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Year after year, Boston College students secure employment or acceptance to graduate school at high rates. For the Class of 2024, for example, 96% of BC graduates were employed, enrolled in graduate school, or involved in a fellowship or volunteer experience within six months of graduation (Class of 2025 data will be available in the coming months). Employers continue to be impressed with Boston College candidates, earning the University a spot on LinkedIn’s first Top Colleges ranking, which identifies the 50 U.S. schools that “best set graduates up for long-term [career] success.” (Read more here.)

We know, however, that for many students and their families, there are growing concerns about job prospects for recent college graduates due to media reports about the impact of artificial intelligence and economic instability on the entry-level market. Below we answer the two most common questions we have been hearing this academic year. 

What does the job market look like for the Class of 2026?

According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), the 2026 job market for new graduates is expected to remain flat following two years of tighter hiring. Their fall survey showed that 60% of employers plan to maintain hiring levels from 2025, 25% plan to increase, and 14% expect a decrease.

The key factors cited for increased hiring include a commitment to developing a talent pipeline and company growth, while the key factors for decreased hiring are a reduction in business needs, an uncertain economy, and budget cuts. 

In this landscape, our advice for students becomes all the more important:

  • Refine Your Application Materials: Ensure your resumes and cover letters are polished. Visit the Career Center during drop-ins for a professional review.
  • Prioritize Networking: Don’t rely solely on online applications. Connect with professionals and BC alumni through Eagle Exchange and LinkedIn to boost your visibility.
  • Attend Events: Take advantage of the many opportunities on campus to connect with employers and alumni.  This includes BC-organized events, and company-hosted information sessions and interviews found on Handshake.


Is AI replacing entry-level employees?

Despite the headlines, NACE data shows that employers do not expect to replace entry-level roles with AI in the next five years. However, the nature of the work is shifting. According to PwC’s 2025 Global AI Jobs Barometer, success now requires a blend of technical fluency and uniquely human skills. 

As such, students must learn to use AI to become more efficient and effective while also demonstrating strong critical thinking, adaptability, creativity, and communication skills—strengths inherent in a BC liberal arts education. 

Tips You Can Pass Along to Your Student

Encourage your student to take advantage of the many programs and resources available to them. Some key programs and resources for the coming semester include:

Eagle Intern Fellowship

  • First Deadline | Monday, February 23
  • Second Deadline | Monday, March 30
  • Final Deadline | Monday, April 27

Career Design Toolkit: Students will be guided to reflect on their goals and begin designing a meaningful career path through this new asynchronous mini-course. Perfect for those who want to explore careers without course credit or more deadlines. Students will earn a digital badge upon completion. Students can self-enroll and get started today.

Encourage your students to mark their calendars now so they don’t miss the opportunity to connect with employers and alumni right here on campus. Students can find employer-hosted events on Handshake as they are scheduled. 

Here are some of the BC-hosted on-campus networking and recruiting events coming up this semester:

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