2 Career Planning 19
doctorate, often requires several years of additional
study beyond a master’s degree.
To fi nd out about schools that offer the education
and training you desire, talk with your guidance
counselor. You may also want to explore schools of
interest online.
Your counselor can help you fi nd high school
courses that earn credit toward a college program
that suits your career direction. This will help you
reach your career goals more quickly.
Certifi cation and Licensing
Occupations that deal with people’s lives,
health, or safety often require certifi cation or a
license. Certifi cation is a special standing within
a profession as a result of meeting specifi c
requirements. A license is a work requirement set by
a government agency. Licensing requirements are
similar or identical to the certifi cation requirements,
but carry the force of law.
Certifi cation and licensing usually require the
following:
•
completion of an acceptable program of study
•
minimum level of education or degree(s)
•
completion of an internship and/or on-the-job
experience
•
minimum grade or score on a national exam
•
continuing education
Certifi cates and licenses usually have expiration dates. Professionals
may need to renew their credentials every few years.
Many professions require a commitment to lifelong learning.
Continuing education even after a degree, certifi cate, or license is earned
is called lifelong learning. Professionals often need to continue to learn
and study to advance in their career or to keep up with their career
and industry. Lifelong learning is a commitment to furthering your
education and expertise.
The Employment Outlook
Knowing the future need for various occupations is important to
your career research. The U.S. Department of Labor studies job trends
and forecasts the employer demand for occupations in 10 years. New
technologies are creating new jobs while making some traditional jobs
obsolete.
Check the outlook for the occupations you are considering. For
example, will there be more, about the same, or fewer jobs that need
1-7
On the job, apprentices
learn from a supervisor or
skilled worker.