Unlocking Opportunities: Career Options with a GED Diploma

A GED diploma, sometimes referred to as a GED certificate, can open the door to college and career opportunities. Over 20 million people have earned a GED certificate since the GED program began in 1942. This article explores the various career paths accessible to GED diploma holders, providing valuable information to help you accomplish your career goals.

The Value of a GED Diploma

A GED diploma is equivalent to a traditional high school diploma and certifies that the holder has achieved the same level of academic proficiency. Earning a GED certificate can help graduates land jobs in a variety of fields. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, people who hold either a high school or GED diploma made a median annual salary of $39,070 in 2020, while those without either of these credentials made $27,510 a year.

Equalizing Opportunities

A GED diploma provides individuals who did not complete high school with a second chance to obtain a recognized credential. For different reasons, many of today’s students have dealt with interruptions in their education. A GED diploma is equivalent to a high school diploma. It offers more opportunities than not having a diploma at all.

Demonstrating Academic Competency

Employers value candidates who demonstrate competency in essential academic skills such as reading, writing, and mathematics. GED test-takers must earn certain scores in each subject to earn their diploma. High scores on the GED test may also help test-takers get a waiver from college placement tests or qualify for college credit.

Signaling Motivation and Determination

Pursuing and obtaining a GED diploma requires dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to self-improvement. Letting prospective employers know you recently received your GED shows aptitude, determination, and hard work.

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Pathway to Further Education

A GED certificate serves as a gateway to higher education and advanced training programs. GED certificate-holders can go on to earn undergraduate and advanced degrees.

College Opportunities with a GED

GED diploma-holders can apply to college, including community colleges and four-year universities, or other training programs. Colleges want to know that applicants can successfully complete an advanced education. GED diploma-holders can apply as first-year applicants or transfer students if they’ve already earned some college credits.

College Acceptance

Colleges, including Ivy League schools like Harvard and Yale, accept an applicant’s GED certificate, just as they do a high school diploma. Colleges accept the GED certificate, according to the GED Testing Service. This includes community colleges, vocational schools, private universities, and public universities.

Admission Requirements

Each school and program has its own admission requirements. Applicants should do research to see what requirements and supplemental materials they need to apply. Some schools and competitive programs, such as programs that prepare students for nursing careers, require you to have a minimum GED test score or some prior college credit. Other institutions require applicants who hold a GED diploma to take additional placement tests.

Online Learning

College students can study online or in person after earning a GED certificate. Since May 2020, students have been able to take the Online Proctored GED Test. The test is taken remotely under the supervision of an online proctor. Online testing remains available since the COVID-19 pandemic has affected many in-person testing sites. Among the requirements to qualify for an online test, applicants must live in participating states and earn a Green score after completing a GED practice test.

Career Fields to Explore with a GED

A GED can help you get a job you’re passionate about and provide more financial stability. With a GED, you can earn an average of $10,000 more per year and join an industry with terrific growth potential. GED graduates have the same rights, privileges, and opportunities as traditional high school graduates.

Healthcare

Jobs in healthcare are not only on the rise; individuals working in this field have the added benefit of knowing they are providing valuable care for others. A GED can open the door to entry-level medical roles and afford unlimited earning potential with additional training and certification. Healthcare is a massive industry and one of the top employers in the country. With your GED, the average annual pay ranges anywhere from $29,430 to $37,570.

Nursing Assistants

Nursing assistants are essential to the healthcare system. They support registered nurses and licensed practical nurses in the care of patients. They assist with daily activities such as feeding and bathing while monitoring vital signs and reporting any changes to the nursing staff. Nursing assistants must be caring, compassionate, and dedicated to their work. Qualified nursing assistants are in demand, and the need is expected to grow by 5-7% in the next ten years.

Home Health Aides

The need for home health aides is booming! These professionals work to provide daily support to patients requiring follow-up care and assistance in their homes. Home health aides help with mobility, administer medications, and improve the quality of life for those they serve. Some states require certification, which involves passing a competency exam. Healthcare and personal care aides typically assist patients or clients with daily activities in an assisted living facility or home.

