As a recent college graduate, you are probably aware that you may face some challenges upon entering today’s job market. It’s no secret that young college graduates are experiencing higher unemployment rates than the general population. However, even though they are still high, a 2015 report by Georgetown University showed unemployment rates for recent college graduates are beginning to come down.
In fact, a 2016 report released by the Economic Policy Institute (EPI) stated that the unemployment for young graduates, which are those under the age of 25, is currently 5.6% a lower percentage than what was reported in 2015. The underemployment rate is much higher currently at 12.6%, which includes people who work part time but want full-time work. This could be due to the fact that the majority of those under the age of 25 have not obtained a college degree yet. According to EPI’s report, only 10.1% of those age 17 to 24 have at least a college degree.
When looking at a slightly older age group consisting of those age 24 to 29, the number of people with college degree rises, but they still make up the minority at 34.2%. Access to good, stable jobs is critical for these individuals as they work to create a career path for themselves or save money to pay for more advanced schooling.
Employment May Depend on the Degree You Earn
Choosing a major based solely on interest may not be the best decision for future and current college students. Your college major can play a huge role when it comes to landing a job after graduation. The report by Georgetown, which is based on data from 2011 to 2012, stated that the unemployment rate for recent college graduates in 2012 was 7.5%, but after breaking the unemployment rate down according to major it was easy to see that not all majors give college graduates an equal shot at finding a job. For example, the report showed that the unemployment rate for elementary education majors was just 5.1% and for nursing majors it was only 4.8%.
For college students looking to be hired right after graduation it seems that a career in healthcare is the way to go, according to a number of studies. The Bureau of Labor Statistics claims that healthcare careers are among today’s fastest-growing occupations. Because this sector continues to add jobs, it could be a great fit for recent graduates struggling to find employment. One effective job-search strategy is to investigate healthcare specialties that are in high demand, such as health informatics careers, and then obtain the skills needed to break into the field.
Health Informatics Job Opportunities for College Graduates
Opportunities in health informatics are broad, training is quick and, due to federal mandates requiring all healthcare providers to transition to electronic records, demand is strong as well. Employers across the country are competing for qualified professionals who can gather, analyze and utilize massive amounts of data to help improve patient care.
This means unprecedented opportunities in a variety of healthcare settings, from ambulatory care and physical therapy facilities to hospitals and government agencies. Fortunately, the most in-demand skills can be obtained through programs designed to put college graduates on the fast track to a health informatics career.
Health Informatics Graduate Certificates
Completing a Graduate Certificate in Health Informatics program can provide you with the high level of skill that employers are targeting now. With a comprehensive understanding of electronic medical records and health information systems, you’ll be prepared to enter the job market with marketable skills, and you can do it 100% online.
With a Graduate Certificate in Health Informatics, you will be eligible for solid employment in hospitals, surgical centers, major health centers, clinics, extended-care facilities, and any other healthcare facility where medical records are utilized. Pharmaceutical companies, non-profits and consulting firms also hire health informatics professionals. Flexible schedules, attractive pay, a positive work environment and good benefits are often part of the package when you pursue a career in the growing field of healthcare.
Having Trouble Finding a Job? Check Out Health Informatics
Even if you never imagined working in healthcare, you might find yourself with a solid future in this in-demand industry. Find out if health informatics is a good fit for your skills and interests. It’s an exciting, up-and-coming occupation with plenty of opportunities for long-term success.
*National long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions, and do not guarantee actual job growth. Information provided is not intended to represent a complete list of hiring companies or job titles, and program options do not guarantee career or salary outcomes. Students should conduct independent research for specific employment information.
