By Gavin Mackintosh-
The proportion of recent graduates from Oxford Brookes University who are gainfully employed is below the average UK employment rate for the cohort, new figures show.
The data also revealed that the number of recent graduates from Oxford Brookes University who found work was above the UK average for the same cohort of Oxford university students whose employment rate was below average.
Student survey data from the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) shows 76 per cent of the University of Oxford graduates in 2020-21 were either employed or in unpaid work, lower than the UK average for higher education graduates that year of 82 per cent.
The proportion of the University of Oxford graduates in work included 59 per cent of respondents who said they were in full-time employment, 7 per cent in part-time employment, 9 per cent who were employed while also in full-time study and about 1 per cent in volunteer or unpaid work.
The data showed 85 per cent of Oxford Brookes University graduates in 2020-21 were either employed or in unpaid work.
The data also showed that the proportion of Oxford Brookes University graduates in work included 64 per cent of respondents who said they were in full-time employment, 11 per cent in part-time employment, 10 per cent who were employed while also in full-time study and about 1 per cent in volunteer or unpaid work.
The HESA survey contacts recipients of higher education qualifications about 15 months after their graduation with the aim of gathering statistics on their employment and study activities.
Oxford Brookes is part of University Alliance, the voice of professional and technical universities, and the Oxford-Cambridge ARC Universities Group which fosters collaboration, research, skills and innovation.
Oxford Brookes University is world leading in 19 subjects, according to the latest global rankings published today. The 2023 QS World University Rankings place three subjects at Oxford Brookes among the top 100 globally.
The leading modern British university, known for its strengths in teaching, innovative approaches to learning, and its focus on employability is ranked 6th in the UK for teaching (Times Higher Education Young University)
Heidi Fraser Kraus, chief executive of Jisc, which acquired HESA in 2022, said: “The results of the latest Graduate Outcomes survey provide valuable insight into the progress of graduates who left university or college to enter a world still reeling from Covid-19.
“While the employment and salary statistics show graduates doing well, their reflections on their own priorities and wellbeing are particularly illuminating.”
Responding to the question on whether they felt they were currently utilising what they learnt during their studies, around 72 per cent of recent graduates from the University of Oxford agreed or strongly agreed.
Whilst 69 per cent of recent graduates from Oxford Brookes University agreed or strongly agreed.
Additionally, 84 per cent agreed or strongly agreed that their current activity, whether working, studying or unemployed, fits with their future plans.
And at Oxford Brookes University 77 per cent agreed or strongly agreed.
Professor Steve West, president of Universities UK, which represents the top 140 universities in the country, said the data confirms a degree continues to give a significant boost to employment prospects despite uncertain economic times.
He said: “In fact, there has been a four percentage point increase in the proportion of graduates in 2020-21 in full-time employment compared with the previous year,” he added.
“The benefits of going to university are not confined to salary and employability outcomes. Many graduates go on to work in roles that are vital to our economy and society, and meaningful to graduates even though starting salaries may be lower.”
The Significance of Employment Rates
Employment rates serve as an essential metric for assessing the success of a university in preparing students for the job market.
A higher proportion of graduates finding work is generally considered a positive reflection of the institution’s quality and the effectiveness of its programs. It suggests that the education provided is relevant, practical, and valued by employers. In the case of Oxford University, an above-average employment rate indicates that its graduates are sought after and that their qualifications are highly regarded by employers.
The institution’s rigorous academic programs, world-class faculty, and extensive resources all contribute to the development of highly skilled and knowledgeable graduates. Employers often perceive Oxford graduates as being intellectually rigorous, disciplined, and capable of excelling in demanding professional environments.
Employers are likely to have high expectations of graduates from such a prestigious institution and may actively seek out Oxford graduates for their organizations. The employment success of Oxford graduates may also be attributed to the extensive alumni network and the university’s strong connections with various industries, facilitating access to job opportunities.
Comparative Analysis for Objective Assessment
While an above-average employment rate among Oxford graduates is undoubtedly a positive reflection, it analysts say it does not give an accurate reflection of the advantages of an Oxford University education without a direct comparison of employment rates across universities and an understanding of the potential reasons graduates of some universities may face greater challenges in finding employment.
Researcher Joshua and former teacher, Joshua Hopwood told The Eye Of Media.Com: ”Conducting a comparative analysis allows us to assess whether the higher employment rate is a result of factors unique to Oxford or if it is a trend observed across multiple universities.
”This analysis can involve considering factors such as regional job market conditions, industry-specific demands, and the reputation and focus of different universities.
”One significant factor that can influence employment rates is the overall economic climate. During periods of economic recession or instability, job opportunities may become scarce, affecting graduates from even the most esteemed universities. Economic downturns can lead to reduced hiring, layoffs, and decreased investment in new talent, resulting in increased competition for limited positions.
”Certain industries may face challenges or decline during a particular period, leading to lower employment rates for graduates in those fields. Changes in technology, market dynamics, or government policies can impact specific sectors. For instance, the decline of traditional print media has affected job prospects for journalism graduates, while fluctuations in the energy sector can impact opportunities for engineering or renewable energy graduates.
Skill Mismatch/Work experience
”Another reason for below-average employment rates could be a mismatch between the skills possessed by graduates and the skills demanded by the job market. While prestigious universities like Oxford offer comprehensive curricula, the evolving needs of industries and employers can outpace the skills taught in traditional academic settings.
As a result, graduates may struggle to find suitable employment if their skill set does not align with current market demands.
”Work experience and networking is another factor that can temporarily affect employment chances of graduates from good universities.
”Employers often value work experience alongside academic qualifications. Students who solely focus on their studies and do not actively engage in internships, part-time jobs, or extracurricular activities may face challenges in securing employment. In competitive job markets, employers tend to prefer candidates with practical experience and a proven track record of applying knowledge in real-world settings.
”Networking plays a vital role in today’s job market. Students who are not actively involved in networking opportunities or lack strong connections within their desired industries may find it more challenging to secure employment. Many job openings are filled through referrals or personal connections, and individuals without access to such networks may face greater difficulty in finding suitable positions.
Geographical location can also impact employment rates. While prestigious universities like Oxford attract students from around the world, graduates may face challenges if they are limited to a particular region or if job opportunities are concentrated in specific areas. If a student’s desired industry or sector is not well-represented in their location, they may struggle to find employment, leading to below-average employment rates.
”It is worth noting that a comparative analysis does not diminish the positive reflection of Oxford education but rather places it within a broader perspective. It provides valuable insights into how well Oxford graduates fare compared to graduates from other reputable institutions, and whether the university’s programs equip students with a competitive edge in the job market”.
Joshua continued: ”Comparative data is highly relevant in evaluating the employment outcomes of Oxford graduates. It helps us understand the unique strengths and weaknesses of the university’s programs and identify areas for improvement. By comparing employment rates, industries of employment, and career trajectories between Oxford and other universities, policymakers and educational institutions can gain valuable insights to enhance their curricula and career support services.
”Comparative data assists prospective students in making informed decisions about their higher education choices. It provides them with a clearer understanding of the employment prospects associated with attending Oxford and helps them assess whether the university aligns with their career aspirations and goals.