Those considering a degree in accounting, economics or finance may be interested in pursuing a career in compliance, where qualified graduates are in high demand. According to New Design World, compliance officers work in a variety of sectors, from workplace safety to finance and banking. In the financial field, they are mainly responsible for ensuring that corporations, banks and companies operate within the fiscal regulations set out by local, state and federal legislatures. This can involve evaluating risk, identifying and analyzing suspicious activities or transactions, and advising their employers on changes in regulations and laws. Compliance officers also have to plan and implement internal compliance policies, deal with anti-money laundering and other banking laws, and liaise with regulatory bodies. According to the site, there is general demand for graduates with bachelor's degrees in accounting, economics and finance, as well as a "great" need for those with master's qualifications. Figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics for 2006 show there were 237,000 compliance officers working in the US in fields other than agriculture, construction, health and safety, and transportation.  |