Radford University 2024 graduates successfully secure jobs at a rate above the national average.
According to data provided by the National Association of College and Employers (NACE), students from Radford’s Class of 2024 are finding jobs and entry into graduate school or military placements at higher-than-average rates. Total placement rose to a new record of 94% this year, showing an increase in success outcomes. The national career outcomes rate is 85.7%.
These data come primarily from the NACE First Destination survey, given to recent graduates to report data on placement outcomes. More student data was captured in 2024 than in previous years, making the quality of the data even stronger.
“The Career and Talent Development team is committed to supporting our students through their academic journey and into successful next steps, and our work is paying off,” said Jeanne Mekolichick, the associate provost for academic affairs. “We are proud of our students and the positive impacts they are making in their communities across the commonwealth and beyond.”
When doubt looms about the value of a college education, Radford University students are putting their degrees to work. In the most recent return on investment (ROI) data shared by the Center on Education and Workforce, Radford University showed a net salary gain of $168,000 over 10 years, ranking eighth among Virginia public institutions in the center’s ROI data.
Graduates from Radford University enter some of the highest-demand fields, such as nursing and education. Additional fields needing workforce in Virginia are business, technology, mental health, social work and law enforcement. Nearly 1,870 degrees were conferred in the 2023-2024 academic year at Radford, and many graduates went on to fill roles in these industries.
Employers are seeing those outcomes firsthand. At Regal Rexnord, site controller Nick Leeman supervised Highlander Works intern Brent Mabry, who became a full-time financial analyst after graduation; Brent’s brother, Reece, joined as a buyer/planner. Leeman says Radford graduates arrive ready to contribute from day one.
“Radford students have proven to our company time and time again that they have not only learned the fundamentals through their coursework but will also consistently bring the grit and determination needed to enter leadership positions and deliver results,” Leeman said. “We look forward to continuing the relationship with Radford University and employing more of Virginia’s brightest graduates.”
NACE collected data from hundreds of institutions, representing approximately 594,000 graduates with bachelor’s degrees. The comprehensive report includes outcomes by various forms of employment, additional education, military service and average salaries by degree type and level.
Justin Ward for Radford University
