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Survey: MSU degree propels Bulldog graduates to career success
95% of responding 2024-25 MSU graduates reported being employed, continuing education, or serving in the military
Published on Feb. 24, 2026
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A recent survey by Mississippi State University's Career Center shows that 95% of responding 2024-25 graduates reported being employed full or part time, continuing their education, participating in service-oriented programs or serving in the U.S. armed forces. This figure holds level with the successful outcome rate reported by 2023-2024 graduates responding to last year's survey.
Why it matters
The survey results highlight the continued career success of Mississippi State University graduates, demonstrating the value of an MSU education and the preparation provided by the university's faculty, staff, and career services to ensure students have the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the workplace.
The details
The First Destination Survey collected responses from 4,136 graduates, approximately 72% of the 5,770-member graduating class. Of those respondents, only 183 graduates—only 4%—sought employment at the time of the survey. Of those reporting their full- or part-time employment status, approximately 56% of respondents work in Mississippi, while 70% of those continuing their education did so at a Magnolia State institution of higher learning. Approximately 88% of participating graduates said their degrees aligned with their current jobs and industries. Top employers for graduates include Ergon Refining, Ingalls Shipbuilding, International Paper, MSU and the university's Extension Service, Neel-Schaffer engineering firm and the Rankin County School District.
- The First Destination Survey is administered by the MSU Career Center and follows the National Association of Colleges and Employers guidelines.
- Throughout the 2024-2025 academic year, students engaged with 703 employers throughout the Career Center's 71 career fairs, interviewing events and campus visits.
The players
Bethany Mills
MSU Career Center Executive Director
Mississippi State University
A public research university located in Starkville, Mississippi.
What they’re saying
“Students at Mississippi State University continue to find successful career opportunities upon graduation. While students at MSU are incredibly talented, their success is also a testament to the preparation provided by faculty and staff to ensure our students have the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the workplace.”
— Bethany Mills, MSU Career Center Executive Director (redhillsmsnews.com)
“The Career Center is proud to be a part of our students' career success. Career advisors provide tailored career development advice, help connect students with industry-specific opportunities and meet with students for individualized support when they are unsure of their career path. Our goal is to continue providing excellent service to our students and to help them access career options that may otherwise be unattainable.”
— Bethany Mills, MSU Career Center Executive Director (redhillsmsnews.com)
The takeaway
The survey results demonstrate the continued success of Mississippi State University graduates in finding career opportunities, highlighting the value of an MSU education and the university's commitment to preparing students for the workforce through faculty, staff, and career services support.
