16 Career Clusters to Help You Choose the Right Path
Finding the right career is all about discovering what excites you and aligns with your unique strengths. Imagine doing something you love, something you’re good at, and getting paid for it—sounds like a dream, right? But here’s the challenge: there are thousands of jobs out there. How can you explore career options if you don’t even know what’s available?
That’s where the 16 career clusters come in. Whether you’re a student exploring your future, a professional looking to pivot, or just curious about your options, this guide breaks down each cluster. By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of where your passions might lead.
What Are Career Clusters?
Career clusters form the basis of the National Career Clusters Framework, a system designed to help students and professionals explore career options based on their skills and interests. Think of them as categories that group similar types of work, making it easier to understand the kinds of jobs available in a particular field.
There are 16 unique career clusters, each organized by industry and the nature of the work involved. Within each cluster, you’ll find career pathways that lead to specific jobs. For example, within the health science cluster, you might find career pathways like therapeutic services or biotechnology research, which lead to jobs such as nurse, lab technician, or physical therapist.
While career clusters don’t include every job out there, they cover a wide range of professions, making them a great starting point for narrowing down your options. If you have a general sense of what interests you—like working with animals, solving technical problems, or designing buildings—career clusters can help you turn those interests into a concrete list of job titles to explore.
The 16 Career Clusters
1. Agriculture, food, & natural resources
This cluster revolves around creating, marketing, and distributing agricultural and natural products, such as food, lumber, and plant or animal goods. Jobs in this cluster can range from hands-on roles, like farming, to technical positions, such as environmental engineering.
Many roles require a bachelor’s degree, but some, like farming or park management, can be pursued with a high school diploma and on-the-job training.
There are seven career pathways in this cluster:
- Agribusiness Systems
- Animal Systems
- Environmental Service Systems
- Food Products and Processing Systems
- Natural Resources Systems
- Plant Systems
- Power, Structural, and Technical Systems
Here are some examples of jobs within the agriculture, food, and natural resources cluster:
- Agricultural Chemical Dealer
- Ecologist
- Environmental Field Technician
- Farmer
- Fish and Game Officer
- Health and Safety Sanitarian
- Park Ranger
- Wildlife Manager
- Zoologist
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), agricultural and food scientists are expected to grow by 7% through 2032, reflecting the demand for sustainable farming practices.
2. Architecture & construction
Professionals in this cluster design, build, and maintain infrastructure like homes, skyscrapers, and bridges. Whether you’re interested in the hands-on work of a construction foreman or the creative aspects of interior design, this field has opportunities for all education levels.
This cluster contains three career pathways:
- Construction
- Design/Pre-Construction
- Maintenance/Operations
Some jobs within the architecture and construction cluster include:
- Civil Engineer
- Construction Foreman
- Cost Estimator
- Electrician
- Interior Designer
- Landscape Architect
- Quality Control Inspector
- Revit Technician
- Architectural Designer
- Sheet Metal Mechanic
- Surveyor
Construction and related industries are projected to grow steadily, with the need for new infrastructure and sustainable building practices driving demand for skilled workers. The BLS estimates nearly 167,000 job openings annually for construction laborers alone over the next decade.
3. Arts, A/V technology, & communications
This cluster covers careers in creative industries like film, journalism, and visual arts. If you enjoy storytelling, performing, or working behind the scenes to produce media, you’ll find diverse opportunities here.
This cluster has six career pathways:
- Audio and Visual Technology and Film
- Journalism and Broadcasting
- Performing Arts
- Printing Technology
- Telecommunications
- Visual Arts
This career cluster might be a good fit for you if these job titles sound appealing:
- Actor
- Journalist
- Lighting Designer
- Photographer
- Production Manager
- Publisher
- Screenwriter
- Special Effects Technician
- Technical Writer
- Web Designer
With the rise of digital media, jobs like web designers and content creators have seen increased demand. According to LinkedIn’s Jobs on the Rise 2025 report, digital content creation roles are among the fastest-growing fields.