Phlebotomists

Phlebotomists are essential to the healthcare industry. They draw blood, label and store samples, and perform tasks crucial for medical diagnosis, blood and plasma donation, and research. Phlebotomists must follow strict safety standards and show great attention to detail. They work in clinics, labs, and hospitals, earning between $30,000 to $40,000 per year. Consider certification.

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Government and Public Service

Government employees and public service workers are key to thriving communities and economies. Support professionals in government and public service perform a wide variety of jobs to ensure the safety and welfare of all citizens. GED graduates working in government and public service roles enjoy financial stability as well as pride in knowing their efforts contribute to a better society.

Corrections Officers

Corrections officers work to keep order and security within correctional facilities. These professionals oversee inmates, enforce rules, and help to ensure the safety of inmates and staff. Individuals working in correction need solid communication skills, strong ethical standards, and the ability to act quickly. They must respect the law and have the desire to promote order and general welfare. The expected salary for a corrections officer can vary significantly based on specific location and the type of institution. Average salaries in the protection field range from $31,470 to $59,380. Protection officers ensure the safety of others. They perform these roles in a variety of settings, and it typically involves being armed and/or preventing crime.

Postal Workers

Through rain, sleet, and snow, postal workers have the important task of ensuring communication within our communities, nation, and world runs smoothly and efficiently. With an average salary of $40,000 to $60,000 annually, postal workers enjoy a stable income, consistent hiring trends, and confidence in knowing their work is essential.

Social and Human Services Assistants

Social and human services assistants give life-changing support to people and families in need. From housing and government assistance to essential resources and access to outreach programs, these professionals connect challenged individuals with the help and encouragement needed to be self-sufficient. The demand for social and human services assistants is growing at an above-average rate of 11% nationally. The average annual salary for someone with a GED in community or social service professions is $37,610. Community and social service workers help people struggling with personal issues. They also help people navigate through different local services.

Office and Administration

A GED can lay a terrific foundation for an office or administrative position. Candidates with strong writing, communication, and computer skills enjoy various well-paying business-related roles across a number of industries. With an annual salary of $29,950 to $51,730, these jobs offer a professional office environment for someone who can read, write, and use a computer. You can expect to manage day-to-day responsibilities in these roles.

Administrative Assistants

With an earning potential of $40,000-$50,000 annually, administrative assistants help to ensure a business runs smoothly. They support managers and co-workers by coordinating meetings, keeping schedules, planning events, organizing and protecting confidential documents, and overseeing daily activities to facilitate the company's or institution's success. The demand for these professionals is steady because administrative assistants are needed in many fields.

Bank Tellers

Bank Tellers are the first face of any financial institution. These customer service-driven individuals exercise care and professionalism as they assist with various financial transactions. Tellers help bank customers make deposits, withdraw cash, and monitor checking and savings account balances. On average, bank tellers earn between $25,000 and $35,000. Strong math skills and experience handling money are encouraged. The ability to work in a fast-paced environment is also a plus.

Receptionists and Information Clerks

Do you enjoy talking to people and connecting them to important information and services? If so, your GED can prepare you for a job as a receptionist or information clerk. Often the initial point of contact for customers and clients, professionals in this role are vital to maintaining the reputation of an organization or business. This may include greeting guests, answering questions, scheduling appointments, and connecting clients to additional services.

Sales Support

Sales support is essential to commerce and economic development. Hardworking, motivated individuals with an entrepreneurial spirit may find an inspiring career in sales and sales support. Sales positions attract people with an inner drive and outgoing personality. These professionals find themselves valued by corporations who make money from selling goods and services. Sales representatives make between $27,260 and $52,340 per year.

Insurance Sales Agents

A strong growth rate of 4%-7% and a median salary above $50,000 make insurance sales opportunities an excellent option for GED graduates. Insurance sales agents provide valuable guidance and recommendations for individuals and businesses needing home, auto, or corporate insurance. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are a must for these roles.

