American Colleges With The Highest-Earning Graduates From Coast to Coast

16. Cornell University – Ithaca, New York

Cornell University combines Ivy League prestige with a strong emphasis on practical, career-oriented education, making it a top producer of high-earning graduates. The university’s College of Engineering and Johnson Graduate School of Management are particularly renowned, preparing students for roles in fields like technology, finance, and healthcare. Graduates frequently land jobs with starting salaries above $80,000, with many advancing to leadership positions at major corporations like Goldman Sachs, Amazon, and IBM. Cornell also emphasizes experiential learning, offering students opportunities to work on real-world projects through its extensive research programs and industry partnerships. Its Engineering Cooperative Education program, for example, allows students to gain hands-on experience while earning competitive pay. Alumni often credit the university’s strong network of industry connections and mentorship opportunities for their professional success. Cornell’s focus on interdisciplinary studies ensures that graduates are well-rounded, adaptable, and prepared to excel in a rapidly changing job market.