for Universities
for Employers
Forecasting College Hiring and Career Paths in Trump’s Reelection
With a second Trump term on the horizon, college job seekers could face shifts in funding, hiring trends, and career opportunities. Explore key predictions for the college labor market in the years ahead.
Potential cuts to federal funding: The Trump administration previously proposed reductions in education funding, which may impact resources available to public colleges and universities. These adjustments could reshape campus employment programs, faculty hiring, and overall job availability on campuses.
Higher tuition costs and student debt: Past policies limited federal involvement in setting tuition levels, potentially leading to increased college costs. With higher tuition, students may rely more on loans and part-time work, driving up demand for gig employment, paid internships, and flexible job options.
Expansion of vocational and trade programs: The Trump administration has shown a focus on expanding career-oriented education that doesn’t require a four-year degree. Increased federal support may flow toward vocational programs and apprenticeships, creating more non-traditional pathways and more competition for roles traditionally filled by vocational graduates.
Reduction in international student labor: More restrictive immigration policies may continue to impact work permits and student visas, potentially reducing international student enrollment in U.S. colleges. This shift could affect the availability of skilled labor, especially in STEM and tech fields.
Expanded opportunities for domestic students: Fewer international students in high-demand fields like IT, engineering, and healthcare could create new job prospects for domestic graduates in these areas.
Economic growth initiatives: Policies focused on economic growth through deregulation and tax adjustments could stimulate additional job creation. College graduates may find a stronger job market with expanded roles in sectors such as energy, manufacturing, and construction.
Shifts in workforce needs: Changes in automation, trade, and technology policies could reshape entry-level roles, especially in manufacturing and tech sectors.
Labor wages and protections: Policies favoring reduced union influence and modified labor regulations may impact worker protections, particularly in part-time roles. This could affect minimum wage laws and protections relevant to college students in part-time employment.
Opportunities in the gig economy: Reduced regulation in gig work may create more flexible employment options for students, particularly in time-sensitive roles like rideshare and delivery services.
Shifts in diversity hiring: Policies affecting diversity hiring and affirmative action could influence campus initiatives related to diversity and inclusion. This may lead to restructuring or reductions in programs that employ students in these areas.
Environmental policy changes: Reduced environmental regulations may impact the availability of green energy jobs, a sector that has attracted college job seekers. However, traditional energy sectors like oil and gas could see growth, creating new entry-level positions.
In a second Trump term, college students and recent graduates may encounter both new opportunities and unique challenges. Reduced federal funding and shifts in diversity hiring could affect on-campus roles and resources, while increased support for vocational training and deregulation of the gig economy could broaden job pathways beyond traditional degrees. As policies continue to evolve, career services professionals, students, and employers will need to stay informed and responsive to navigate an increasingly dynamic job market. Graduates who remain adaptable and ready to leverage new opportunities will find themselves best positioned to succeed in the shifting college labor landscape.
