Careers for Holland code ICA

32 careers · typical salary €4,000 gross per month (Netherlands)

The Holland code ICA stands for Investigative, Conventional, and Artistic, three personality traits that describe the kind of work environments and tasks you might enjoy and excel at. This code is part of the RIASEC model, a career assessment system that helps you understand your interests and match them to suitable careers. The first letter, Investigative, is the strongest in this combination, indicating a preference for analytical and scientific activities. Conventional, the second letter, suggests you also appreciate structure, organization, and working with data or details. Artistic, the third letter, shows a creative side that values expression and innovation, even within more methodical roles.

If you identify with the ICA combination, you likely enjoy careers that involve research, problem-solving, and working with complex information, but also want some room for creativity and order. This mix can lead to roles where you analyze data or phenomena, organize findings, and present them in novel or visually engaging ways. The ICA code is less common than some others, but it reflects a unique blend of thinking styles that can open doors to specialized and rewarding careers.

On this page, you will find 32 careers that fit the ICA code. Most of these careers require higher education, with 31 of them accessible through applied bachelor's programs and 29 through university studies. A smaller number, 4 careers, can be entered via vocational training. These careers mostly fall under the Investigative type, emphasizing research and scientific inquiry.

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All 32 careers

What is the work like?

Work that suits the ICA personality involves a combination of investigative tasks, such as analyzing data, conducting experiments, or studying complex systems, along with conventional tasks like organizing information, maintaining records, or following established procedures. You might find yourself working in labs, offices, or research institutions where precision and accuracy are important.

At the same time, your artistic side means you enjoy opportunities to think creatively, whether that’s designing experiments, visualizing data in new ways, or communicating findings through writing or presentations. Careers like Archivist or Urban Planning Engineer combine systematic work with creative problem-solving. You may also work independently or as part of a team, depending on the role, but you typically value clear goals and structured environments that allow you to focus on detailed and meaningful work.

Who fits these careers?

If your strongest trait is Investigative, you are curious and enjoy exploring how things work. You like to solve problems using logic and scientific methods. The Conventional trait means you appreciate order, rules, and working with data or systems that have clear procedures. The Artistic trait adds a preference for creative expression and originality, even in structured settings.

Together, these traits suggest you are a thinker who likes to understand complex information and present it in innovative ways while following certain rules or frameworks. You may enjoy research, data analysis, and designing new approaches that require both precision and creativity. This combination can help you thrive in careers that demand both analytical skills and an eye for design or communication.

Education and route

Most careers that fit the ICA code require education at the applied bachelor's (HBO) or university (WO) level. For example, becoming a Biochemist, Molecular Biologist, or Medical Scientist typically involves completing a university degree in a relevant scientific field. These programs focus on research methods, scientific theory, and practical laboratory skills.

A few careers can be entered through vocational training (MBO) or a combination of vocational and applied bachelor's education. For instance, becoming a Genealogist or Cartographic Assistant may start with vocational training, sometimes complemented by further studies. Applied bachelor's programs often combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience, preparing you for roles that require both scientific understanding and organizational skills.

Salary

Typical salaries for careers matching the ICA code in the Netherlands range around €4,000 gross per month. Starting salaries tend to be lower, beginning at about €3,100, especially for entry-level positions or those requiring vocational training. With experience and specialization, salaries can increase to around €5,200 or higher in some roles.

For example, an Archivist or Biomedical Scientist may earn between €3,200 and €5,200 gross monthly, depending on education and experience. Astronomers and Web Developers can have starting salaries near €3,500 and €3,100, respectively, with potential to grow beyond €5,200. These figures are indicative and reflect the median salary range for these careers in the Dutch labor market.

Tips for choosing

  • Explore science and research subjects during your studies to build a strong foundation for investigative careers.
  • Consider combining your interest in structure and creativity by developing skills in data visualization or scientific communication.
  • Look for internships or projects that allow you to work with both analytical tasks and creative problem-solving.
  • Research the educational requirements for your preferred careers early, so you can plan your studies accordingly.
  • Stay open to careers that blend different fields, such as biomedical science or urban planning, which fit the ICA profile well.

See also

Frequently asked questions

What does the ICA Holland code mean?

The ICA code stands for Investigative, Conventional, and Artistic personality traits. It describes people who enjoy analytical and scientific work (Investigative), appreciate structure and organization (Conventional), and have a creative side (Artistic). This combination guides you to careers that involve research, data management, and creative problem-solving.

Which education levels are needed for ICA careers?

Most ICA careers require applied bachelor's (HBO) or university (WO) degrees. A few can be entered with vocational training (MBO). The choice depends on the specific career, but scientific and research roles typically need higher education.

What kind of work environments suit ICA types?

ICA types usually prefer structured environments where they can focus on detailed and analytical tasks. They also enjoy some creative freedom, such as designing experiments or presenting data in innovative ways. Labs, offices, and research centers are common workplaces.

What is the typical salary for ICA careers in the Netherlands?

Typical gross monthly salaries for ICA careers are around €4,000, with starting salaries near €3,100 and experienced roles paying up to about €5,200. Salaries vary depending on the career, education level, and experience.

Can I pursue a career in science if I have an ICA code?

Yes, many ICA careers are in science and research fields, such as Biochemist, Molecular Biologist, or Medical Scientist. Your investigative trait supports scientific work, while your conventional and artistic traits help you organize and creatively present your findings.