Early-career hiring remains active but increasingly selective, according to Drexel's 2026 College Hiring Outlook
Phys.org
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The 2026 College Hiring Outlook from Drexel University highlights a dynamic job market for early-career professionals, characterized by active hiring but growing selectivity. Despite economic uncertainties tied to inflation, interest rate fluctuations, and trade policies, employers remain focused on recruiting recent graduates, particularly in fields like science and physics. This report underscores the challenges businesses face in navigating these complex economic conditions while seeking top talent.
Economic pressures have significantly shaped the 2025 labor market, leaving the future of hiring in 2026 uncertain. Businesses are adopting more strategic approaches to recruitment, prioritizing skills and qualifications over sheer volume. This shift is especially evident in industries reliant on highly specialized expertise, such as science and physics,
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Originally published on Phys.org on 2/20/2026