4. Business management & administration
This cluster focuses on planning, organizing, and managing all aspects of business operations. Whether you’re overseeing a team or analyzing data, careers in this field often involve problem-solving and communication skills.
This career cluster contains five pathways:
- Administrative Support
- Business Information Management
- General Management
- Human Resources Management
- Operations Management
There are a wide variety of positions in this field, including:
- Administrative Assistant
- Account Manager
- Business Analyst
- Chief Operating Officer
- Facilities Manager
- Human Resources Manager
- Public Relations Specialist
- Quality Manager
Business and financial occupations are projected to grow by 7%, with roles like management analysts expected to see 9% growth, according to the BLS. This data reflects the increasing need for professionals who can streamline operations and improve organizational efficiency.
5. Education & training
The education cluster is ideal for those passionate about teaching and shaping the next generation. This includes roles like teachers, administrators, and support staff in schools and educational organizations.
People in this field have a bachelor’s degree and, sometimes, a license in their area of specialization. Higher-level professionals in this cluster may hold a master’s or doctorate degree.
The three career pathways in this cluster are:
- Administration and Administrative Support
- Professional Support Services
- Teaching/Training
Some examples of jobs in this category include:
- Childcare Worker
- Curriculum Developer
- Developmental Psychologist
- Financial Aid Specialist
- Guidance Counselor
- Principal
- Professor
- Superintendent
- Teacher
- Tutor
The BLS predicts 5% growth in education-related jobs over the next decade, with increasing demand for professionals in STEM education and special education.
6. Finance
If you enjoy working with numbers and helping others manage their money, the finance cluster may be a good fit. It encompasses roles in banking, financial planning, and investment management.
It goes without saying that a strong interest in math is a prerequisite to succeed in this field. Most professions require a bachelor’s degree and/or specialized certifications, like a CPA.
The five career pathways in the finance cluster are:
- Accounting
- Banking Services
- Business Finance
- Insurance
- Securities and Investments
Some of the jobs you can get in this sector are:
- Actuary
- Auditor
- Budget Manager
- Controller
- Credit Specialist
- Financial Advisor
- Financial Analyst
- Insurance Claims Examiner
- Loan Officer
- Staff Accountant
- Treasurer
The financial sector is expected to grow by 6% through 2032, with jobs like personal financial advisors growing even faster at 15%. This reflects an increasing demand for financial guidance as people navigate retirement planning and wealth management.
7. Government & public administration
This cluster includes all jobs related to government functioning at the local, state, and federal levels. Careers range from elected officials to public policy advisors and national security experts.
Many jobs in this sector require a bachelor’s degree, while others require an advanced degree, and some can be obtained with a high school diploma.
There are seven career pathways in this cluster:
- Foreign Service
- Governance
- National Security
- Planning
- Public Management and Administration
- Regulation
- Revenue and Taxation
Government jobs bridge a wide range of professions, including:
- Ambassador
- Armed Forces
- City/Town Clerk
- Economic Development Coordinator
- Elected Official
- Equal Opportunity Officer
- Lobbyist
- Political Advisor
According to the BLS, government occupations are projected to grow by 4% through 2032, with increasing demand for roles in public health, environmental policy, and cybersecurity at the federal level.
8. Health science
This cluster spans the vast healthcare industry, covering clinical staff, administrative roles, and medical research professionals. If you’re passionate about improving people’s lives, this might be the field for you. People in this field often start with a bachelor’s degree and go on to earn some of the most advanced degrees available to support their highly technical and impactful work.
This cluster has five pathways:
- Biotechnology Research and Development
- Diagnostic Services
- Health Informatics
- Support Services
- Therapeutic Services
Some examples of careers within this industry include:
- Chiropractor
- Dentist
- Laboratory Analyst
- Medical Assistant
- Medical Coder
- Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
- Pharmacist
- Physician Assistant
- Radiation Therapist
- Registered Dietitian
- Registered Nurse
- Speech-Language Pathologist
The healthcare sector is expected to add over 2 million jobs through 2032, making it the fastest-growing industry in the U.S. The aging population and advances in medical technology drive this rapid growth.
