After years of lectures, seminars, late-night study sessions, and navigating the ups and downs of university life, the moment has finally arrived: you’re stepping into the professional world as a graduate. The hard work, dedication, and investment in your future are about to pay off, as you embark on the journey of building your career.
The graduate job market in 2025 brings both opportunities and challenges, shaped by economic changes and evolving workplace priorities. In response to shifting market demands, businesses have adjusted their graduate salary offerings, striving to attract top talent and remain competitive. As you plan your next steps, what can you expect from starting salaries this year? Let’s dive into the latest insights on the UK’s average graduate salary and what it means for you.
As a graduate recruitment consultancy, we take pride in connecting graduates with exciting career opportunities every week. This year, we’ve seen an encouraging rise in average starting salaries for graduates, with most beginning their careers at around £28,000—an increase from £27,000 in 2024.
Of course, starting salaries vary depending on factors like the role, location, and prior experience. For example, graduates launching their careers in London can expect higher starting pay, with the average currently at approximately £30,000.
We’re also pleased to note that many of our graduates benefit from salary reviews and increases within their first six months, reflecting their growing value to employers.
Search and apply for our graduate jobs here >
According to Indeed.com:
“The national average salary of those on a graduate scheme is £29,500 per year. This figure includes both new graduates and graduates with experience. Graduate salaries depend on your experience level, the subject you’ve studied, the type of roles you apply for after graduation and where you choose to work. In general, jobs in London and the South East pay more than other areas of the country. This varies between industries, with some industries offering higher salaries outside of London.”
The subject you studied at university can significantly influence the salary you earn after graduation. Check out the data below to see how your field of study compares.
| Subject area of degree | Graduate starting salary |
|---|---|
| Agriculture, food and related studies | £24,875 |
| Architecture, building and planning | £26,944 |
| Biological and sport sciences | £24,988 |
| Business and management | £26,996 |
| Combined and general studies | £27,974 |
| Computing | £29,933 |
| Design and creative and performing arts | £24,000 |
| Education and teaching | £28,000 |
| Engineering and technology | £30,998 |
| Geography, earth and environmental sciences (natural sciences) | £26,900 |
| Geography, earth and environmental sciences (social sciences) | £27,422 |
| Historical, philosophical and religious studies | £25,968 |
| Language and area studies | £25,485 |
| Law | £23,981 |
| Mathematical sciences | £30,450 |
| Media, journalism and communications | £23,975 |
| Medicine and dentistry | £34,950 |
| Physical sciences | £28,781 |
| Psychology | £24,917 |
| Social sciences | £28,000 |
| Subjects allied to medicine | £27,998 |
| Veterinary sciences | £32,750 |
Source: savethestudent.org
While earning a good salary is important, it’s not worth sacrificing your happiness or dreading going to work every day for the sake of an extra paycheck. Striking the right balance between enjoying your work, earning a fair wage, and considering additional benefits is key.
What matters most will differ for everyone, so take the time to make a decision that feels right for you. And remember, your first role doesn’t define your entire career—if you find it’s not the right fit, you can always reassess, learn from the experience, and seek a role that better aligns with your goals.
