What Is the Difference Between a Job and a Career?
It might be easy to assume there's no difference between a job and a career, but the educational requirements, personal satisfaction and salary opportunities separate the two words. For example, you might hold a job before you complete an education and embark on a career.

Differences in Education Levels
One of the major differences between a job and a career is the amount of education you'll need in obtaining a position. In a career, you'll probably need some type of formal education, whether it's an associate degree or a master's degree. Jobs may not have specific educational requirements. For example, if you wanted to enter a career in finance, you'd most likely need a degree; however, if you wanted to hold a job in retail sales, you could probably do so without meeting such requirements. Many college students take jobs while they're earning the degrees that will let them pursue careers.
Differences in Fulfillment
Sometimes a job is viewed as a means to an end. You might take a job to pay the bills, reduce debt or earn extra cash. A career is generally a vocation that you have chosen to bring a sense of enjoyment, fulfillment or importance. Instead of merely working to make money, having a career can let you find more meaning in the work you do. You will still make money in your chosen career, but this financial gain will be just as important as the satisfaction you'll get from doing your work.
Differences in Advancement Opportunities
When you decide on a career, you will most likely put some thought into your future and your goals. You might decide which position you'd like to eventually hold and what you can do to accomplish this goal. With a job and no education, you are less likely to earn a promotion. This isn't to say that you can't advance in a job. If you find that you are dedicating more time and