A Carleton education goes beyond providing training for a first job or a specific technical skill, though those are important. Its broader purpose is to teach students to think critically, develop problem-solving abilities and to adapt to change.

In a recent survey, chief executive officers of Fortune 500 companies cited these qualities as the most desired characteristics of new employees.

More than half of all Carleton alumni have earned advanced degrees, and more than 16 percent have earned doctorates. About two-thirds enter graduate or professional schools within five years after graduation. Many also go directly into the work force.

Early on, the Career Center at Carleton helps students identify and explore career options of interest to them. Career Center counselors are available for guidance on choosing a major, on writing a resume as well as to alert students to valuable internships and how to apply for academic fellowships. The Center offers workshops exploring a variety of both traditional and non-traditional career paths. By senior year, students will be prepared to apply to graduate school or interview with the recruiters from a variety of businesses and non-profits who come to campus each year.

Fast Facts

• Carleton ranks first in the number of students receiving National Science Foundation Fellowships among primarily undergraduate institutions from 1996 through 1999.
• 70% of students go on to advanced study within five years of graduating.
• 70% of Carleton alumni who apply to medical school and maintained a grade point average of 3.0 or higher while at Carleton are accepted; the national acceptance rate is 40%.
• 10% of the 1997 entering cohort at the University of Minnesota Medical School was comprised of Carleton alumni.
• 100% of recent pre-law Carleton students have been accepted to law school.

Alumni Profiles

• The Voice (Carleton's Alumni Magazine) profiles many Carleton alumni
• Art & Art History Alumni Profiles
• Geology Alumni