Current Conditions

Your work prospects are rated GOOD because:

	Employement grew at an above-average rate.
	The retirement rate is above average, and the number of retiring workers contributes to job openings.
	Hourly wages ($20.50) are close to the average ($18.07), and the rate of wage growth is above average.
	The unemployment rate (2%) is close to the 2004 average (7%).

Work Prospects

How the ratings are determined.

Outlook To 2009

Your work prospects will continue to be GOOD because:

	The employment growth rate will likely be above average because of ongoing trends--increased government funding for health/social services, and an aging population requiring more services.
	The retirement rate will likely be above average and the number of retiring workers should contribute to job openings.
	The number of job seekers will likely match the number of job openings.

Preparing for the Competition

	You'll be competing with recent graduates.
	You'll need to develop good research skills to keep up to date in your field.