2021 First Destination Outcomes For Undergraduate Students

I’m pleased to report that the results for the 2021 graduating class indicate that 90% of undergraduate students have reported favorable outcomes at the six-month post-graduation milestone. This represents a 5-percentage point increase from last year’s result of 85%. Additionally, a 90% favorable outcome rate represents a 6-percentage point increase since the Center for Career Development first started tracking these outcomes in 2016.

Our methodology is based on the national standards set by the National Association of Colleges and Employers. These are the final numbers that will be publicly communicated and posted on the Center for Career Development website for the 2021 graduating class. The full outcomes report can be found on the data visualization page of the Center for Career Development website starting Monday, November 29th. On this site, you will be able to sort results by academic year (starting with 2016), school/college, and academic major.

In addition to the increase of a favorable outcome rate to 90%, the percentage of students who remained in Connecticut for jobs after graduation is noteworthy. These outcomes are of particular interest as they indicate how UConn continues to support the talent pipeline and economic development of the State of Connecticut. These 2021 six-month post-graduation statistics are as follows:

  • 62% of graduates who attended high school in Connecticut (CT residents) and are employed, are working in the state
  • 18% of graduates who did not attend high school in Connecticut (out-of-state students) and are employed, remain in the state for employment

You will notice that we saw a precipitous increase in graduates who are pursuing advanced degrees. This can be attributed to two factors: 1) an increase in institutions offering 4+1 programs, an attractive option for many students considering an advanced degree, and 2) during periods when there is at least the perception of a tight job market, many students opt to pursue an advanced degree as opposed to entering the job market immediately after graduation. This increase in graduates who are continuing their education by pursuing advanced degrees has impacted employment rates, resulting in an eight-percentage point decline over the previous year. 

It is also worth noting that 78% of students reported participating in an experiential learning opportunity (internship or co-op) during their undergraduate career at UConn. Additionally, 73% of those with reported outcomes utilized services provided by the Center for Career Development during their time at UConn. This number is 19-percentage points higher than the national average of 54% as reported in a recent national Gallup poll.

The infographic below highlights key information for the class of 2021. If you have any questions or need additional information, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. I’m happy to discuss this with you in greater detail.

2021 UConn First Destination Infographic
By Jim Lowe
Jim Lowe Associate Vice Provost, Executive Director