What do former students think?
The Swedish Defence University regularly conducts surveys among former students to understand how they experienced their education and how the transition to working life has turned out.
The results from the 2025 alumni survey show that the majority are very satisfied with both their time as students and their opportunities after graduation. (Students from the Officer´s Programme did not participate in the survey.)
Key Findings
- High engagement: Four out of five alumni would recommend the Swedish Defence University to others.
- Labour market integration: Four out of five alumni were employed within 12 months of completing their studies. Many hold qualified roles in the public sector, defence, and crisis management – but also within private industry.
- Salary development: 41 per cent of alumni earn between SEK 35,000–44,999, and 19 per cent earn between SEK 45,000–54,999.
- Leadership in focus: A large proportion of alumni already have leadership or project responsibilities, even if not in a formal managerial positions.
- The value of internships: The internship course included in several programmes is frequently highlighted as particularly valuable for gaining a foothold in the labour market.
- International outlook: An increasing number of alumni work abroad – 14 per cent compared to 8 per cent in the previous survey.
Alumni free-text responses from the survey
I really appreciated that the Swedish Defence University is a small and personal institution with committed and knowledgeable teachers.
I valued the sense of community, the close relationships between students and teachers, and the way the education uniquely combines civilian and military perspectives.
The studies are of high quality and provide excellent opportunities for qualified employment directly after graduation.