9. Hospitality & tourism
The hospitality and tourism cluster focuses on jobs that create memorable experiences for travelers and guests, from hotel management to tour guides. If you’re energized by customer service and love working in dynamic environments, this might be a great fit.
Many of the jobs within this field do not require a bachelor’s degree but prioritize other skills like strong communication and fluency in multiple languages.
You’ll find four career pathways in this cluster:
- Lodging
- Recreation, Amusements, and Attractions
- Restaurants and Food/Beverage Services
- Travel and Tourism
This cluster may be a fit for you if any of these jobs pique your interest:
- Concierge
- Director of Tourism
- Event Planner
- Front Desk Clerk
- Hotel Manager
- Housekeeper
- Key Holder
- Resort Instructor
- Restaurant Manager
- Tour Guide
- Travel Agent
Hospitality and tourism are rebounding quickly post-pandemic, with global travel and tourism jobs projected to grow 11% annually through 2033, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council.
10. Human services
The human services cluster is centered on helping others meet their personal and social needs. From counseling to personal care, professionals in this field make a direct impact on people’s lives. Passion is a key ingredient for success in this field, along with either a bachelor’s degree and/or certification in your area of specialty.
This career cluster has five distinct pathways:
- Consumer Services
- Counseling and Mental Health Services
- Early Childhood Development and Services
- Family and Community Services
- Personal Care Services
Some of the roles you’ll find in this field are:
- Caregiver
- Esthetician
- Home Health Aide
- Massage Therapist
- Mental Health Counselor
- Mortician
- Personal Trainer
- Religious Leader
- Substance Abuse Counselor
The BLS projects significant growth in this field, particularly for substance abuse and mental health counselors, with jobs expected to grow by 22% through 2032. This reflects an increased emphasis on mental health and addiction recovery support.
11. Information technology
This cluster includes professionals who design, maintain, and secure the digital systems that power businesses and society. If you enjoy problem-solving and keeping up with emerging tech, IT could be for you.
An associate’s or bachelor’s degree is preferred for most jobs, as well as specialized certifications related to your area of expertise.
The four career pathways in the information technology cluster are:
- Information Support and Services
- Network Systems
- Programming and Software Development
- Web and Digital Communications
The diverse professions available in this field include:
- Database Architect
- Computer Programmer
- Information Security Analyst
- Network Administrator
- SEO Manager
- Software Engineer
- Systems Analyst
- Technical Support Specialist
- Web Developer
The demand for IT professionals remains strong, with the BLS projecting a 15% growth rate for jobs in this field through 2032. Cybersecurity roles, in particular, are expected to grow 35%, reflecting the need for skilled workers to combat rising cyber threats.
12. Law, public safety, corrections, & security
Professionals in this cluster work to maintain order, enforce laws, and protect the public. If you’re drawn to justice and public service, there are many career paths to explore here.
Many professions in this field require you to pursue a specialized educational path, like law school for legal careers or training within the police academy for law enforcement jobs.
There are five pathways in this cluster:
- Correction Services
- Emergency and Fire Management Services
- Law Enforcement Services
- Legal Services
- Security and Protective Services
Here’s a selection of the jobs that fall within this category:
- 911 Dispatcher
- Attorney
- Border Patrol Agent
- Corrections Officer
- Detective
- EMT
- Firefighter
- Judge
- Paralegal
- Paramedic
- Police Officer
- Private Investigator
The BLS predicts steady demand for law enforcement and legal professionals, with growth in specialized areas like cybersecurity law and emergency management as public safety needs evolve.
13. Manufacturing
Manufacturing careers focus on producing goods, from raw materials to finished products. If you enjoy working with your hands or solving practical problems, this cluster offers diverse opportunities.
