Graduates in nursing, health and social care the most successful at getting jobs after leaving Sheffield universities

Figures from the Higher Education Statistics Agency show 95 per cent of both sets of graduates were working or still studying five years later.

This was the highest of all degree subjects at the university

In contrast, just 76 per cent and 77 per cent respectively of languages and area studies graduates were not employed or still studying in 2017-18.

Across Britain, languages graduates had the lowest average rate of employment or further study five years after finishing their course, of 79 per cent.

Tristram Hooley, chief research officer at the Institute of Student Employers (ISE), said: “Covid-19 is clearly making a big difference to the graduate labour market. Research from the ISE shows that the number of vacancies is down by about 12 per cent and that many students should expect to be interviewed, inducted and begin working online.

"So far employers have continued to invest in graduates, albeit in somewhat lower numbers. But, the mix of lockdown and recession is likely to mean that graduates are going to be facing a challenging labour market for a number of years to come.”

In addition, the HESA figures show medicine and dentistry graduates had the highest earnings five years after graduating from the University of Sheffield, with an average income of £45,600.

While at Sheffield Hallam architecture graduates had the highest earnings with an average income of £33,900.

Chris Millward, director for access and participation at the OfS, said: "The labour market is likely to become more challenging in the aftermath of coronavirus, so it is more important than ever that higher education equips graduates with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the workplace, whatever and wherever they study.

"Universities and colleges will be central to the recovery of local areas throughout the country, helping people of all ages to up-skill and re-train, and supplying businesses and public services with the creative and adaptable people they will need to succeed."

A Department for Education spokeswoman said: “We want all university students to benefit from a high quality education and go on to pursue successful careers, delivering value for money for students and taxpayers."

She added that a Government-commissioned report last year showed 34% of graduates were in non-graduate jobs and the Government was committed to its manifesto pledge to tackle low quality courses.

Both universities were approached for a comment.

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