April 07, 2017

Susquehanna University is ranked as the No. 9 college in America for getting a job, according to Zippia Inc., which operates a website with career information for professionals across industries.

The recently released list shows Susquehanna as No. 1 in Pennsylvania and in the top 10 nationwide. Eight of the top 10 are liberal arts colleges, demonstrating that a liberal arts education is one of the best investments a student can make in preparing for a career. Students at colleges like Susquehanna get in-depth study in their specific area of interest, as well as intellectual and practical skills—such as communication, analytical and problem-solving skills—that help them adapt throughout their lives to a highly competitive and ever-changing workplace.

“I’m delighted that Zippia’s data collection has proven what we at Susquehanna already know-our graduates make a difference in the world and achieve uncommon professional success,” said Madeleine Rhyneer, vice president for enrollment and marketing at Susquehanna. “Our commitment to putting the liberal arts and sciences to work is paying great dividends for our students.”

Using federal Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) data, Zippia searched for the college in each state with the highest-listed job placement ratings, looking specifically at employment levels 10 years after graduation. IPEDS is a system of interrelated surveys conducted annually by the U.S. Department of Education.

Susquehanna’s Class of 2016 outcomes show that 96.5 percent are employed in graduate or professional school. More specifically, 77.3 percent reported being employed and 19.2 percent said they were enrolled in a graduate or professional program. The 3.5 percent who do not fall into either category includes those participating in postgraduate internships and fellowships and compensated volunteer programs.

Ninety percent of Susquehanna students have at least one internship, research or other professional experience while an undergraduate, a key factor impacting successful job placement after graduation.