Manufacturing Sales Representatives

Another growing area of commerce is manufacturing sales. The need for wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives is set to grow by 7% in the next five to ten years, with representatives earning upwards of $60,000. Manufacturing sales reps help to link supply and demand by promoting and selling a wide range of products. Communication and negotiation skills are highly valued in this role.

Retail Sales

The retail market is an excellent business area for GED graduates to build valuable sales skills. Open opportunities are abundant with in-person and online positions available anywhere goods are bought and sold. Annual salaries hover around $30,000 annually, with a steady growth rate for future positions.

Transportation

Opportunities for GED graduates within the transportation industry are abundant. Transit services are crucial to a thriving society and economy, often called the backbone of national and global connections. Including the movement of people, goods, services, and information, transportation roles span roadways and railways and airports and harbors. The average annual salary for a job in this industry is anywhere from $36,660 to $64,150. Transportation involves working in fields that move passengers to and from planes, trains, buses, and other modes of transportation. You might even move cargo or goods.

Trucking Industry

Supply chains and economies could not keep moving without the trucking industry. From operating heavy vehicles like tractor-trailers and 18-wheelers to driving moving vans and delivery trucks, these valuable professionals ensure that people and goods arrive safely and on time. GED graduates who hope to work outside of a typical office environment with good communication skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety make excellent candidates for opportunities in trucking. The trucking industry offers an attractive financial package with an average salary range of $40,000 to $70,000 based on specific vehicles, locations, and routes.

Freight Forwarders

A freight forwarder performs many functions in moving goods across borders from producers to consumers. In coordination with shipping companies and customs officials, freight forwarders use several modes of transportation to move products from place to place. Freight professionals must be skilled in logistics, understand and adhere to strict customs standards, and comply with all laws and insurance requirements. Communication, time management, and organizational skills are top qualities for individuals hoping to work in the freight industry.

Air Traffic Controllers

As aircraft navigate runways, airports, and the skies above, air traffic controllers are on the job to maintain the safety of pilots, crew, passengers, and ground personnel. These highly trained professionals manage traffic flow and work to prevent tragic collisions. Fast-paced, often stressful air traffic control towers need individuals with above-average problem-solving skills, logistical expertise, and flexibility. GED graduates should expect the need for intense training and additional education to work in this field.

Hospitality and Food & Beverage

The quick-moving hospitality industry offers a wide range of exciting career opportunities post-GED. From local entertainment and dining establishments to tourist-driven vacation destinations, the need for welcoming, customer service-driven professionals is vital. Hospitality income is essential to both small towns and large, urban economies. Food service workers make between $25,980 and $50,160. Restaurants and catering businesses often don’t require proof of graduation or GED, so you may stand out from the rest if you’ve earned yours. Food servers and preparation workers ensure work areas operate according to strict cleanliness and sanitation regulations.

Food and Beverage Managers

Food and Beverage Managers are the heart of the hospitality industry. They can work in restaurants, hotels, cruise ships, catering companies, etc. F&B managers coordinate staff, manage schedules, create relationships with vendors, and oversee the quality of food and beverages for all guests. These professionals work to keep safety and experience standards high to maintain customer satisfaction and create a loyal following of visitors. GED graduates entering the busy world of food and beverage need to have a high level of patience, attention to detail, and a desire to provide outstanding customer service. Communication skills and organization and leadership skills are also vital to this role.

Concierges

With a higher-than-average growth rate, the demand for concierges is set to increase by more than 11% in the next five to ten years. These knowledgeable and resourceful professionals perform various services in hotels, resorts, and high-end residential facilities. You may also find them coordinating conferences and trade shows. Tasked with creating an outstanding guest, resident, or participant experience, the daily activities of a concierge can include finding and booking dinner reservations, arranging valet and car services, planning and coordinating entertainment experiences, and providing local recommendations for services. Individuals seeking concierge positions should have innate patience, the desire to create quality customer experiences, and the ability to network with many vendors. Communication, critical thinking, and creative skills are assets in this role.

