Post-graduation outcomes report reveals high rate of employment, continued education
By Kevin Cook
Division of Academic Success and Student Affairs
Friday, Feb. 13, 2026
Kansas State University graduates are launching careers, advancing their education and strengthening the Kansas workforce at record levels, according to the university’s latest post-graduation outcomes report.
Based on an 80% knowledge rate of fall and spring 2025 graduates, 97% are either employed or continuing their education — a powerful reflection of K-State’s commitment to preparing students for life beyond college.
Mia Thompson, a 2025 biochemistry graduate and current medical school student, says her K-State undergraduate coursework prepared her to take her next steps with confidence.
“Not only did K-State give me a strong academic foundation, but it gave me a support network of advisors and professors,” Thompson said. “If I needed guidance, I knew I could reach out, and someone would always be there to help. They connected me with research, extracurricular opportunities and organizations that shaped my path, and I would not be where I am today without the community at K-State.”
Good for Kansas, good for the world
By prioritizing workforce preparedness, K-State is empowering graduates to secure meaningful careers and drive economic impact early in their careers.
The average salary of baccalaureate graduates has increased to $60,000, up $2,000 from the previous outcomes report. K-State continues to support the Kansas workforce, with 57% of all graduates choosing to build their careers in the state.
Beyond Kansas, 17% of graduates launched their careers in neighboring states — Colorado, Missouri, Nebraska and Oklahoma — 24% are employed across other parts of the United States, and 1% began their careers internationally, reflecting strong industry ties around the world.
Leading employers hiring K-State graduates include Burns & McDonnell, Garmin, Geary County USD 475, Kiewit, Koch, Manhattan-Ogden USD 383, Shamrock Trading, Textron and the US Air Force.
Andrea Unruh, Koch senior finance director and K-State alumna, emphasized the value of creating space for students to connect with industry at K-State.
“The long-standing relationship between Kansas State University and Koch is a perfect example of what is possible when we focus on creating mutual benefit together,” Unruh said. “K-State is preparing students to contribute their skills, passion and knowledge to meet society’s changing needs.”
Launchpad for learning growth
In addition to immediate employment, K-State graduates are also pursuing advanced education at high rates.
25% of graduates in this year’s outcome report are continuing their learning through post-graduate degrees or professional programs, with leading fields of study including accounting, dietetics, law, nursing, physical therapy and veterinary medicine.
While some graduates are pursuing opportunities around the country and the globe, many are also choosing advanced education in Kansas, including at K-State. Whether near or far, students are making an impact, reflecting the growing reach and influence of a K-State education.
The K-State Career Center supports students at every stage by connecting them with industry employers and providing guidance for their first year after graduation. Services are available to students in person at the Berney Family Welcome Center or through virtual resources accessible on the center’s website.
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