The Average Salary of Government Employees With Bachelor's Degrees

Graduates looking for employment with a federal, state or local governmental organization have a variety of options. While a bachelor's degree opens the door to a variety of different occupations, salaries vary based on type of degree earned and the requirements of each specific position.

Network Systems Analysts

Students with bachelor's degrees in a computer-related field may be employed by the government as network systems analysts, who keep an agency's computer systems running smoothly. In 2008, the average salary for a network systems analyst employed by local governments was about $64,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Parole/Probation Officers

Students with bachelor's degrees in the social sciences may become parole or probation officers for local, state or federal correctional systems. Job opportunities in this field are expected to increase, especially in urban areas, and the median salary for officers employed by state or local governments is approximately $46,000 per year, says the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Accountants and Auditors

Students with a bachelor's degree in accounting can put their knowledge to work in all levels of government. Some government accountants work for specific agencies, managing their financial records, while others may work as IRS agents or budget analysts. Government accountants generally make less than their peers in the private sector, with a median yearly salary of around $52,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

References

• BLS: Computer Network, Systems, and Database Administrators
• BLS: Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists
• BLS: Accountants and Auditors

Resources

• Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-2011 Edition