USF again celebrates 99 percent placement for graduates
USF again celebrates 99 percent placement for graduates
February 26, 2020
A recent survey shows that 99 percent of University of Sioux Falls graduates from the undergraduate Class of 2019 were either employed or attending graduate or professional school within six months of graduation.
“USF equipped me to find a job that I absolutely love,” said Ashlea Peasley, a Class of 2019 graduate, who was hired as a Talent Acquisition Representative at Sanford Health after completing two internships with the organization as part of her undergraduate work at USF. “My USF advisor introduced me to internship opportunities, job fairs and professional contacts that would eventually lead to me landing a career at an incredible organization. I am forever grateful to have gone to a university that genuinely cares for its students and their future after college.”
Over 87% of the Class of 2019 graduates participated in one or more experiential learning activities, such as: internships, campus-based research, practicums, clinical experiences, field experiences and/or student teaching experiences.
“We are incredibly proud of our graduates,” said USF President Brett Bradfield. “It is rewarding to see our graduates confirm what we already believe to be true—that a USF education equips students with the skills and connections to secure gainful employment and contribute to their communities.”
Other highlights from survey respondents include that 79 percent of 2019 grads started their careers in South Dakota, and of those, 88 percent are employed in Sioux Falls or within a 30 mile radius. Overall, USF graduates reported working in 15 states and 4 countries.
Twenty percent of respondents reported continuing their education in either a graduate or professional degree program. In addition, students reported 100% placement rates in over three-fourths of majors. A 91% response rate to the survey was obtained for the undergraduate Class of 2019, which exceeds the target goal outlined by the National Association of Colleges and Employers of 65%.
Results were equally as impressive for USF master’s degree programs in business administration and education. The same study found 100% of graduates were either employed or attending further schooling within 6 months of graduation, and a 100% response rate to the survey was achieved.
Employers can recruit USF talent in a variety of ways, including Purple Briefcase, USF’s online employment database. All students and alumni have access to the no-cost platform online. Employers wanting to get started are encouraged to inquire by emailing asc@usiouxfalls.edu.
Each year, USF Career Services surveys the USF graduating class to assess their post-graduation activities. The methodology of this survey aligns with best practices that are outlined by the National Association of Colleges and Employers.