Within six months of graduation, 96 percent of Grove City College’s class of 2018 was either employed, in graduate school or voluntarily serving others in uniform or the community, according to a first destination survey conducted by the College’s Office of Career Services.
That career outcomes rate, formerly referred to as placement rate, is nearly 12 points higher than the 2017 national average of 84.4 percent, as reported by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, according to Mandy Sposato, director of Career Services.
“We are thrilled about the career outcomes of our 2018 graduates as it is a statistic that certainly speaks to the high-caliber of students we have the privilege of working with here at the College,” Sposato said. “Beyond this career outcomes rate, however, we are most excited about encouraging our students to pursue their vocational callings and identify opportunities where they will thrive and glorify God in their work. If we accomplish that goal, then our greatest aim will be met.”
Within the career outcomes rate of 96 percent, more than 78 percent of the class of 2018 are working full- or part-time jobs – compared to a 2017 national average of 63.7 percent – and 15 percent are pursuing post-graduate education, according to the survey.
The College consistently reports a high career outcomes rate, along with above average numbers for graduation – over 80 percent – and early career earnings. According to PayScale, Grove City College alums see an average starting salary of $53,500. That’s considered a great return on investment, considering the College’s tuition is the most affordable for a private college in Pennsylvania, according to U.S. News. The College also ranks 11th in the nation for top internship placements, according to a Princeton Review student survey, and is a Career Development College of Distinction.
The Career Services’ survey is based on an unusually high knowledge rate of recent alumni - 99 percent. In comparison, the 2017 national average for knowledge rate was 64.5 percent, which Sposato said gives the office confidence in the solidness and strength of their success rate.