As the senior program coordinator of the Master of Management Studies: Duke Kunshan University (MMS: DKU) program, I have the privilege of witnessing the development and passion of our students each year. The Class of 2024 is a special group, united by their commitment to excellence in the classroom, a commitment I am confident they will carry into their professional lives. They secured impressive employment outcomes in the latest employment report, demonstrating their resilience in the face of a competitive global job market and the continued value of the MMS: DKU program in preparing them for success.

Shifts in Offer Timing and Location

Despite a challenging job market, students in the Class of 2024 adapted quickly, proactively defining their job search strategies and leveraging school and alumni resources. As a result, they achieved the fastest job search timeline since the Class of 2021, with 49% securing full-time positions before graduation. This success was made possible by the strong support from Fuqua’s Career Management Center and DKU career services.

Graduates reported an average base salary of 244,161 (RMB), aligning closely with the average salary in 2023. In terms of job location, the Class of 2024 showed a more diverse geographic distribution, rather than concentrating in major cities like Beijing (26%), Shanghai (18%), and Shenzhen (5%). Notably, 20% of graduates chose to work in other cities across China, such as Jiaxing and Shaoxing in Zhejiang province, Suzhou in Jiangsu province, and Xi’an in Shaanxi province.

Growth in Tech and General Management

The financial sector in China recruited fewer people last year due to regulatory tightening and cost-cutting measures by financial institutions. Despite these challenges, finance remained the top industry choice among graduates. There was also a notable increase in students pursuing careers in the technology sector, rising from 3% in 2023 to 17% this year. We find that some graduates prioritize career flexibility, innovation, and growth potential, which are often factors that align well with roles offered by tech companies and emerging industries.  

In terms of job functions, general management emerged as the most popular function among graduates, replacing finance. Many students leveraged their management expertise by starting as management trainees or international management trainees, gaining structured exposure to company operations.

I am truly impressed by the resilience and adaptability of the MMS: DKU Class of 2024. They navigated a challenging job market with determination, actively engaged in their coursework, and made full use of career resources to secure meaningful opportunities. Despite the uncertainties in the global economy, they have demonstrated strong problem-solving skills and a proactive mindset that employers value. I sincerely congratulate the Class of 2024 on their remarkable achievements and look forward to reconnecting with them at future Fuqua and DKU alumni events.