Retail & Sales

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth in the retail sales sector is likely to keep pace with or exceed growth levels in other industries in the years to come. As older sales professionals retire, there should be openings for jobseekers who would like to enter the field. However, competition for top-level positions and managerial roles is likely to be intense. For that reason, retail and sales degrees can be a good way to set yourself apart from the competition.

Education & Career Opportunities in Retail & Sales

Entry-level retail and sales jobs such as sales clerks or cashiers may be available to individuals without formal training, but those who have completed retail and sales degrees may have more opportunities to become a supervisor or manager. Relevant retail and sales degree programs include sales management, business, marketing, and communications. A degree is likely to be particularly helpful for candidates with the desire to work their way up to managerial positions, or for those seeking a role in technical sales or the sale of luxury or big-ticket products.

In addition to having more responsibility and opportunities for advancement, retail and sales supervisors and managers stood to earn more than retail clerks as well: The median wage for supervisors and managers was $34,900 in 2009, while retail salespersons earned $20,260.