UNI graduates benefit the State of Iowa

Fall 2022 Commencement is right around the corner at the University of Northern Iowa, and graduates are gearing up to enter the workforce or continue their education. A UNI education sets students up for success, as nearly 95% of UNI graduates holding bachelor's degrees are either employed or pursuing advanced study within six months of graduation.

Graduation rates for UNI students stand at record-high levels. The four-year graduation rate increased by five percent over last year and is nearly 20 percentage points above similar universities. One in 12 UNI students graduate in only three years.

These success rates can be tied in part to the hands-on learning opportunities students experience including a robust internship program, field experiences and professional part-time jobs. Ninety-two percent of UNI graduates will enter the workforce with at least one of these experiences.

"It's clear that UNI students are set apart from their peers based on what they achieve in the classroom and once they complete their degrees," said UNI President Mark A. Nook. "Our supportive community helps students graduate in a timely fashion, and the hands-on experiences students receive give them valuable skills they will use long after their time at UNI concludes."

The strength of UNI's graduates strengthens the state of Iowa since 86% of UNI graduates from Iowa and 55% of graduates from outside Iowa remain in the state after graduation. Almost 90% of UNI-educated teachers also remain in the state to start their careers as educators. This year, 91% of graduates earned degrees that align with Iowa's most in-demand jobs.

While UNI's impact stretches to the areas of business, sciences and community and social services, its tremendous impact on education in particular is undeniable. Twenty-eight percent of all undergraduate students are in teacher education. The size of UNI's teacher education program puts it in the top 1% of the country.

Fall 2022 Commencement will be held on Saturday, Dec. 17 in the McLeod Center at 10 a.m.