More Graduates In Employment

24th September 2012

Figures published today show a further boost in the number of graduates from Scottish universities taking up employment or remaining in education.

88.5 per cent of graduates in 2010/11 found jobs or went into further study, a 0.7 per cent increase on the previous year.

Scotland's universities also lead the UK in graduate employment while also showing a decrease in unemployed graduates, down 0.5 percentage points to 5.9 per cent.

Education Secretary Michael Russell said:

"Today's figures confirm the value of our universities and a Scottish education. The most recent statistics from the UK on graduate destinations showed that Scotland has the best outcomes for those leaving Higher Education with a qualification.

"Information from UCAS also shows that many students from England and Wales view our universities as the right place to study and our institutions also continue to do well in world rankings for academic excellence.

"Last week's budget confirmed the importance placed on Higher Education by the Scottish Government and we will continue with free higher education and protected student places for Scots and EU students. Scotland also has the best higher student support package in the UK, including a guaranteed minimum income of £7,250 for the most vulnerable students.

"The information being published today is further evidence that studying in Scotland gives students, regardless of where they're from, a firm footing to take up employment or further studies."

Statistics
www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2012/09/5552