Deciding what to study abroad is never an easy decision to make. Thinking about what career to pursue when you graduate can be equally difficult. The good news is that today there are a much wider range of careers and jobs to consider than there were 10 years ago. The pathways to these new careers are many and varied which means that whatever the subject you choose to study could lead you to one of them.
We give you an overview of the 5 in-demand jobs of today that weren’t around a decade ago. You’ll discover what the entry requirements are and how much you could earn. Read on.
1. Influencer
Perhaps not the first career that comes to mind when considering graduate career options, but one that can lead to fame and fortune. Influencers promote brands and products to on their social media platforms. They range from what is known as a mega-influencer (1 million plus followers) to a micro-influencer (5,000-100,000 followers).
Influencers also known as content creators, create relevant and engaging content for their clients, they make money through sponsored content, marketing and brand partnerships.
What qualifications do you need to become an Influencer?
Although technically you don’t need a degree to become an influencer, it certainly helps you as a professional if you are aware of business, finance and digital marketing, There are now undergraduate degrees in social media or social media marketing you could consider.
How much do Influencers earn?
The answer to this question obviously depends on the type of influencer you are and the brands and companies you represent. Below is just a rough guide of average influencer earnings around the world:
- UK - GBP 32,790
- US - USD 63,284
- Australia - AUD 91,010
*Correct at time of writing. Indeed.com
2. Social media manager
According to Smart Insights in January 2023, 4.76 billion of the world’s population were active social media users. That's 137 million more than in the previous year. With an average of two and a half hours per day spent on 7.2 platforms each month, the need for social media managers is growing.
Social media managers develop and oversee social media strategies to increase followers and engagement. They manage content creation, analyse data and create campaigns among many things.
What qualifications do you need to become a social media manager?
All medium to large companies now have their own social media department which require social media managers. When applying for these kinds of roles, some employers may expect you to have a degree in a relevant subject such as:
- advertising
- marketing and public relations
- digital and social media marketing
- internet design
- journalism
- business management
How much do social media managers earn?
Below you will find an idea of the average salaries earned around the world:
GBP 33,079
USD 56,903
AUD 83,998
*Correct at time of writing. Indeed.com
3. App developers
Apps have transformed the way we use information, saving us time and creating a smooth and sophisticated experience. This wouldn’t be the case without dedicated app developers. These professionals use code to create apps, working with app designers and user experience teams. Most app developers will need to have a background in computer science with specializations often required at master’s level. With such a rapid demand for apps, there’s no telling where this sector could go, and which jobs might surface in the next ten years.
What qualifications do you need to become an app developer?
You'll be expected to have a good level of mathematical and technical knowledge to understand programming. Employers may want you to have a degree in a relevant subject, these are many but can include:
- business
- management
- computer science
- software engineering
- applied science
How much do app developers earn?
Below you will find an idea of the average salaries earned around the world:
GBP 42,500
USD 84,187
AUD 101,832
*Correct at time of writing. Indeed.com
4. Cloud solutions architect
With large amount of data needed by all organisations big and small, the need to store and manage data and information through cloud computing systems is essential. Cloud solutions architects are IT specialists who are responsible for managing a company’s cloud computing system and strategy.
The need for these professionals is projected to grow; the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for example, projects a need for a further 682,800 jobs in the industry over the next 10 years.
What qualifications do you need to become a cloud solutions architect?
You will need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computing or relevant subjects such as: cloud computing, computer science, software development, software engineering, programming
Relevant subjects include:
- computer science
- software engineering for business
- programming
- software development
- cloud computing
How much do cloud solutions architects earn?
Below is an overview of the average salaries you could earn around the world.
GBP 82,184
USD 118,496
AUD 160,303
*Correct at time of writing. Glassdoor.com
5. User experience (UX) designer
UX designers use research and data analysis to create software, websites and apps that are enjoyable, accessible and usable for their users. The UX designer works with various stakeholders while always considering what’s best for the user.
Much like other tech-based professions, UX (digital designers) are in demand in the US and the rest of the world.
What qualifications do you need to become a UX designer?
Although not always necessary, a bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject such as :
- computer science
- digital marketing
- digital media
- graphic design
- product design
- web design
An internship or placement will put you at an added advantage over other candidates too.
How much do UX designers earn?
Here’s an idea of the average salaries earned around the world:
GBP 53,845
USD 121,373
AUD 90,750
*Correct at time of writing. Glassdoor.com
There are a huge variety of possible career paths available to you, more so than ever before. If you didn’t find what you were looking for here, you can use our site search tool to find a suitable programme and university, based on your preferences, that could lead you to your dream job.