Forbes names K-State a top employer for new graduates

By Vikki Watson

K-State News and Communication Services

Wednesday, May 20, 2026

Kansas State University is one of just seven colleges and universities in the Big 12 conference and one of 40 nationally to be named by Forbes on May 19 as a top employer among new graduates.

The recognition highlights the university’s commitment to be an employer of choice in Kansas and higher education, providing K-State employees — including young professionals — with the opportunities and resources they need to thrive.

This marks the fifth time over the last 15 months that K-State has been recognized for excellence as an employer.

In January 2026, the university was recognized as a 2026 dream employer among students and employees. In August 2025, K-State earned the No. 3 spot on Forbes’ list of best employers in Kansas, the highest ranking of any college or university in the state. In July 2025, the university ranked No. 3 on Forbes’ list of America's Best Employers for Women, and in February 2025 was recognized as one of America's Best Midsize Employers.

K-State ranked No. 88 overall among the 500 organizations on the top employers for new graduates list. K-State ranked No. 9 among the 40 colleges and universities on the list.

K-State was ranked No. 9 among colleges and universities and was also one of only seven Big 12 Conference peers to make the list. The Big 12 rankings include Baylor College of Medicine at No. 22, Arizona State University at No. 36, University of Utah at No. 55, Texas Tech University at No. 84, Oklahoma State University at No. 171, and Iowa State University at No. 255.

The recognition is based on an independent survey of over 100,000 U.S. young professionals, defined as employees with less than 10 years of experience. More than 2 million employer evaluations were considered across a three-year period.