Feb. 11, 2025

This paid piece is sponsored by Augustana University.

A newly published report by Augustana University shows that 99 percent of 2024 graduates — who completed degrees in August, December and May of academic year 2023-24 — achieved a positive career outcome.

Many of these graduates chose to continue their education, with 26 percent enrolled in graduate school or professional programs.

“The class of 2024 experienced remarkable success as they launched their post-college journey. Their achievement reflects their hard work and talent, as well as the personalized support they received from the Augustana community,” said Mary Toso, director of the university’s Student Success Center.

“Whether pursuing advanced degrees, entering the workforce or serving their communities, Augustana graduates are well prepared to excel and make a difference. We’re proud to see them stepping into the world ready to make an impact, and it’s exciting to know we played a small part in their journey.”

To help accomplish these outcomes, Augustana’s Student Success Center provides ongoing and tailored vocational engagement — offering individual support, alumni mentoring, career fairs and unique events alongside community organizations and business partners.

“Everything about my experience at Augie was meaningful. It’s the community, the dedication from both the faculty and students, and the common goal of building up one another that made my Augie experience transformative,” said Yue Wang, a 2024 graduate and a biology and psychology double major.

“The most significant experiences I had at Augustana University were the opportunities I had within the nursing program,” said Luke Bacialli, a 2024 graduate and nursing major. “I was able to learn and see so much through the clinicals I had been provided. I also had the opportunity to be a senior mentor and help the incoming nursing class and guide them. The nursing department is so excellent, and I am beyond grateful to have been given guidance from amazing faculty.” 

Using guidelines set by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, Augustana obtained information on 89 percent of recent graduates — exceeding the minimum NACE knowledge rate by 24 percentage points.

Class of 2024 key statistics

• Ninety-nine percent of responding graduates achieved a positive career outcome such as continuing their education, working, serving in the military or volunteering.
• Among the respondents, 26 percent enrolled in graduate school or professional programs. Of students who sought admission or continuing education, 99 permission were admitted.
• Upon graduation, Class of 2024 alumni reported working in 23 states, as well as Norway, Paraguay, Spain and the United Arab Emirates.
• South Dakota retained 61 percent of AU’s full-time graduates, including 55 percent working in the Sioux Falls area.
• Members of the Class of 2024 were hired by 132 organizations. The top employers included Avera and Sanford Health, as well as the Sioux Falls School District.
• The mean salary for undergraduate students in the Class of 2024 who were working full time was $54,770, with a median salary of $54,500.

More employment data, as well as other post-graduation activities and destinations for members of the Class of 2024, is detailed in the Career Outcomes Report published by the Student Success Center at augie.edu/outcomes.