Fiona Lucas
Head of Employability and Enterprise
18 September 2025
In today’s dynamic job market, having a degree from a reputable university is no longer a guaranteed ticket to securing a good job. While academic qualifications remain important, they are now just one piece of a more complex puzzle. There are many reasons for this shift, including the evolving demands of employers, technological advancements, and the reduction in graduate jobs.
Firstly, the rapid pace of technological innovation has transformed industries and created new roles that didn’t exist a decade ago. Employers are seeking candidates who not only have theoretical knowledge but also the ability to adapt to new tools, software, and methodologies. For instance, fields like data science, digital marketing, and cybersecurity require specific technical skills that may not be fully covered in traditional university curricula. Candidates with hands-on experience, certifications, or practical projects often stand out more than those with just an academic degree.
Secondly, the job market has become increasingly competitive. A good university degree was once a distinguishing factor, but with the expansion of higher education, more graduates are entering the workforce than ever before. This surge means that employers have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, prompting them to look beyond academic qualifications. They now place greater emphasis on work experience, internships, and extracurricular activities that demonstrate a candidate’s initiative, leadership, and problem-solving abilities.
In addition, soft skills have gained significant importance. Communication, teamwork, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence are crucial in almost every profession. While universities provide opportunities to develop these skills, they are often not the primary focus of academic programmes. Employers value candidates who can work well in diverse teams, have the flexibility to learn new skills, demonstrate resilience and collaborate well with others, qualities that are best honed through real-world experiences rather than classroom lectures.
Additionally, the rise of the gig economy and entrepreneurial ventures has shifted perceptions of career success. Many young professionals are now pursuing freelance work, startups, or portfolio careers that prioritise flexibility and personal growth over traditional employment. In such environments, practical skills, networking, and a proactive mindset often outweigh formal qualifications. This trend also means that employers are increasingly valuing candidates who demonstrate an entrepreneurial spirit and the ability to manage projects independently.
Lastly, globalisation has intensified competition for jobs, as companies can hire talent from around the world. In this global talent pool, having a degree from a prestigious university may not be enough to secure a position. Multilingual abilities, cultural competence, and international experience can give candidates a competitive edge.
What can students do to give themselves the best chance of success?
Consider degree apprenticeships—these “earn whilst you learn” schemes are often overlooked. However, they offer a head start on a graduate, whilst providing real-world job experience without the burden of debt.
Consider courses/universities that offer work placements as part of the course. Companies & students use this as a “try before you buy”, often offering a graduation position at the end of placement. This takes the pressure off the final year managing applications, interviews & exams. Those universities that invest in strong career services unsurprisingly tend to be those that have the best graduate employment outcomes.
Work experience is important, whether that is virtual, in person, volunteering or work shadowing. All these demonstrate, enthusiasm, initiative, drive, all skills companies want candidates to demonstrate. They also allow students to explore their strengths & weaknesses which help their future choices.
In conclusion, while a degree from a good university remains a valuable asset, it is no longer sufficient to secure a good job. Today’s job market demands a combination of academic knowledge, practical skills, relevant experience, and personal attributes. Graduates must be proactive here to stand out in an increasingly competitive landscape.