For Immediate Release

Contact: John M. Martino
Phone Number:  (215) 895-1186
Date: 05/23/02

The Economy May Be Down, But Healthcare Graduates Are Not Feeling the Dismal Effects

-- A University of the Sciences in Philadelphia Health Tip --

Graduation is just around the corner for thousands of college seniors, but the troubled economy is causing a roadblock of broken dreams and false hope, as potential employment opportunities are dismally scarce.  The job market may seem barren to many students majoring in previous staples, such as business, but it is fruitful to those desiring employment in the healthcare field.  According to many published reports and college career services, available healthcare positions are in abundance for graduating students, even though on-campus recruiting is dramatically declining.  Patricia Peterson, director of career services at University of the Sciences in Philadelphia (USP), says the trend of booming healthcare opportunities is no accident.

"This trend will continue as the graying of America continues," says Peterson.  "All the baby boomers are moving towards pre-retirement and retirement.  People are living longer, they're more concerned about their health and they realize the importance of medication.  There is so much need for healthcare professionals, such as nurses, pharmacists, physical and occupational therapists, medical technologists and physician assistants.  Students majoring in healthcare have so many opportunities in hospitals, medical centers, laboratories, government facilities and the Red Cross."

In the 1980s and 1990s, the two prominent programs students majored in were business and engineering.  A multitude of job prospects awaited them as soon as they received their diplomas.  They could expect high-paying salaries, signing bonuses and many other benefits.  The new century has brought about a change.  The need to care for the increasingly aging population of America has shifted the focus on improving the nation's health.  Healthcare majors are now the ones demanding eye-catching salaries and bonuses.

"Healthcare salaries are above the norm, and are comparable to the salaries engineering and business students were commanding in their heyday," says Peterson.  "The salaries and the entire benefits packages for students in healthcare are outstanding.  The economy may be suffering, but these students are not.

"I don't see an ebb and flow for healthcare employment in the near future," adds Peterson.  "Healthcare is on a roll.  The number of calls I get for healthcare job openings everyday is overwhelming.  It's just an incredible field to get into these days."

To arrange an interview with Patricia Peterson, contact John M. Martino at (215) 895-1186 or e-mail: j.martin@usip.edu.

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