Career Requirements
Learn the education, skills, and training requirements for different careers, plus what employers expect and how you can prepare for roles in a wide range of fields.
Understanding career requirements can make it easier to plan your next steps, whether you’re entering the workforce for the first time or exploring a new direction. Each profession has its own expectations, ranging from short certificates to advanced degrees, and knowing these details upfront can help you stay on track.
Requirements may also shift based on state regulations, employer needs, or industry standards, which makes early research especially useful. A clear overview of typical qualifications can help you compare options and move forward with a plan that supports your long-term goals.
What Most Careers Require
Career requirements usually include a combination of education, skills, and hands-on experience. Some roles rely on short-term training programs, while others call for associate or bachelor’s degrees. A few professions, particularly in healthcare or counseling, may require graduate-level study or supervised clinical hours. Reviewing these expectations early helps you choose the training route that best aligns with your timeline and interests.
Employers also look for practical abilities that aren’t tied to formal degrees. Communication skills, problem-solving, time management, and teamwork often matter just as much as specific technical knowledge. Many entry-level roles allow you to build these abilities on the job, making them accessible even if you're just starting out.
Career-Specific Credentials and Licenses
Certain fields require additional credentials beyond a diploma or degree. Industry certifications can show employers that you’ve mastered key concepts or technical skills, especially in areas like information technology, business, healthcare, and project management. These certifications often involve preparing for and passing a standardized exam, and some can be completed online.
Licensing requirements are common in regulated professions. Teachers, real estate agents, nurses, electricians, and many other professionals must meet state-specific guidelines before they can work independently. These may include background checks, examinations, or continuing education courses to maintain active licensure. Checking local requirements ensures you understand what’s needed in your state or region.
How to Prepare for Career Requirements
Preparing for a new career often involves more than earning the required credential. Internships, apprenticeships, clinical experiences, or volunteer work can provide valuable exposure to real workplace settings. These opportunities help you build confidence, strengthen your résumé, and demonstrate commitment to the field you’re pursuing.
It’s also helpful to stay aware of tools and technologies used in your industry. Many online courses offer introductory lessons in software, equipment, or job-specific processes, giving you a head start before applying to roles. Networking with professionals, joining industry groups, or speaking with mentors can provide additional guidance as you move forward.
Explore Career Requirements Across Fields
The articles below outline training expectations, education levels, and qualification pathways for a variety of professions. These resources can help you compare different fields and identify the requirements that align with your interests and career plans.
Teaching aides can be integral in helping teachers carry out their duties in the classroom. These aides are generally expected to support teachers by supervising students, reinforcing lessons that have been taught and maintaining attendance. In Arizona, these professionals need to meet education or exam requirements before they can qualify for employment.
As a teacher in Arizona, you have the choice of working in one of the state's charter schools. This overview will help guide you through the process of becoming a charter school teacher.
Learn about the steps required to become a preschool teacher in Arizona. Read to get the facts on education requirements, mandatory examinations, and pathways to certification in the state.
Arkansas' various alternative certification pathways allow people to teach in public, private, and/or charter schools in a wide variety of subject areas and grade levels. Keep reading for details about each type of alternative certification program.
Prospective teachers in Arizona who have not followed the traditional path to certification may apply for an alternative teaching certificate. Read on for information on how to obtain an Alternative Teaching Certificate in Arizona.
Arkansas employs special education teachers at all grade levels. Interested individuals can gain a better understanding of the certification process with this guide.
Teachers in the state of Arkansas may renew their standard teaching license through completion of a set number of professional development courses and hours during their employment. Keep reading to learn more details.
Read for an overview of the five certifications available for special education teachers in Arizona. Get the facts on required education, examinations, and salary expectations.
The state of Arizona has five different certifications for special education teachers. Read for an overview on these certifications and the education, examination, and continuing education requirements.
Explore the highest demand teaching jobs. Learn which subject areas face shortages, why new teachers are needed, and how schools fill critical positions.
How long does it take to become a lawyer? Before entering this profession, students must complete undergraduate and graduate programs and pass the bar exam. Read on for specifics on how to become a lawyer.