The latest HEA survey shows that 78 per cent of graduates with primary degrees in engineering went directly into employment, with 12 per cent option for research or further study. Three per cent were seeking work while 4.6 per cent were not available for work or study.

The HEA survey provides a snapshot of where the graduates of 1998 were last April and is a useful indicator of graduate demand. The demand for engineering graduates has pushed up starting salaries. Almost two-thirds of those surveyed said they were earning in excess of £15,000. In all, 16 per cent were earning more than £19,000 and only 0.5 per cent were earning less than £5,000 per annum.

At certificate/diploma level the pattern of graduate employment is somewhat different with more students continuing their studies and fewer entering the marketplace directly.