Willamette University

What are the graduation rates for students at Willamette University?

Willamette University demonstrates strong performance in student graduation rates, ranking within the top quartile nationally. The overall graduation rate stands at 73%, placing the institution in the top 20% of colleges and universities. This suggests a consistent ability to guide a significant majority of its students to program completion.

When examining rates by gender, graduation outcomes remain favorable for both men and women. Male students graduate at a rate of 67%, which is considered high and ranks within the top 25% nationally. Female students graduate at an even stronger rate of 76%, also within the top 25%. These figures highlight relatively balanced success across genders, with women showing a somewhat higher completion rate.

The pace of graduation additionally reflects positive trends. The four-year graduation rate, an important measure of timely completion, is 60%. This rate also falls within the top 25%, indicating that a majority of students are completing their degrees within the expected timeframe. Moreover, Willamette University's six-year graduation rate matches the overall graduation rate at 73%, again in the top 20%, reinforcing long-term persistence and academic success.

Retention rates provide further insight into the institution's ability to sustain student enrollment through critical early years. The freshman retention rate is 86%, ranking in the top 25% nationally, which implies effective student support systems and a campus environment conducive to continued enrollment.

What is the earning potential for graduates at Willamette University?

Graduates from Willamette University experience a range of earning potentials depending on their field of study. Among the degrees with reported earnings, those in the social sciences and sciences tend to lead the pack. For instance, graduates with degrees in Sociology and Political Science and Government report median early-career earnings of $33,206 and $33,011 respectively, indicating stronger initial income prospects in these areas.

Degrees in Economics and Chemistry also stand out, with graduates earning approximately $31,509 and $31,482. These figures suggest that Willamette University students pursuing careers in quantitative and scientific disciplines can expect relatively higher earnings soon after graduation.

Other science-related fields show somewhat lower but still competitive earnings. Biology graduates report median earnings around $29,357, while those completing studies in Health and Physical Education/Fitness tend to earn about $25,078 early in their careers. Natural Resources Conservation and Research graduates report earnings near $25,204.

The humanities and arts at Willamette University show varied outcomes. For example, graduates in Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics and Fine and Studio Arts report earnings of $23,292 and $22,333 respectively, reflecting more modest initial income levels. Meanwhile, English Language and Literature graduates have median earnings close to $21,094, and Psychology graduates earn approximately $20,615.

In communication-related fields, graduates with a degree in Communication and Media Studies report median earnings of $25,490, suggesting a reasonable earning potential for students in these disciplines.