INTRODUCTION

Graduate outcome analysis is a comprehensive evaluation of the employment prospects, career trajectories, and overall success of university graduates after completing their studies. It provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of academic programmes, the relevance of the curriculum to the job market, and the overall value proposition of a university's offerings. By examining the outcomes of their alumni, institutions can assess the strengths and weaknesses of their educational approach, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions to enhance the student experience and career preparedness.

In this article, we will undertake a detailed graduate outcome analysis of the University of Exeter, a prestigious research-intensive institution located in the southwest of England. Rather than focusing on specific departments, we will take a holistic view of the university's performance, examining the overall trends and patterns that emerge across various academic disciplines.

The University of Exeter is renowned for its academic excellence, world-class research, and commitment to providing a transformative educational experience. By analysing the graduate outcomes of its students, we aim to shed light on the university's ability to prepare its graduates for successful careers and contribute to the broader economic and societal landscape.

OVERALL EMPLOYMENT AND FURTHER STUDY TRENDS

The University of Exeter consistently demonstrates strong graduate outcomes, with a significant proportion of students securing employment or pursuing further studies upon graduation. According to the latest data from the 2020/21 academic year, 82% of respondents were either in employment or engaged in unpaid work, a testament to the university's success in equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in the job market.

As illustrated in the figure below, the majority of these graduates (61%) were engaged in full-time employment, reflecting a 4 percentage point increase compared to the 2019/20 cohort. This upward trend is particularly encouraging, as it suggests that Exeter graduates are in high demand and able to secure stable, long-term career opportunities.

Source: University of Exeter

While full-time employment remains the dominant path for Exeter graduates, a notable portion (10%) chose to combine employment with further study, highlighting the university's ability to foster lifelong learners and individuals committed to continuous professional development.

Unemployment rates among the 2020/21 cohort stood at a commendable 5%, representing a 1 percentage point decrease from the previous year and a 2 percentage point decrease from 2018/19. This low unemployment rate is a testament to the marketability of an Exeter degree and the university's efforts to prepare students for the workforce.

Regarding further study, 7% of the 2020/21 graduates pursued full-time advanced degrees, a 1 percentage point decrease from the previous year. While this slight decline may raise concerns, it should be noted that the University of Exeter consistently ranks among the top institutions for research output and quality, suggesting that its graduates are well-equipped to undertake rigorous postgraduate programmes.

Additionally, the data reveals a marginal decrease in the proportion of graduates engaged in part-time study, from 1% in 2019/20 to less than 1% in 2020/21. This trend aligns with the broader shift towards full-time employment and the desire for stability and career advancement among recent graduates.

GENDER PAY GAP ANALYSIS

While the overall employment and further study outcomes paint a positive picture, the graduate outcome analysis also sheds light on a concerning issue: the persistent gender pay gap among Exeter graduates. According to the data, male full-time, first-degree graduates in full-time paid employment in the UK consistently earn a higher median salary than their female counterparts. 

In the 2020/21 academic year, the median salary for male graduates increased from £25,000 in 2019/20 to £27,000, while the median salary for female graduates remained unchanged. This disparity raises questions about equal pay for equal work and highlights the need for concerted efforts to address gender-based pay inequities.

Furthermore, the pay gap was found to be most significant among graduates in high-skilled employment. This trend suggests that while Exeter graduates may initially secure comparable entry-level positions, the gender pay gap widens as they progress into more senior roles and higher-paying positions.

Interestingly, the data also reveals that for both genders, the pay gap between medium and high-skilled workers was larger than the gap between low and medium-skilled workers. This finding underscores the challenges faced by women in breaking through the proverbial "glass ceiling" and attaining equal representation and compensation in top-tier positions.

CONCLUSION

The graduate outcome analysis of the University of Exeter paints a largely positive picture, with strong employment rates, low unemployment, and a significant proportion of graduates pursuing further studies based on the latest data from 2020/21. These outcomes reflect the university's commitment to providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for success in a rapidly evolving job market.

However, the persistent gender pay gap remains a cause for concern, highlighting the need for continued efforts to promote gender equity and equal opportunities within various industries and sectors. By addressing this issue head-on and implementing targeted initiatives, the University of Exeter can further enhance its reputation as an institution that fosters inclusivity, diversity, and equal access to career advancement.

As of now, the university has not yet released comprehensive graduate outcome data for 2022 and 2023. Once this information becomes available, a more up-to-date analysis can be conducted to identify emerging trends and the impact of any new measures or programmes aimed at improving graduate prospects and narrowing gender pay disparities.

Ultimately, the graduate outcome analysis serves as a valuable tool for the University of Exeter to assess its strengths, identify areas for improvement, and make informed decisions that will benefit both current and future students. By continuously monitoring and analysing these outcomes, the university can ensure that its academic programmes remain relevant, its graduates are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge, and its commitment to excellence and equity is upheld.