Samford ranked #10 best college in the U.S. for career preparation—find out why

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Samford University students
Samford gives opportunities to join student organizations. (Samford University, Deidre Lackey)

Big news! On November 1, Samford University announced that it ranked #10 of all colleges and universities in the U.S. for the quality of career preparation provided to students, according to The Wall Street Journal (WSJ).

Keep reading for what we know about this achievement.

2024 Best Colleges in the U.S.

According to a release from Samford, this report is based on a national survey conducted for the WSJ/College Pulse 2024 Best Colleges in the U.S. ranking.

The survey asked 60,000+ students to share information on career preparation, educational opportunities and learning facilities at their schools. The survey also assessed satisfaction with the value received for the learning experiences provided.

How does Samford set students up for success?

So, how does Samford faculty and staff prepare students for their future careers?

The university conducts a bi-annual census of students to report its job placement rate, and the results show that an average of 97% of graduates are either employed, continuing their education in graduate school or in post-graduation internships.

In the release, Samford’s Career Development Center expressed how this census is a joint effort from everyone at the university.

“The year-over-year placement data is impressive and demonstrates the value of Samford’s first-class education. It’s a holistic effort and everyone at Samford plays a role.”

Dora Ditchfield, Director, Career Development Center

Equipping students with resources in undergrad + beyond

Samford graduate with professors best colleges for career preparation
Samford professors set students up for success. (Callie Morrison / Bham Now)

Beginning freshman year, students are equipped with resources to explore interests and career aspirations through many areas, including:

  • Student organizations
  • Global engagement opportunities
  • Counseling services
  • Individual career preparation

“While national rankings are just one measure of our success, they continue to verify Samford University’s growing reputation as one of the nation’s premier Christian institutions of higher learning.

I do not think there is another school like Samford in the country that combines great academics and a faithful community and prepares students for lives of meaning and purpose in the world.”

Dr. Beck Taylor, President, Samford University

As a Samford graduate myself, I can attest to the attention faculty members give to each student. I am proof that their career preparation pays off—I think I landed a pretty great job, after all.

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Callie Morrison
Callie Morrison
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