Flight Attendants

The aviation industry thrives on both safety and hospitality. Flight attendants must uphold each of these priorities. From a hospitality perspective, they work to improve passenger comfort, serve food and beverages, facilitate entertainment services, and answer travel questions. Safety procedures are also top of mind for flight attendants as they explain emergency plans, address passenger medical needs, and follow strict security protocols. Their dedication to excellent customer service and ability to stay calm under pressure make these professionals essential to the travel and airline industries. The future for fight attendants is bright! The need for these important professionals is set to increase by over 11% in the next few years and boasts an impressive earning potential of $60,000 to $65,000 annually.

Skilled Trades

Trade jobs are on the rise! Spanning a wide range of industries and specialties, the need for tradespeople has exploded as urban and technological development reaches unprecedented levels. Highly competitive salaries and unmatched benefits accompany this growth. Upon obtaining a GED, trade candidates stand to not only gain financial rewards but also the confidence in knowing their expertise is contributing to essential services in their communities. The average annual salary for a job in this industry is anywhere from $36,660 to $64,150.

Welders

Skilled welders work in a number of industries. Their expertise is needed in manufacturing, construction, automotive, and engineering projects. Welders harness the power of heat and metal to create and secure buildings, machines, and vehicles used every day. Welding is a promising career path for individuals who want to learn and apply an exact and desired skill upon receiving a GED.

Millwrights

Factories, construction sites, and power plants all rely on the skills and contributions of a millwright. Millwrights install, maintain, and repair heavy machinery, industrial devices, and manufacturing equipment. They must be precise and detailed in applying their skills as the safety and proper function of essential systems rest in their hands. Individuals interested in this particular trade must be keen problem solvers, develop the ability to read blueprints and technical instructions and have a strong commitment to excellence in their craft.

Electricians

Electricians set up, maintain, and repair electrical systems for homes and businesses. Safety codes and regulations are top priorities for electricians as they work to troubleshoot electrical problems, remove hazards, or install energy-efficient equipment. GED graduates with an eye for detail, the ability to follow technical manuals, and remedy potential issues and risks are perfect candidates for a career in the electrical industry. Proper electrical work is crucial to creating and maintaining safe, efficient spaces for people to live and work. Construction workers and contractors can earn between $37,520 and $97,860 per year. While this field is vast and ever-expanding, you’ll generally work to build or repair commercial structures or residential homes. You may also take on projects like roads, bridges, and utility systems.

Other Career Options

Arts and Design

Artists find jobs in general arts and crafts or even something specific like floral design. Annual salaries fluctuate depending on where you live and what job you do. Talent and available audiences for your work also matter. Professionals in this line of work can earn between $29,760 and $37,540 per year.

Building and Grounds Cleaning

Building and grounds cleaners keep buildings safe, operational, clean, and sanitary.

Fishing, Forestry, and Farming

You can earn between $29,680 and $46,330 in the fishing, forestry, and farming industries. This work means spending a lot of time outside, working in the elements.

Title Abstractor, Examiner, or Searcher

Professionals in the title abstractor, examiner, or searcher field gather data to review and summarize.

GED vs. High School Diploma

While both GED and high school diplomas are recognized across the United States, it’s a common observation that high school graduates often have an edge when it comes to gaining admission into more educational institutions. A GED can be a quicker path to securing an equivalent to a high school education, particularly for those who can’t commit to the time needed for full-time high school study. Career opportunities linked to both paths also present stark contrasts, as reflected in GED and high school graduate unemployment rates. While GED holders can secure certain entry-level jobs, industries, and employers often lean towards high school graduates, offering them broader and potentially more lucrative career prospects.

Preparing for the GED

The process of obtaining a GED begins with preparing for and taking the GED exam. It covers four areas: language arts, social studies, science, and math. Preparation for the GED can be done at your own pace and often online, making it a convenient option for those who are working full-time or balancing other commitments.

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