Nine Top Jobs for New Grads in 2006 - by Kate Lorenz, CareerBuilder.com Editor

Graduation is right around the corner for many college students and once the ceremonies end with the last graduate receiving a diploma and exiting the stage, the true journey begins. Now the focus shifts from class schedules to scheduling interviews.

Job prospects for new college graduates look encouraging, as employers plan to hire 14.5 percent more new college grads this year than last year, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). In addition, new grads can expect to collect higher starting salaries this year.

So what jobs are most in demand? Here are the top jobs for 2005-06 bachelor's degree graduates according to NACE's Winter 2006 Salary Survey:

1. Private Accounting
You can perform accounting functions in an in-house accounting department for any organization. Pick an industry you have an interest in. If you like to cook, join the accounting staff of a food service or restaurant chain. If shopping is your passion, consider the retail sector. Or you can join a personal accounting firm that provides tax services to individuals.

Average Starting Salary: $44,111

2. Management Trainee (Entry-Level Management)
There are many opportunities for a professional management career. Whether you choose sales, marketing or general administration, management careers are in demand.

Average Starting Salary: $38,790

3. Sales
This is an area where you can go to just about any industry. If you like sports, seek out positions with the sales force of a sports equipment company. If animals are your thing, think agriculture or veterinarian animal products. A company usually will provide their sales team with extensive training so they can learn all about the company's products as well as successful sales techniques.

Average Starting Salary: $38,402

4. Design/Construction Engineering
There are many construction management firms that oversee the zoning, design, permitting and construction of various projects. With a few years experience, you could end up a project director for the next big building project in your city.

Average Starting Salary: $47,986

5. Financial/Treasury Analysis
Financial analysts work for banks, insurance companies, mutual and pension funds, and other businesses to help companies and their clients make investment decisions. Earning a professional industry designation will make you even more desirable.

Average Starting Salary: $46,138

6. Public Accounting
Head toward the Big Four accounting firms and be prepared to take the Certified Public Accounting exam. Most public accounting firms encourage their associates to hold this certification. Public accountants perform a broad range of accounting, auditing, tax and consulting activities for corporations, government and other organizations.

Average Starting Salary: $44,287

7. Project Engineering
There are many different types of engineers and therefore lots of opportunities in the broad engineering field. Whether it's chemical, computer, civil, mechanical or electrical, assisting on a project team lead to a number of future opportunities. Your internship experience will be a big plus in this segment.

Average Starting Salary: $49,653

8. Teaching
This is a great job that almost guarantees you a position no matter where you live or move in the future. And the work can be very rewarding and can offer great retirement benefits. Continue your education to the masters or doctorate level and watch your pay grow!

Average Starting Salary: $29,016

9. Consulting
This is another area where your degree or emphasis can lead to a rewarding career in a variety of areas. For instance, a bachelor's degree in Health Administration can put you on the road to a successful career in health care consulting.

Average Starting Salary: $50,460

Kate Lorenz is the article and advice editor for CareerBuilder.com. She researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues.

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