New research from EngineeringUK reveals computing and ‘engineering and technology’ were the 4th and 5th most popular university degree subjects across all levels of study in the UK.
Across both undergraduate and postgraduate, 70,845 students started an ‘engineering and technology’ course and a further 85,875 started a computing course.
The Engineering in higher education report, which is based on the latest HESA data from 2023/2024, also includes analysis of students’ characteristics and what they are doing after graduating.
Diversity remains key challenge
The report does highlight ongoing diversity challenges, which are echoed in the workforce. Concerningly, women continue to be underrepresented in these subjects, making up only 1 in 5 undergraduates.
In addition, whilst UK minority ethnic (UKME) groups are frequently overrepresented in engineering and technology (41% vs 32% for other subjects), there are differences between these groups. For example, Black Caribbean and Caribbean British students are consistently underrepresented.
Engineering and technology subjects also continued to struggle to attract disabled students, compared to other subjects. Plus, engineering and technology was more likely to attract students from higher socioeconomic statuses and/or whose parents also have a higher education qualification.
Becca Gooch, Head of Research at EngineeringUK, comments “Given the vital role of engineering and technology in the UK, we’re pleased to see that it consistently remains a popular subject of choice for university students. However, our findings suggest further support is needed to ensure engineering and technology degrees are attractive and accessible to young people from all backgrounds.”
Positive employment prospects
The report also reveals positive outcomes for engineering and technology graduates. 7 in 10 engineering and technology graduates were in paid work for an employer 15 months after graduating. A further 8% reported being engaged in a course of study, training or research.
The majority of graduates working in engineering and technology, both men and women, also find their job meaningful (87%). And felt their current activity was on track with their future plans (86%).
Graduates working in engineering and technology tend to earn more than graduates working in other occupations. This is evidenced by a higher percentage of engineering and technology employees earning £30,001 to £35,000 (23%), compared to all other occupations combined (17%).
Becca continues, “Overall the findings highlight engineering and technology graduates are enjoying meaningful, well-paid jobs that align with their career ambitions – all just a year on from graduating.
“Higher education is of course just one entry route into engineering and technology. If we are to successfully drive change and increase the number and diversity of young people pursuing careers in the sector, we must continue to promote all career pathways. This includes highly-valued vocational and technical routes, such as apprenticeships and T Levels.”
The Engineering in higher education report is available to download at www.engineeringuk.com/he
Subject breakdowns are also available for the following subjects at www.engineeringuk.com/he#subject
- Aeronautical and aerospace engineering
- Artificial intelligence
- Chemical engineering
- Civil engineering
- Computer games and animation
- Computer science
- Electrical and electronic engineering
- Engineering (non-specific)
- Information systems
- Information technology
- Mechanical engineering
- Production and manufacturing engineering
- Software engineering,
--ENDS--
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About EngineeringUK
EngineeringUK is a not-for-profit organisation that drives change so more young people choose engineering and technology careers. Our mission is to enable more young people from all backgrounds to be inspired, informed and progress into engineering and technology.
We work closely with our Corporate Members and in partnership with hundreds of organisations. We lead collaborative efforts to improve the impact of all engineering and tech inspiration and careers activities for young people through Tomorrow’s Engineers and managing The Tomorrow’s Engineers Code.
We ignite a passion for STEM among young people from all backgrounds through EUK Education and our school engagement programmes such as The Big Bang. Our careers resources help teachers bring STEM to life through real-world engineering and tech stories via Neon.
Our research and evidence build insight into the current workforce and our future needs. And our evaluations build understanding of what really works to inspire and inform the next generation. We also advocate for policy development in STEM and careers education and workforce planning for engineering and tech.
