UK universities are known for their strong reputation for graduate employability and their ability to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the workplace. Their excellent records in graduate job prospects enhance the country’s standing as a preferred destination for higher education and underscore the value of a UK university degree in terms of career prospects.
According to the Global University Employability Ranking 2023-24 published by Times Higher Education, 13 UK universities have been recognised for their excellence in preparing students for the job market. Six universities are based in London, while the rest are in the UK. The University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford secured the top two positions in the UK university graduate employability rankings, making them the only UK institutions in the top 10 of the global Graduate Employability Ranking.
Top 10 UK Universities for Graduate Employability
1. University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge equips students with valuable skills for the job market, resulting in exceptional graduate employability. Its rigorous academic programmes and renowned faculty prepare students for success and secure prestigious positions worldwide. Cambridge fosters critical thinking, innovation, and leadership, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their professional journey. The university's global prestige extends through its vast alumni network, with graduates in influential positions across various domains. Over 400 alumni groups worldwide foster collaboration and community.
While Cambridge is known for its traditional tutorial system, it embraces pedagogical innovation and supports creative teaching approaches through grants.
2. University of Oxford
The University of Oxford offers exceptional lifelong career support, advice, exclusive resources, and opportunities. According to the most recent Graduate Outcomes Survey, nearly 80% of recent research graduates from Oxford were employed by an employer, with less than 3% unemployed. Most employed graduates secured graduate-level jobs in education, research and development, or health industries. Over half of the graduates reported that their jobs aligned with their career plans or were precisely what they desired. Furthermore, the survey revealed that 89% of graduates found their work meaningful and utilised the knowledge gained from their studies.
Oxford's graduate employability is further demonstrated by the high percentage of graduates in paid work and the diverse range of industries and occupations they entered.
3. Imperial College London
Imperial College London, situated in the vibrant city of London, provides abundant opportunities for graduate job prospects. The university demonstrates a proactive commitment to supporting students' career development through various initiatives. Regular career events, including talks, workshops, and mock interviews, allow students to engage with employers and cultivate valuable skills.
Imperial College extends its career support to graduates for up to three years after graduation, offering sustained guidance and assistance throughout their professional endeavours. The institution's emphasis on entrepreneurship and access to international companies creates a favourable environment, empowering students to embark on rewarding career paths at Imperial College London.
4. London School of Economics and Political Science
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) excels in graduate employability due to its prestigious reputation, attracting top employers and offering ample job prospects. LSE's rigorous academic programmes equip graduates with sought-after skills and knowledge. Its influential alumni network provides valuable networking and mentorship opportunities. The university's strong career services department offers tailored guidance, internships, and workshops, ensuring students are well-prepared for the competitive job market.
LSE's commitment to excellence and comprehensive support systems contribute to its outstanding graduate employability.
5. London Business School
London Business School is renowned as a prestigious institution, as demonstrated by the impressive job prospects of its graduates. In 2022, 94% of MBA graduates received job offers within three months of graduation, with 91% accepting these offers. The consulting sector remained the most popular choice, attracting 37% of graduates, including prestigious firms like McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group, and Bain & Company.
The tech and finance sectors also saw significant interest, with 29% and 27% of graduates pursuing careers in these fields. Moreover, 28 graduates utilized their entrepreneurial skills to launch their own business ventures.
6. University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is among the top universities in the UK. It is highly regarded by employers both in the UK and globally due to the high job prospects of its graduates. Ranked 42nd in the QS Graduate Employability Rankings (2022), the university is known for producing job-ready students. It is the most targeted university by top graduate employers in the UK, as stated in The Graduate Market (2023). The university focuses on nurturing independent critical thinking and analysis skills rather than solely focusing on exam performance.
Additionally, students and graduates can access a proactive Careers Service for career development, offering services such as CV and interview guidance, skills development workshops, work placements, and job opportunities from various recruiters.
7. King's College London
Established in 1829, King's College London (KCL) is esteemed as one of England's oldest universities and a founding college of the University of London. With three top-tier teaching hospitals, KCL attracts a vibrant community of over 27,000 students from 150 countries. The university's academic prowess spans various domains, encompassing law, humanities, social sciences, and healthcare.
