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Madison – Dakota State University officials continuously tout their graduates’ abilities. But, it’s also employers of those graduates who rank DSU as among the best in many areas.

Each year, employers are asked to rate DSU graduates in three areas: computer skills, communications/socialization skills, and job-related skills. It’s no surprise that employers rate DSU graduates high in their ability to use computers, but the 1998 survey results clearly show that other skills and abilities are also rated very high.

"DSU not only surveys employers, but uses the survey feedback to make adjustments in the curriculum," noted Assessment Specialist Carrie Ahern. "Employers value DSU graduates due to their technical skills and their ability to step right in and be productive immediately."

The 1998 employer survey results indicate DSU graduates were rated highly in their ability to learn on the job, appreciate cultural and ethnic differences among people, and use computers. DSU graduates were rated well above average in eight additional areas including the ability to adapt to changes in the computing environment. According to the November issue of National Association of Colleges & Employers Spotlight, employers are looking for seven desired skills: interpersonal, teamwork, verbal communication, analytical, computer, written communication, and leadership. With the exception of leadership (which was not measured this year on the survey), DSU graduates performed above average in all of these areas.

"The result is very aggressive on-campus recruiting," said Marie Lohsandt, Director of Career Services. "This fall we have had an unprecedented number of employers visiting DSU looking for May graduates – the competition is fierce."

According to the results, computer usage in the workplace has increased. Just 67% of the surveyed employers had workers who used computers every day in 1996 compared to 83% usage in 1998. The 1998 survey indicated that an additional 13% of the graduates used computers several times per week. This type of real-world data validates DSU’s philosophy of computer technology integration throughout the curriculum.

"The public demands accountability from higher education," said Mark Lee, Vice President of Business and Administrative Affairs. "There’s no greater measure of accountability than a high placement rate and excellent employer satisfaction. It proves DSU is meeting the needs of South Dakota."

Other survey highlights:

• 82% of the graduates were rated "Very Good" or "Good": in the use of computer software.
• 86% of the graduates were rated "Very Good" or "Good" in their ability to learn on the job.
• 83% of the graduates were rated "Very Good" or "Good" in their ability to appreciate cultural and ethnic differences.
• 81% of the employers rated their overall satisfaction with DSU graduates as "Very Good" or "Good".

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