Benedictine University: Applicants lack the skills, education to fill jobs in fields that are looking to hire

LISLE, Ill., March 28, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Thousands of American jobs are going unfilled because people are being trained and educated in areas that have little growth or need for new workers, according to national reports comparing job growth, demand, and employee training and education.

Only 5 percent of college graduates in 2012 earned a biological sciences or engineering degree – the latter being the most sought-after major by employers according to a report published in U.S. News & World Report. Shockingly, even in today's technologically-driven society, less than 3 percent of these college graduates earned a computer information systems or computer science degree.

Since the majority of students say the ultimate goal of attending college is to obtain a good job, it makes sense to focus on careers in fields that consistently show strong hiring. Institutions of higher learning like Benedictine University realize the value of focusing on training and educating students in areas that meet business demands. However, getting a job should not be the only focus. Benedictine has a long and rich liberal arts history, and its strong science programs consistently produce graduates who are able to advance in science or health care careers while contributing to society. Students are also drawn to business programs, a trend which directly correlates with a strong demand by employers.

But today, a general business degree isn't enough for employers. The University's business majors are taught to be innovative and garner hands-on experiences through internships, external volunteer programs, and business marketing and development projects. Benedictine's Business Analytics major is in high demand in industries that weigh business decisions largely on data manipulations and forecasting.  

Benedictine recognizes the need to increase and better prepare America's STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) educators. This means training more highly-qualified math and science teachers.  Benedictine's College of Science trains Engineering Science majors. The nation has a demand to fill math, science and special education teacher positions. However, there is an inadequate number of applicants who are properly prepared to assume these roles.

College students need to be reflective when choosing a major – if their aim is to be gainfully employed soon after graduation and to have a sustainable career. Read more at ben.edu/trained.

SOURCE Benedictine University