There are many uncertainties about the magnitude and nature of labor shortages. Data needed to identify and quantify shortages are not available from national statistical offices so most of what is known comes from employer reports. (JOW)

A recent Bureau of Labor Statistics analysis indicates that the job market for college graduates during the 1980s is expected to be similar to the highly competitive market that characterized the 1970s, due to the supply of college graduates, the college labor market of the 1970s, and occupational demand in the 1980s. (CT)

The author states that competition among college graduates for jobs will decrease, although a small surplus of graduates will remain, between 1988 and 2000. Sources of job openings and sources of labor force entrants are discussed and openings and entrants are projected. (CH)