Southwestern University

Center for Career & Professional Development

#1 in Texas and #19 in the Nation for Career Services

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Center for Career & Professional Development

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Prothro 140

Center for Career & Professional Development

Launch Your Future with Confidence

At Southwestern, preparing you for life after college isn’t an afterthought; it’s built into everything we do. Our nationally ranked Center for Career & Professional Development (CCPD) offers personalized support to help you turn your passions into purpose and your degree into a fulfilling career.

Through one-on-one coaching, professional skill-building workshops, internship and job placement, and a powerful alumni network, you’ll leave Southwestern with more than a diploma—you’ll graduate with momentum.

  • 97% of graduates are employed or in graduate school within 10 months of graduation
  • 68% of students complete at least one internship or field experience
  • Average starting salary for the Class of 2023: $52,045 (Top salary: $125,000)
  • 89% of students graduate in four years, far above the national average
  • 55% of alumni earn $100,000 or more just 10 years after graduation

Why Career Success Starts with the Liberal Arts — and CCPD

A liberal arts education gives you the ability to think across disciplines, adapt to change, and lead in a dynamic world. CCPD makes sure you know how to put those strengths to work.

Starting with your personal career roadmap, you’ll build the tools and confidence to pursue a future that fits your goals. Whether you’re developing professional skills, exploring career options, or applying for internships, CCPD ensures your Southwestern education is both broad and boldly practical.

Your Investment Pays Off:
$84,000 ROI, 10 years after graduation
$490,000 ROI, 20 years after graduation
$1,096,000 ROI, 40 years after graduation

Source: Center on Education and the Workforce

Where Are They Now?

Curious where Southwestern students go after graduation? Explore our Post-Graduate survey:

From Austin to New York, from Fortune 500 companies to groundbreaking nonprofits, our students go far, and they go prepared.

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you’re exploring majors or prepping for your next interview, CCPD is here for you, every step of the way.

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Center for Career & Professional Development News

The Princeton Review Recognizes Southwestern University as One of the Nation’s Best Colleges for 2026

Led by dedicated faculty, top-notch career services, and a vibrant campus community, Southwestern University has again earned recognition as one of the top institutions in the country.

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Southwestern University Provides Gateway to Opportunity Amid Evolving Higher Education Landscape

As perspectives surrounding higher education shift, Southwestern University is doubling down on the impact and value of a liberal arts education.

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TASPA Winners 2026

Two SU seniors earn pre-service teacher scholarships

For the 26th consecutive year, Southwestern students have earned recognition as pre-service teachers from the Texas Association of School Personnel Administrators, human resources professionals who staff school districts. Brooke Buraglia ’26, history major and special education minor from Liberty Hill, TX, and Emily Marks ’26, elementary education major and special education minor from Cypress, TX, are among the organization’s 2026 scholarship winners.

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