UE’s Graduating Class of 2017 Sees Higher Salary, Higher Employment Rate

The University of Evansville’s 2017 graduating class has found success after graduation, with 94 percent currently employed or enrolled in graduate school—up from 93 percent last year. The median salary of those employed full-time is $47,750, also an increase from the previous year’s salary of $47,500.

The survey was a collaborative effort between UE’s Center for Career Development, the Office of Alumni and Parent Relations, the Office of Institutional Effectiveness, and academic departments.

“The active role we take in our students’ success and career development is strongly reflected in this survey,” said Dr. Thomas Kazee, UE president. “We offer a unique career planning process that begins before they even enroll here, and it continues well after they graduate.”

UE’s rate stands in contrast to the National Association of Colleges and Employers Career Services Benchmark Survey, which shows 81 percent placement rate nationally for 2016 graduates.

Employers for the 2017 class include Amazon, Rolls-Royce North America, USAA, Berry Global, Honda Motor Manufacturing, KMPG, and more than 230 other employers across the globe.

Other results reported in the survey included:

·         51 percent of employed graduates were working in Indiana.

·         57 percent of those in graduate school were studying in Indiana.

·         28 percent of those not currently enrolled in further education intend to pursue graduate school within three years.

“It’s important to note that we received a response from 97 percent of the class of 2017, said Gene Wells, senior director for UE’s Center for Career Development. “That participation rate is unheard of at most schools, who are lucky to receive a 65 percent response. This report truly is representative of virtually the entire 2017 graduating class.”

UE’s Center for Career Development provides comprehensive services to students throughout their collegiate journey and even before they enroll. Through the Career Advantage Program, prospective students have the opportunity to evaluate and test career options by taking a career assessment, meeting with a career advising professional, and developing a career action plan. Prospective students can begin this Career Advantage Program during their very first visit to UE—even before committing to attend the University.

Graduating seniors and new alumni can sign up for the UE Connect program, which is designed to assist students and alumni with career-related needs and connect them with engaged alumni who will support and champion their professional goals. All Center for Career Development services, ranging from resume and cover letter assistance, to mock interviews, to UE JobLink database access, are free to students and alumni.