The First Destination Survey is a national survey put on by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), used by educational institutions to gather data on the initial outcomes of their graduates. It typically collects information on graduates’ employment status, further education pursuits, or other activities like internships. This data helps institutions evaluate the effectiveness of their programs and tailor them to meet the needs of their students and the job market.
Did you graduate in Fall of 2024? Are you graduating in Winter 2025? We want to hear from you! Take the 2025 First Destination Survey!
79.8%
CWU graduates who find employment within six months after graduation
$60k
Average annual salary of new graduates
Amazon, Boeing, Moss Adams, Costco
Some of the top employers new graduates have been hired by
The First Destination Survey (FDS) is a vital tool for capturing the career and education outcomes of our graduates. It provides a comprehensive overview of what alumni are doing after graduation, whether it’s starting a new job, continuing their education, or pursuing other opportunities. By sharing your journey, you’re contributing to a better understanding of how our institution supports student success and prepares graduates for the future. This data is also used to demonstrate the value of our programs to prospective students, employers, and accrediting bodies. Your voice matters, and your participation helps shape the story of our collective achievements.
The survey is now open for graduates of the Class of 2025, and it only takes a few minutes to complete. Click the link below to get started. Your responses are confidential and will only be shared in aggregate form to protect your privacy. 2025 First Destination Survey
The results of the First Destination Survey provide valuable insights that benefit a wide range of audiences. For current and prospective students, the data highlights key trends, such as employment rates, average starting salaries, top industries, and common graduate school destinations, helping them make informed decisions about their career paths. Faculty and staff use the information to assess the effectiveness of academic programs and align them with industry needs. Employers gain a better understanding of the talent pool coming from our institution, while alumni can see how their peers are succeeding across various fields.
First Destination Survey data for the Class of 2024 will be available in Spring and shared here.
Looking for your next step? We’re here to help. From career counseling appointments and job boards to resume workshops and alumni networking opportunities, our resources are designed to support you. Whether you’re job hunting, starting a business, or continuing your education, visit our resources page to get started.
Have questions about the survey? Our team is here to assist! Reach out to us at career@cwu.edu or call 509-963-1921. We’re happy to help with any concerns about participation or how your data will be used.