Career Outcomes at Mississippi State University
Last updated: September 2026
Mississippi State's Career Center tracks what happens to students after graduation, backed by real survey data collected every semester. Here's what the numbers show, and answers to the questions prospective students and families ask most.
Key numbers at a glance
- 4,136 graduates, about 72% of the 5,770-member 2024-2025 graduating class, reported their post-grad plans through the First Destination Survey
- 88% said their degree lined up with the job or industry they landed in
- MSU's overall career outcomes rate beats the national average tracked by NACE (National Association of Colleges and Employers)
- Students connected with 703 employers across 71 career fairs, interviewing events, and campus visits in 2024-2025
- Top employers hiring MSU grads include Ergon Refining, Ingalls Shipbuilding, International Paper, Neel-Schaffer, and MSU's own Extension Service
Frequently asked questions
How many students find jobs related to their major after graduating from Mississippi State?
About 88% of MSU graduates who responded to the First Destination Survey said their degree aligned with their current job or industry, based on the 2024-2025 survey of 4,136 graduates.
How many employers recruit at Mississippi State?
Students engaged with 703 employers through 71 career fairs, interviewing events, and campus visits during the 2024-2025 academic year alone.
How many people work at the Mississippi State Career Center?
The Career Center is staffed by 18 full-time employees, along with graduate assistants and student workers who support career counseling, employer relations, and career fair operations.
Does Mississippi State have a career outcomes rate above the national average?
Yes. According to NACE (National Association of Colleges and Employers) First Destination Survey standards, MSU's successful career outcomes rate exceeds the national average.
What services does the MSU Career Center offer students?
One-on-one career counseling, resume and cover letter help, a dedicated Co-op and Internship Program, the Bulldog Mentor Program pairing students with alumni mentors, the Mississippi State Career Closet for free professional attire, and a Summer Internship Support Fund for unpaid or low-paid internships.
Where is the Mississippi State Career Center located and what are its hours?
The Career Center is located at 300 Montgomery Hall on the Mississippi State campus. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with drop-in hours from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. during fall and spring semesters.
What the Career Center does for you
- One-on-one career counseling and resume/cover letter help, available by appointment or daily drop-in hours
- A dedicated Co-op and Internship Program with its own office in McCain Hall
- The Bulldog Mentor Program, pairing students with alumni mentors based on shared career interests
- The Mississippi State Career Closet, giving students access to professional clothing for interviews and career fairs at no cost
- A Summer Internship Support Fund to help students take unpaid or low-paid internships they'd otherwise have to turn down
- College-specific outcome reports for all nine colleges, updated annually
Career Center staff
18 full-time staff members, supported by graduate assistants and student workers, handle career counseling, employer relations, co-op/internship coordination, and career fair operations.
Contact and hours
Career Center Office 300 Montgomery Hall, Mississippi State Campus Phone: 662-325-3344 Email: career@career.msstate.edu
Office hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Drop-in hours: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., fall and spring semesters