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Ferguson's Careers in Focus books are a valuable career exploration tool for libraries and career centers. Written in an easy-to-understand yet informative style, this series surveys a wide array of commonly held jobs and is arranged into volumes organized by specific industries and interests. Each of these informative books is loaded with up-to-date career information presented in a featured industry article and a selection of detailed professions articles. The information here has been researched, vetted, and analyzed by Ferguson's editors, drawing from government and industry sources, professional groups, news reports, career and job-search resources, and a variety of other sources. For readers making career choices, these books offer a wealth of helpful information and resources.
Each profession article includes:
Quick Facts: a snapshot of important job facts
Overview: briefly introduces duties and responsibilities
History: describes the origins and history of the job
The Job: describes primary and secondary goals and duties
Earnings: discusses salary ranges and typical fringe benefits
Work Environment: looks at typical work conditions and surroundings associated with the job
Exploring: offers suggestions on how to gain experience and knowledge about—or even test drive—a career before making a commitment
Education and Training Requirements: discusses required high school and post-secondary education and training
Certification, Licensing, and Special Requirements: explains recommended and required certifications or prerequisites for the job
Experience, Skills, and Personality Traits: summarizes the personal traits and skills and professional experience needed to get started and succeed
Employer Prospects: gives an overview of typical places of employment and the best ways to land a job
Advancement Prospects: presents an expected career path and how to travel it
Outlook: summarizes the job's potential growth or decline in terms of the general economy and industry projections
Unions and Associations: lists essential and helpful professional groups
Tips for Entry: additional tips for preparing for a career and getting a foot in the door
For More Information: lists organizations that provide career information, networking, and professional development
Sidebars: short features showcasing stats, trivia, and insight about a profession or industry
Careers in Focus: Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology, Third Edition covers 28 jobs, including: