All Graduate Salaries Compared
| Degree | Starting | Mid-Career | Take Home/Mo (Start) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science | £32,000 | £55,000 | £2,213 |
| Medicine | £32,398 | £65,000 | £2,237 |
| Law | £25,000 | £45,000 | £1,793 |
| Engineering | £28,000 | £48,000 | £1,973 |
| Accounting & Finance | £26,000 | £50,000 | £1,853 |
| Economics | £28,000 | £50,000 | £1,973 |
| Nursing | £29,970 | £38,000 | £2,092 |
| Architecture | £24,000 | £42,000 | £1,733 |
| Marketing | £24,000 | £40,000 | £1,733 |
| Teaching | £32,916 | £45,352 | £2,268 |
| Psychology | £22,000 | £35,000 | £1,613 |
| English & Humanities | £22,000 | £32,000 | £1,613 |
| Business Management | £25,000 | £42,000 | £1,793 |
| Maths & Statistics | £28,000 | £55,000 | £1,973 |
| Art & Design | £20,000 | £30,000 | £1,493 |
| Biology | £22,000 | £35,000 | £1,613 |
| Chemistry | £24,000 | £40,000 | £1,733 |
| Physics | £26,000 | £50,000 | £1,853 |
| Pharmacy | £33,000 | £45,000 | £2,273 |
| Dentistry | £33,000 | £55,000 | £2,273 |
Career Outlook for Accounting Finance Graduates
Accounting and finance graduates have strong employment prospects, particularly when pursuing professional qualifications (ACA, ACCA, CIMA). The UK's position as a global financial centre ensures consistent demand. Graduates entering training contracts at Big Four firms or major corporates see rapid salary progression upon qualification.
Typical First Roles and Career Paths
Common first roles include trainee accountant, audit associate, financial analyst, accounts assistant, and tax associate. Training contracts at accounting firms combine work with study towards professional qualifications (3 years). Big Four firms (Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG) recruit thousands of graduates annually for audit, tax, advisory, and consulting roles.
Tips for Accounting Finance Graduates
The salary jump upon qualification is significant — typically from £28,000 to £40,000-£50,000 immediately. Qualifying while with a firm means your study costs are covered (worth £10,000-£15,000). Consider accountant salary guide for the full career trajectory. Industry moves after qualification often boost salary further.
Student Loan Repayments
Accounting graduates on £28,000 repay approximately £6/month on Plan 2. Once qualified (typically by 25-27), salaries of £40,000+ result in higher but manageable repayments.