Graduate destinations

Choosing what to do when you leave Oxford may not be your top priority. You have, after all, years to make that decision - and then even more opportunity to change it. However, it’s still worth knowing these quick facts...

1. You will almost certainly be employed on leaving.
   Nearly 95% of all Oxford leavers are in work or further study six months after leaving. This has been about the same (+/- 1%) for at least the last twenty years.
2. Your degree subject doesn’t limit the jobs you can get.
   (Unless it’s a medical career – but even then, you can always take a postgraduate medical course.) 60% of the jobs advertised through the Careers Service don’t specify the degree subject.
3. There are more jobs advertised through the Careers Service than students to fill them.
   More than 5,000 opportunities were advertised last year on Oxford’s online system, CareerConnect. The number of jobs advertised has been growing at over 20% every year for the last four years.
4. The average starting salary last year was £25,000.
   Depending on sector, it can range from £10,000 right up to £45,000.

Surveys of employers report that they find Oxford students ‘better’, or ‘much better’, than the average UK student at key employability skills such as problem solving, leadership, and communication. Hundreds of recruiters visit the University each year, demonstrating their demand for Oxford students.

"Oxford students are self-starters, who are able to intelligently apply themselves to a range of tasks. They are often able to manage their time effectively, and confidently present themselves in professional situations."
Academic Research Think Tank

"The Oxford system produces graduates who are able to think independently and creatively, and above all, know how to go about continual learning. In our business, the ability to handle new situations, and new skills, is much more important than any specific vocational or subject-specific training."
IT Services Firm

"Bright, talented people with an optimistic outlook and excellent communications skills."
Large Management Consultancy Firm

"One can rely on the quality of the training, level of reasoning and problem solving ability, integrity, and respect of Oxford students."
Engineering & Environmental Services Firm

For details of the support available to students in going on to further study, or beginning your career, please see the Careers Service.