One of the many important purposes and outcomes of your college experience is gaining a combination of knowledge and skills. Two types of skills are essential to employment and to life: content skills and transferable skills. Content skills are intellectual, or “hard,” skills you gain in your academic field. They include writing proficiency, computer literacy, and foreign language skills. Computer literacy is now a core skill like reading, writing, and mathematics. You can apply content skills to jobs in any field or occupation.

Certain types of employers expect extensive knowledge in your academic major before they consider hiring you; for example, to get a job in accounting, you must have knowledge of QuickBooks or of Microsoft Excel’s advanced features. Employers will not train you in basic applications or knowledge related to your field, so remember to be prepared to speak of your qualifications during the interview process. Remember that for most college students, it’s sufficient to have some fundamental knowledge. You will learn on the job as you move from entry-level to advanced positions.

Transferable skills are general skills that can be applied in a lot of settings. Transferable skills give you flexibility in your career planning. For example, volunteer work, community service, involvement in a student organization or club, and having hobbies or interests can all build teamwork, leadership, interpersonal skills, and effective communication abilities. Internships and career-related work can offer you valuable opportunities to practice these skills in the real world. Some transferable skills are listed and described below: