The Durham College graduating class of 1997 demonstrated the value of a college education in a competitive employment market. In spite of the recent media profile of the youth unemployment crisis, Durham College grads came out with a 95.5 per cent success rate.
According to the college's 1997 graduate survey, 85.9 per cent found work within six months and an additional 9.6 per cent were pursuing further education.
Durham College graduate success can be accredited to such factors as improved labour market, practical work experience built into each program, increased employer activity, professors with relevant work experience, market driven programs and proactively marketing the graduates by Durham College's Career and Employment Services.
"Durham College graduates are job-ready on day one. That's our promise," said Margaret Greenley, Director, Career and Employment Services. "We are known for keeping promises to our students, the community and the employers. Our graduates come out with the technical and employability skills that are required to successfully compete in today's labour market."
Gary Polonsky, President of Durham College attributes this breakthrough to several different reasons. He stated, "Our strategic decisions to adjust our program mix to better reflect the job market is paying off. So is our unique Employer Guarantee. We decided not to sacrifice quality when the cuts hit. In fact, we positioned ourselves to enhance quality and relevance. I'm delighted to have our placement rate leap back to where it was before the recession."
The graduate survey is conducted every November. Complete results of the 1997 survey, along with a labour market analysis and related employment information, are published in the college's Career and Employment Report. To obtain a copy, please call (905) 721-3034 or 1-800-461-0738 after March 25, 1998.
Media Contact:
Alice Lytwynchuk
Public Relations
(905) 721-3111 ext. 2117
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