Engineering graduates: a quarter have regrets about their degree

As an influx of graduates receive their degrees this month, new research from CV-Library, the UK independent job site, reveals that almost a quarter (23.5%) of engineering graduates actually have regrets about their degree.



What’s more, almost one in five (17.6%) say that their current job isn’t even related to their chosen subject.

The survey of 1,100 UK workers asked professionals how they felt about university degrees and whether they were valuable in the world of work.

The findings reveal that the majority (93.2%) of engineering graduates think that experience is more important than a degree for landing a job.

Engineering professionals then listed the reasons why they believe experience is more valuable:

* It gives you experience in a professional workplace – 49.1%
* It can equip you with useful skills – 21.8%
* It can make up for your lack of qualifications – 20%
* It can help you to stand out from the competition – 7.3%
* It means you’ll gain a higher salary, quicker  – 1.8%

Lee Biggins, founder and managing director of CV-Library comments on the findings: “It’s worrying to learn that so many engineering graduates have regrets about their degree, especially given the amount of work that’s involved in gaining one.

“However, these feelings are understandable, especially considering the current cost of university fees, making earning a degree a hefty financial investment.

“But for those who have completed a degree, it’s important to remember that these are still extremely valuable and a necessity for some roles.

“If you’re applying for jobs after university, be sure to shout about the transferrable skills you’ve learnt during your studies and tailor each application you submit for maximum impact.”

The research also asked engineering professionals who didn’t go to university if they would consider studying for a degree.

Interestingly, over half (59.5%) of workers said they would like to gain one, suggesting that university is still a desirable option.

Biggins continues: “Degrees are clearly still popular but the decision to study one shouldn’t be taken lightly.

“A degree can provide new learning opportunities, be a gateway into career progression or even give someone the opportunity to change careers.

“However, not everyone is suited to academia. I personally didn’t go to university, instead working extremely hard to make my own business a success.

“Either way, try to ensure that you have education and experience under your belt to increase your employability.

“Whether this is work experience during the university holidays, or a part-time job during your studies, it can all boost your chances of landing a job.”