The University of Northampton has lost its status as number one in England for graduate employability but has retained a place as one of the top three institutions, figures released today have shown.
Data released by the Higher Education Statistics Agency shows 95.7 per cent of graduates last year have secured employment since leaving the university.
The town’s university is the third best in the country for graduate employability behind the University of Buckingham, 96.9 per cent, and the University of Derby, 96.1 per cent but above the University of Oxford, 92 per cent, and the University of Cambridge, 94.9 per cent.
Professor Nick Petford, vice chancellor of the University of Northampton, said: “Our employability figure remains strong at 95.7 per cent. This is great news for the university and for all our students; whether new graduates, undergraduates or those still contemplating their further education options in this challenging economic climate.
“The Destination of Higher Education Leavers statistics once again recognises our commitment to the employability prospects of our graduates.
“We know that our graduates leave us with more than just great qualifications in their chosen field; now we have the statistics to prove that.
“Our University Centre for Employability and Engagement helps our students develop their employability skills, through placements and internship opportunities; as well as working with students to develop their confidence and work place competence to give them a competitive edge in their chose industry.”
The figures show that 82.5 per cent of students at the University of Northampton responded to the survey.
Cali sullivan, a journalism student at the University of Northampton, said: “I’m really happy I chose to go to the University of Northampton, in just my first year alone i have been given so many opportunities, including an internship with their very own press office, writing for the University paper and I’ve even been mentioned in the Guardian.
“My lecturers and other staff have encouraged me every step of the way to build contacts and take part in as much work experience as I can.
“I have no doubt in my mind, that the help and guidance I’ve been given will help me find my ideal job at the end of my degree.”