NACE Journal

CONTACT: CONTACT:      , 610.625.1039; , 610.625.1021 SUBJECT: Beyond the Paycheck: What the Class of 2026 Really Wants From an Employer BETHLEHEM, PA—With economic uncertainty and a job market that is in flux, it’s no surprise that Class of 2026 college graduates are searching for jobs that offer stability, support, and room to grow, according to new research from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).

CONTACT: , 610.625.1039; , 610.625.1021 SUBJECT: More Than Two Out of Five of College Class of 2026 Had a Job Offer in Hand by Graduation BETHLEHEM, PA—More than two out of five new college graduates (44%) had at least one job offer before graduation, according to a new study conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). NACE’s annual Student Survey found that, overall, 2026 bachelor’s degree graduates averaged 0.79 job offers before graduating.

CONTACT: , 610.625.1039; , 610.625.1021 SUBJECT: Employers Give New College Grads a Passing Grade on Job Readiness BETHLEHEM, PA—Overall, employers feel that new college graduates are reasonably well prepared for the jobs they will enter after graduation, according to a new report from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).

CONTACT: , 610.625.1039; , 610.625.1021 SUBJECT: Outlook Brightens for College Class of 2026 Entry-Level Hiring BETHLEHEM, PA—Employers expect to increase their new college graduate hiring from the Class of 2026 by 5.6%,* according to a new report from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). Shawn VanDerziel, NACE president and chief executive officer, said the anticipated gain in hiring for the Class of 2026 bucks recent trends in the job market for new college graduates.

CONTACT: , 610.625.1039; , 610.625.1021 SUBJECT: The High-Impact Skills College Students Should Showcase on Their Resumes BETHLEHEM, PA—New college graduates hoping to catch the eye of employers for entry-level jobs should provide evidence of the skills and abilities they have developed on their resumes, according to a new report from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).

Not all college students fit the same mold as an 18-year-old navigating dorm life, exploring their interests, and preparing themselves for their career. Some are returning learners or professionals pursuing advanced degrees while balancing work, family, and other responsibilities. These students can bring different perspectives and priorities that shape their engagement with coursework, skill development, and career preparation.

Hiring Flat for the College Class of 2026 Hiring Flat for the College Class of 2026 BETHLEHEM, PA—Reflecting an uncertain job market for college graduates, employers are projecting just a 1.6% increase in hiring for the Class of 2026 when compared to the Class of 2025, according to results of a new report from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).

In response to a national and extensive industry workforce shortage, Garver’s recruitment team has crafted a dedicated university recruiting program that ultimately serves as a pipeline for eventual full-time employees. The engineering firm’s program is focused on recruiting and hiring college students to fill internship and entry-level positions while also supporting brand recognition and awareness among college students nationwide.

CONTACT: , 610.625.1039; , 610.625.1021 SUBJECT: Employers Plan to Expand Summer Intern Hiring This Year BETHLEHEM, PA—Internship hiring is on the rise this year as employers expect to bring in 3.9% more interns in 2025-26 compared with 2024-25, according to a new report from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).

CONTACT: , 610.625.1039; , 610.625.1021 SUBJECT: Salaries Expected to Climb for Class of 2026 Grads Despite Flat Hiring BETHLEHEM, PA—Starting salary projections show promise for the college Class of 2026,  according to a new report from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).