Graduation is around the corner, and for many, the big question is, “What’s next?” The UK is a fantastic place to launch your career, with plenty of companies actively seeking fresh talent across industries like tech, finance, media, and more. There’s no shortage of opportunities here, but finding the right fit can feel like a big decision.
To help you get started, here’s a closer look at some of the best graduate employers in the UK for 2024—and why a UK education gives you a leg up.
Deloitte
Deloitte has a reputation for being one of the best places to kick off a career in finance, consulting, or technology. Their graduate programs are structured to help you build both technical and professional skills, offering roles in everything from audit to tech innovation. If you’ve studied business, economics, or even computer science at a UK university, you’re probably already familiar with them—they’re regulars at career fairs and networking events. It’s the kind of place where education meets opportunity, and their programs are designed to help you figure out where you can really shine.
If innovation excites you, it’s hard to beat Google. The company is a dream employer for many tech grads, offering roles in software development, AI, and data science. But here’s the thing—they’re not just looking for people with technical know-how. Creativity and curiosity matter just as much, and that’s where UK universities excel. By the time you graduate, you’ve likely worked on projects or research that make you stand out. Google’s programs are competitive, sure, but for good reason—they’re designed for people who want to make a real impact.
BBC
For media enthusiasts, the BBC is an obvious choice. Whether you’re into journalism, production, or digital media, their graduate schemes offer a mix of hands-on training and exposure to real-world challenges. Universities like Cardiff and UCL, known for their strong media programs, often see their grads go on to successful careers here. The BBC values originality and fresh ideas, so if you’ve got a creative streak and a passion for storytelling, this could be the perfect place to start.
HSBC
If finance is your thing, HSBC is a name you’ve probably heard before. They’re not just about traditional banking anymore—the company is investing heavily in digital transformation, which means there’s a growing demand for tech-savvy grads alongside the usual finance and economics crowd. UK universities are great at preparing students for these kinds of roles, with programs that balance technical skills and strategic thinking. Plus, working at HSBC opens doors to global opportunities, which is a big deal if you’re looking for a long-term career path.
Unilever
Unilever might be best known for its household brands, but there’s a lot more to the company than meets the eye. They’re big on sustainability and innovation, and their graduate programs reflect that. Whether you’re into marketing, supply chain management, or leadership development, Unilever offers opportunities that align with the growing interest in purpose-driven careers. UK universities, especially those with strong sustainability programs, are a great starting point if you want to stand out in applications here.
EY (Ernst & Young)
EY is one of those companies where you can really build a solid foundation for your career. Whether you’re aiming for accounting, consulting, or even tech roles, they offer a range of graduate schemes designed to help you grow. What sets EY apart is how much they invest in their people—they’re all about mentoring and helping you develop professionally. If you’ve studied at a UK business school, you’ll find that the skills you’ve gained—things like critical thinking and teamwork—translate really well into the kind of work EY does.
Why the UK is a Great Place to Start
The UK isn’t just a place to earn a degree—it’s where you can set yourself up for a career that aligns with your goals. Universities here focus on real-world learning, which means you’re not just studying theory—you’re applying it, often through internships or industry projects. That’s a big reason so many top companies look to UK graduates when hiring.
At GoGrad, we’re here to help you every step of the way. From choosing the right course to navigating job applications, we’ve got your back. Your education is just the beginning—let’s make sure it leads to something amazing.