It has six career pathways:
- Health, Safety, and Environmental Assurance
- Logistics and Inventory Control
- Maintenance, Installation, and Repair
- Manufacturing Production Process Development
- Production
- Quality Assurance
A sample of jobs available in this cluster are:
- Assembler
- Forklift Operator
- Machine Operator
- Machinist
- Mechanical Engineer
- Production Manager
- Quality Engineer
- Welder
According to the National Association of Manufacturers, U.S. manufacturing supports 12.6 million jobs and contributes $2.9 trillion to the economy annually. Growth in advanced manufacturing technologies continues to create demand for highly skilled workers in this sector.
14. Marketing
Any business that operates for profit needs a plan to get customers to purchase its goods and services. This is the focus of professionals in the marketing career cluster. They create and execute strategies to promote products, services, and brands. This field blends creativity and data-driven decision-making, making it a great option for versatile thinkers.
The type of education you need will depend on the career pathway you’re most interested in, but for many positions in this cluster, a bachelor’s degree in marketing is a good starting point.
Here are the five pathways in this category:
- Marketing Communications
- Marketing Management
- Marketing Research
- Merchandising
- Professional Sales
Some of the jobs this cluster can help you achieve are:
- Copywriter
- Email Marketing Specialist
- Graphic Designer
- Marketing Analyst
- Media Buyer
- Sales Manager
- Social Media Manager
- Telemarketer
- Web Analytics
Digital marketing roles, especially those involving social media and analytics, are seeing explosive growth. A LinkedIn survey found that digital marketing specialists are among the top 10 in-demand jobs in 2025, reflecting the importance of online engagement in today’s economy.
15. Science, technology, engineering, & mathematics (STEM)
STEM careers focus on innovation, research, and problem-solving in technical fields. If you love discovering how things work and pushing boundaries, STEM offers exciting opportunities.
Professionals in this category have completed advanced levels of education and are often subject to governing bodies within their industry, like state licensing boards.
Careers in this cluster fall into two pathways:
- Engineering and Technology
- Science and Mathematics
If you like the technical work that STEM has to offer, you might be interested in a job like:
- Biostatistician
- Chemical Engineer
- Computer Science Technician
- Data Scientist
- Geophysicist
- Meteorologist
- Nuclear Engineer
- Research Scientist
- Science Teacher
- Statistician
According to the BLS, STEM occupations are projected to grow by 10.8% through 2032, adding over 800,000 new jobs. The increasing reliance on data, technology, and scientific research drives demand for skilled professionals in these fields.
16. Transportation, distribution, & logistics
This cluster focuses on ensuring people and goods get to their destinations efficiently and safely. Careers in this field range from logistics planning to operating vehicles and managing supply chains.
To be successful in this field, you should be detail-oriented and thrive on a schedule, as deadlines play a crucial role in logistics work.
The transportation, distribution, and logistics cluster has seven career pathways:
- Facility and Mobile Equipment Maintenance
- Health, Safety, and Environmental Management
- Logistics Planning and Management Services
- Sales and Service
- Transportation Operations
- Transportation Systems/Infrastructure Planning, Management, and Regulation
- Warehousing and Distribution Center Operations
Some jobs within this category are:
- Air Traffic Controller
- Avionics Technician
- Bus Driver
- Flight Attendant
- Freight Inspector
- Logistics Manager
- Locomotive Engineer
- Pilot
- Rental Clerk
- Seaman
- Shipping and Receiving Clerk
- Transportation Manager
- Warehouse Manager
The global logistics market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5% through 2033, driven by e-commerce and advances in supply chain technology. Jobs in this sector remain in high demand, especially in warehousing and last-mile delivery.
Hopefully, this list has given you a better idea of the wide variety of career options available. Whether you’re passionate about healthcare, technology, education, or something else entirely, the 16 career clusters are a great starting point to identify jobs that align with your interests and skills.
To dive deeper into the career clusters, we highly recommend checking out the official framework at CareerTech.org.