KCL boasts an impressive lineup of twelve Nobel Prize laureates, including illustrious individuals like Maurice Wilkins and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Situated in the heart of London, KCL offers students an unparalleled advantage, fostering valuable connections and collaborations across diverse industries, organisations, and cultural spheres.
8. University College London
UCL Careers is a dedicated department at University College London that aims to support students and recent graduates in finding successful careers. Recognised as one of the world's leading universities, UCL strongly emphasises practical skills and critical thinking to prepare students for their chosen fields. The university's extensive network of industry connections provides abundant career opportunities, including internships, mentoring, and access to a comprehensive Careers Service.
The Careers department offers guidance on career choices, provides information on different job sectors, and helps students explore their options. They also assist in finding relevant work opportunities, provide support throughout the application process, and offer resources for improving CVs, interview skills, and aptitude tests. Top employers across various sectors highly seek UCL graduates.
9. University of St Andrews
The University of St Andrews is committed to fostering stronger connections with graduate employers, valuing their needs and highlighting the exceptional calibre of its graduates. The Careers Centre actively engages with employers, ensuring it stays well-informed about the latest recruitment trends. St Andrews has consistently been acknowledged for delivering the finest student academic experience in the UK, as the National Student Survey attests.
Furthermore, the Higher Education Statistics Agency reported that 96% of St Andrews students secure employment or pursue advanced studies within six months of graduating. The Careers Centre and CAPOD (Careers and Personal Development Centre) work hand in hand to assist students in cultivating essential employability skills and attitudes, complimenting their academic endeavours.
10. University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is one of the best universities in the UK. It is highly regarded for the employability of its graduates, ranking in the top 10 in the UK. Employers value Edinburgh graduates' intellectual ability and transferable skills, considering them well-equipped to succeed in the working world. Recruiters recognise the university as a top choice for talented graduates, with high rankings in terms of employer demand. Studying at Edinburgh provides career development, skill enhancement, and personal growth opportunities.
The university emphasises the long-term success of its students, encouraging their efforts beyond graduation. Furthermore, Edinburgh has a strong entrepreneurial culture, supporting student entrepreneurs through various programmes and services.
Most Employable Degrees in the UK
The UK offers a range of highly employable degrees that pave the way for rewarding career paths. Here are some of the top choices:
- Medicine & Dentistry: Medicine and dentistry programmes boast an exceptional 99.4% employment rate within six months of graduating. Graduates can pursue diverse roles like anaesthetist, cardiologist, dentist, and general practice doctor, with salaries ranging from £30,000 to £50,373 per year.
- Allied Medicine Subjects: Fields like physiotherapy, health studies, and pharmacy exhibit a strong 95.3% employment rate within six months of graduation. Graduates can explore rewarding careers as dieticians, nutritionists, occupational therapists, and physiotherapists, earning an expected salary of £34,137.
- Education: Education graduates demonstrate a commendable 94.4% employment rate or the option to pursue further study. Career paths encompass early years teaching, primary school teaching, and teaching assistant roles. The expected salary for education professionals is £19,000.
- Architecture: Architecture graduates enjoy a respectable 90.1% employment rate within six months of graduation. Exciting prospects include architect, CAD technician, and urban designer roles, with an expected salary of £27,000.
- Law: Law graduates exhibit a solid 89.9% employment rate or the choice to pursue advanced studies within six months of graduating. Career opportunities encompass solicitor, arbitrator, and barrister roles. The expected salary for legal professionals is £25,000.
Study in the UK
Do you want to study at a UK university famed for its graduate employability? Contact SI-UK today for a free consultation on your academic future.
Graduate Employability FAQ
Which UK university has the highest employment rate?
The University of Cambridge in the UK consistently ranks among the universities with the highest employment rates, according to the Global University Employability Ranking 2024. Its strong reputation for academic excellence and its close ties with industry contribute to the high employability of its graduates.
Which university graduates are most employable?
In the UK, universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College London are renowned for their employability rates and alumni success.
What is the most targeted university by the UK's top graduate employers?
Some of the universities that are frequently targeted by top graduate employers in the UK include:
- University of Oxford
- University of Cambridge
- Imperial College London
- London School of Economics and Political Science
- University College London
Which degree is highly demanded in the UK?
STEM degrees, encompassing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, hold significant demand in the UK. These disciplines cater to numerous industries, reflecting the nation's commitment to stay at the forefront of technology and scientific advancements.
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