Waldorf Graduates Pursue Meaningful Careers
March 14, 2025
Will My Child Succeed After Waldorf High School? The Research Says Yes
Choosing a high school is a critical decision, and parents often wonder: Will this education prepare my child for college, career, and life?
For families considering Waldorf high schools, this question is especially relevant. With experiential learning, seminar-style discussions, and an interdisciplinary curriculum, can Waldorf truly equip students for fields like medicine, law, technology, and business?
Decades of research say yes.
Waldorf Graduates Excel in Higher Education and Careers
A 60-year study (Survey of Waldorf Graduates, Phase II, Mitchell & Gerwin, 2007) found that:
- 94% of Waldorf graduates attend college.
- 42% major in science-related fields—more than double the national average.
- Many earn advanced degrees in medicine, law, engineering, business, and the arts.
- Alumni thrive in fields ranging from finance and research to entrepreneurship and sustainability.
Waldorf Alumni Spotlight: Science in Action
After earning a degree in Earth Systems Engineering from the University of Michigan, Gavin Chensue ('06) joined the NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps, leading critical climate studies worldwide.
"Steiner education gave me a taste of everything. When I needed direction in college, I remembered how much I loved studying weather and geology—and that led me to where I am today." - Gavin Chensue (RSSAA '06), Research Engineer at SRI International, Former NOAA Corps Officer
His story highlights how Waldorf graduates succeed in STEM, combining curiosity and real-world problem-solving to make a global impact.
Read the full studies:
- Survey of Waldorf Graduates, Phase II: https://www.waldorfeducation.org/research
- Into the World Study: https://www.waldorfeducation.org/graduate-outcomes
What Makes a Waldorf Education So Effective?
Contrary to the belief that test-driven education leads to success, research shows that employers and universities highly value graduates who:
✔ Think critically and independently
✔ Communicate clearly and persuasively
✔ Collaborate effectively
✔ Solve complex problems
✔ Adapt to a changing world
These are precisely the skills Waldorf high schools cultivate.
1. Depth Over Memorization: Lifelong Knowledge Retention
Rather than rote memorization, Waldorf fosters deep understanding:
- History is explored through primary sources and narratives.
- Science emphasizes hands-on experiments and independent research.
- Mathematics focuses on real-world application.
- Literature and philosophy encourage analytical discussions.
One employer noted:
“Waldorf students don’t just look for the right answer—they explore the why and how behind complex issues.”
2. Seminar-Style Learning Develops Exceptional Communicators
Waldorf emphasizes oral presentations, debates, and collaborative discussions, preparing graduates for leadership roles in law, finance, business, and medicine.
Dr. Ilan Safit, co-author of *Into the World*, states:
“We consistently hear that Waldorf graduates excel at teamwork and leadership. Their ability to articulate complex ideas is a major asset.”
A study from Da Vinci Waldorf School found that Waldorf students select careers based on values and passion rather than prestige or income.
Final Thoughts: The Research Speaks for Itself
Professors and employers highlight Waldorf graduates’ intellectual curiosity and ability to think independently.
With strong college attendance rates, success across multiple professions, and the skills needed to navigate a complex world, one thing is clear:
Waldorf graduates don’t just succeed—they thrive.
Professors and employers highlight Waldorf graduates’ intellectual curiosity and ability to think independently.
With strong college attendance rates, success across multiple professions, and the skills needed to navigate a complex world, one thing is clear:
Waldorf graduates don’t just succeed—they thrive.
Read more on Waldorf Graduates