Research Careers
Taking time to research careers and occupations not only gives you an idea of what job outlook and salary information to expect, it also helps you know what kind of training, qualifications or credentials are required, what are the best careers in the places you want to work and more. Below is a selection of self-serve databases, tools and resources to help you explore career options.
Career & Occupational Research
Use these resources to conduct general research on different jobs or occupations.
Occupational Outlook Handbook
This guide by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has information about jobs like typical duties, work environment, education, salaries and job outlook.
O*NET OnLine
O*NET OnLine is a tool for career exploration and job analysis sponsored by the U.S. Dept. of Labor. It has detailed descriptions of the world of work.
Career Clusters
Career clusters identify pathways from secondary school to two- and four-year colleges, graduate school, and the workplace, so students can learn in school and what they can do in the future.
CareerOneStop Toolkit
Profiles of over 750 specific occupations, including salary information by state and county. This site also has Career Videos On-Line.
Employment Projections
Often times, students might wonder about career trends and what jobs are in highest demand. Here are some resources to help you research employment projections and trends:
Workforce Projections
The U.S. Dept. of Labor sponsors this nationally recognized source of objective, data-driven projections of future state and local workforce needs. It provides both long- and short-term projected employment growth for occupations among various states.
U.S. Labor Statistics
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is our federal government's main labor statistics fact-finding agency. It measures labor market activity, working conditions, salary changes, and productivity and publishes these employment projection resources.
WisConomy
Use WisConomy's data tools and visual dashboards to access Wisconsin labor market information, job numbers, wages, hot jobs, industry and occupation projections. This site is published by the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.
Need Help?
It's fantastic that you're researching careers. No doubt you have questions about what all this means to you. If your occupational research has taken you to a point that you're ready to talk to an advisor, just call the office or schedule an appointment through Navigate.