Mathematics and IT : Subjects

Employment figures for graduates from mathematics and information technology (IT) related degrees have benefited from the tentative recovery in the graduate labour market in 2010. They have traditionally favoured careers in business, finance and IT, areas where, according to the 2011 High Fliers report, graduate recruitment levels have seen a slow improvement in the past year, with an increase of 12.6% in vacancies.

The skills gained from undertaking a science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) degree are valued by companies across sectors (according to the Education and Skills Survey 2011 conducted by CBI, 41% of firms favour graduates from STEM degrees). Alongside their academic knowledge and technical ability, graduates can demonstrate their employability through evidence of ‘softer’ skills (e.g. team working, problem solving and creative thinking skills).

Gaining relevant work experience will enable graduates - in the application process - to demonstrate the skills and competencies required by the employer. The 2011 High Fliers report estimated that around a third of this year’s vacancies at top graduate recruiters are to be filled by applicants who have already worked for the company.

Find out in detail what the 2010 graduates for these subjects did next:

• Computer science and IT
• Mathematics