Career outcomes data show UA graduates are off to a strong start

The University of Akron (UA) empowers its graduates to embark on their career journeys soon after they earn their degree, as evidenced by new survey results that track career outcomes rates and other pertinent details from alumni just six months after their graduation.

Data collected from spring 2023 graduates showed that within six months of graduation, 94% were employed full- or part-time, participating in a program of voluntary services, serving in the U.S. Armed Forces or continuing their education. 

The career outcomes information is based on a survey knowledge rate of 71% of spring 2023 graduates. Knowledge rate is the percentage of graduates for whom the University has reasonable and verifiable information about their career activities six months after graduation.

The average starting salary of graduates who earned a bachelor’s degree was $63,806. This is an increase of nearly 9% since 2021. Starting salaries of graduates who earned associate degrees has increased nearly 39% since 2021.

In an indication of the impact of hands-on experiences, 89% of survey respondents indicated they had participated in at least one form of experiential learning. This type of learning includes opportunities such as internships, co-ops, practicums, assistantships, on-campus student employment, student teaching, undergraduate research, field experiences, clinicals, volunteer work related to their major and study abroad.

The experiential learning rate increased three percentage points compared to 2022 graduates.

UA’s Career Services and Student Employment office collected the data through use of the Handshake First Destination Survey Tool and collaborations with faculty and staff in each of UA’s colleges to gather other information about 2023 graduates.

Career Services and Student Employment offers support with career exploration, career development and career opportunities. Around 30,500 employers actively recruit UA students and graduates.

Media contact: Cristine Boyd, cboyd@uakron.edu, 330-972-6476