Saints’ early post-graduation earnings rates #1 for Minnesota public and private colleges

New data released by the U.S. Census Bureau reveals that the median earnings of The College of St. Scholastica undergraduate alumni are $49,673 one year after graduating. That is $11,212 more than the median earnings of graduates of all Minnesota four-year colleges, public or private, one year after graduation. The state median for all private institutions is $38,987, while the median earnings for Minnesota State Universities is $37,846, and the University of Minnesota is $38,528. The earnings of St. Scholastica’s alumni are also higher than the state average five years and ten years after graduation.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes is “an experimental data product” that compares earnings outcomes and employment flows for recent graduates of partner colleges and universities. Statistics are generated by matching university transcript data with a national database of jobs.

The College’s program offerings are grounded in values, oriented toward leadership, and focused on outcomes. The College has concentrated on providing programs for traditional and non-traditional students to meet community needs.

Dr. Barbara McDonald, president of The College of St. Scholastica, responded to the recent report on earnings: “Our alumni are incredible, and the report shines a light on our phenomenal faculty and staff in preparing our students for meaningful lives. Our graduates are out in our communities quite literally transforming the world through their work and service. The statistics regarding their earnings demonstrate that employers seek out our graduates and value their impact. That is something we can most definitely celebrate.”

Dr. Ryan Sandefer, vice president for Academic Affairs, points to St. Scholastica’s recently created Center for Experiential Learning as a catalyst that provides opportunities for students to learn through “high-impact practices.” High-impact practices are experiences associated with higher academic outcomes, such as study abroad, internships, research and major capstone projects. According to Sandefer, “These statistics speak to the College’s vision of providing a holistic education aimed to impact the community and industry. High-impact practices are associated with improved student learning across disciplines, satisfaction with the educational experience and success in post-graduation employment. At St. Scholastica, we focus on deep learning and preparedness for the challenges the world presents. That most definitely includes the ability to think and lead in highly complex jobs. I’m proud of the work our students, faculty and staff do to prepare our learners for purpose-driven, successful careers.”

The Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes Explorer is publicly available through The US Census Bureau and includes a coverage map of participating states and links to data sources and methodology.