First Destination Survey (FDS)

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First Destination Survey (FDS)

What is the FDS?

The First Destination Survey (FDS) is a survey completed in Cardinal Careers by all soon-to-be or recently graduated students from the University of Louisville. The FDS captures information regarding how new college graduates fare in their careers within six months of graduation. The annual initiative provides clear, concise, and consistent data on the outcomes associated with a college education on a national scale. 

What types of questions are asked? 

  1. Employment status.
  2. If you are continuing education.
  3. If you are pursuing military, volunteer, or entrepreneurial work.
  4. Information about plans, i.e. name of employer/program, location, salary, etc.

The entire survey should take 5 minutes or less. 

Select your Graduation Date for the Survey

Students who have applied for graduation or are within six months of their graduation date can access their FDS by clicking on the appropriate link below:

Why Should You Complete the First Destination Survey?

By completing the First Destination Survey, you are contributing to a powerful source of data that helps you, future students, and the University of Louisville in meaningful ways. Here is how your response is used:

1

The Value of Your Degree is Protected

Survey results are essential to the accreditation of academic programs, colleges, and the university. Accreditation ensures that your degree continues to be recognized and respected by employers and graduate schools long after you graduate.

2

Boost Earning Potential and Create More Job Opportunities

The career centers use FDS salary data to hire UofL graduates at a competitive pay rate. Your data helps set a stronger baseline for future graduates. FDS results are shared anonymously with local economic development groups and the Chamber of Commerce to attract businesses to the Louisville area, leading to more quality jobs for you and fellow graduates.

3

Help Current and Future Students Make Informed Career Decisions

By sharing where you're headed, you help current and future students understand what career paths, employers, and salary ranges are connected to specific majors. Prospective students and their families want to know: “What can I do with this degree?” Your outcome helps showcase the value and success of an education from the University of Louisville.

4

Meet Federal Reporting Requirements

The FDS helps the university fulfill federal reporting mandates (Title IV of the Higher Education Act), ensuring compliance and transparency in post-graduation outcomes.

Learn more: UofL Public Disclosure of Student Achievement
See national salary data: College Scorecard – UofL

Note: National data sources may only include students who received federal financial aid—making your participation even more important to get the full picture.

5

Help Lower Tuition

State funding models are shifting to focus on graduate outcomes. Your data can help UofL make the case for increased funding, which supports lower tuition and more financial aid for future students.

6

Inform the Media with Accurate Data and Boost National Rankings

Reporters frequently ask about graduate outcomes. FDS data helps ensure the media shares a true and positive picture of UofL graduates' success. Publications like U.S. News & World Report rely on this data for college rankings. Strong outcomes help elevate the university’s profile and increase the value of your degree over time.

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Bottom Line:

Your experience matters. By completing the FDS, you're helping build a better future for yourself, your peers, and the next generation of Cardinals.