GCU joint top Scottish university for graduate full-time employment

GCU is the joint top university in Scotland for graduates who are in full-time work 15 months after completing their studies.

The findings are from the latest Graduate Outcomes survey, conducted by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA). 

The national survey captures information about the activities and perspectives of graduates 15 months after they finish their studies. These latest findings relate to our 2018/19 cohort of graduates, most of whom will have been surveyed at points throughout 2020. 

The findings show that 90% of GCU graduates are in employment – be that full-time, part-time or unpaid – and/or further study, which is above the Scottish and UK rates of 88% and 89% respectively. 

When only full-time employment is considered, we are joint first in Scotland (alongside the University of Strathclyde) at 65%, compared to the Scottish average of 57%. 

When highly-skilled occupations are considered, GCU is the top Scottish modern university at 80%, above the Scottish rate of 78%. 

A total of 5% of GCU graduates are unemployed, in line with the Scottish and UK rates.

The results are extremely positive, particularly given the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, and reflect the University's industry-informed curriculum and strong links with employers in the private, public and third sectors. 

The Graduate Outcomes survey replaced the Destination of Leavers from Higher Education (DLHE) survey in 2018. It is a new survey, which first commenced with the 2017/18 graduate cohort.

The results from the survey will be analysed and used by the University to better support our students and graduates. The information is also useful to advise current and prospective students about the employment and study opportunities that might be available to them after leaving GCU.