Community College Graduates Finding Jobs
More Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) graduates are finding jobs according to 1997 statistics. The Community College Graduate Follow-Up Survey Report shows that three out of four graduates (74.6 per cent) who responded to the survey are getting jobs within a year of graduation --up five per cent from 1993.
Education and Culture Minister Robbie Harrison said the report reinforces the great work the NSCC does preparing students to enter the world of work.
"From Yarmouth to Pictou to Sydney, the college offers training in new and growing industries because it works closely with business and industry," Mr. Harrison said. "The college is listening to the needs of employers and training Nova Scotians for jobs in Nova Scotia."
The call centre management program, offered at Halifax campus, is one program whose graduates are in high demand. Established two years ago to answer growing labour market need, it has a 100 per cent employment rate among respondents. Graduates are finding increased opportunities as the market continues to grow and flourish.
Another program in which respondents are experiencing 100 per cent employment is the computerized CNC machining technician program. It is offered at the Institute of Technology campus and Pictou campus locations. The curriculum was recently revamped to cover the use of computerized machinery replacing manual machines. This change created a new demand for these graduates in industries such as precise assembly and manufacturing.
"Businesses are demanding individuals who are highly-skilled, versatile and possess broad technical knowledge," said Jack Buckley, president of the NSCC. "Today's economy requires each of us to continually learn and update our skills. Whether you are graduating from high school and looking for a career path, a member of the workforce in need of upgrading or in search of a new career, the NSCC provides the training you need to meet your goals."
More than 7,000 full-time and 13,000 part-time students are enrolled in the NSCC at 13 campuses throughout the province. Students can choose from 137 full-time core programs, ranging from academic upgrading to computer technology, as well as continuing education and customized training programs.