Of the 304 graduates who responded to the annual First Destination Survey Report, 83% (250 graduates) secured full- or part-time employment and 15% (45 graduates) are continuing their education. The First Destination Survey Report, administered by the College, collects information on the post-graduation plans and activities of alumni. The survey includes graduates from December 2024 through July 2025. Outcomes were collected within six months of graduation. Of the 367 graduates surveyed, 83% (304) responded.
“These results highlight the success of our graduates and reflect the collaborative efforts of faculty, staff and the Career Center in preparing Saint Mary-of-the-Woods students for meaningful careers and continued education,” said Janet Clark, Ph.D., provost /executive vice president for academic affairs. “Additionally, I’m pleased with a strong response rate that was achieved through efforts from the faculty and staff who encouraged graduates to participate and helped maintain connections with alumni.”
Nursing graduates reported particularly strong placements and competitive compensation. Education graduates secured placements across regional school corporations, while business and leadership graduates reported assuming roles in finance, marketing, healthcare administration and nonprofit leadership.
The survey shows a high retention rate of the Class of 2025, with about 75% of graduates staying in Indiana and contributing to the state’s workforce. The Top 5 employment or graduate school destinations include: Union Health/Union Hospital System, SMWC, Vigo County School Corporation, Indiana State University and IU Health.
While Indiana is the most common location for employment, graduates also found placement nationally and abroad, including New York, Washington state, Florida, Puerto Rico, Japan and Scotland.
The National Association of Colleges and Employers reported that approximately 86% of the Class of 2024 bachelor’s degree graduates were employed or enrolled in further education within six months of graduation – up 1% from the Class of 2023.
“The First Destination Survey provides valuable insight into the immediate career and educational outcomes of our graduates,” said Martha Reed, MS, director of Career Center. “This data helps the college assess how effectively we prepare students for life after graduation while supporting institutional planning, accreditation reporting and program development.”
The 98% positive outcome rate positions Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College as competitive among peer institutions and reflects strong employer confidence and graduate readiness. The overall placement rate demonstrates strong alignment between academic preparation and career or advanced education outcomes.