Choosing a degree isn’t just about passion — it’s also about potential. For international students studying in the UK, understanding what kind of salary and career opportunities each field can lead to is an important part of planning your future. The UK job market values both academic excellence and practical experience, and graduates from British universities are in high demand worldwide. Here’s what you can realistically expect to earn in the UK depending on your degree and chosen career path.
Business and Management
Graduates in business, management, and marketing are among the most employable in the UK. With skills in strategy, communication, and leadership, they often find roles in corporate management, consulting, and entrepreneurship.
Average starting salary: £26,000 – £35,000
Mid-career potential: £45,000 – £80,000+
Popular careers: marketing manager, business analyst, consultant, operations manager, brand strategist.
Accounting and Finance
Finance professionals are consistently in demand across the UK’s banking, insurance, and investment sectors. Graduates who pursue ACCA or CIMA certifications can significantly increase their earning potential.
Average starting salary: £28,000 – £38,000
Mid-career potential: £50,000 – £100,000+
Popular careers: auditor, investment analyst, financial controller, tax consultant, financial advisor.
Law
Law is one of the most competitive yet rewarding degrees in the UK. While training can take time, the payoff for qualified solicitors and barristers is substantial.
Average starting salary: £25,000 – £35,000 during training
Mid-career potential: £70,000 – £120,000+ (city firms often exceed £150,000)
Popular careers: solicitor, barrister, legal consultant, compliance officer, corporate lawyer.
Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil)
Engineering remains one of the most stable and high-paying fields in the UK. Employers value technical expertise and problem-solving skills, with opportunities across renewable energy, manufacturing, transport, and infrastructure.
Average starting salary: £28,000 – £36,000
Mid-career potential: £50,000 – £85,000+
Popular careers: project engineer, design engineer, systems analyst, maintenance engineer, energy consultant.
Computer Science and IT
Technology is one of the UK’s fastest-growing sectors. Graduates with programming, AI, or cybersecurity skills are especially sought after.
Average starting salary: £30,000 – £40,000
Mid-career potential: £60,000 – £100,000+
Popular careers: software developer, data scientist, IT project manager, cybersecurity analyst, cloud engineer.
Medicine and Healthcare
Medicine degrees require years of study and training but lead to some of the highest salaries in the UK. The healthcare sector also offers stability and growth for nurses, pharmacists, and allied professionals.
Average starting salary: £32,000 – £45,000 (junior doctor)
Mid-career potential: £70,000 – £120,000+
Popular careers: doctor, surgeon, dentist, pharmacist, physiotherapist, biomedical researcher.
Architecture and Design
Architecture and design graduates blend creativity with technical expertise. Salaries depend heavily on experience and location, especially in London and other large cities.
Average starting salary: £24,000 – £32,000
Mid-career potential: £45,000 – £80,000+
Popular careers: architect, interior designer, urban planner, 3D visualiser, design consultant.
Psychology and Social Sciences
Graduates in psychology, sociology, or related fields often pursue further study or specialise in applied roles. Pay varies depending on qualification level and area of work.
Average starting salary: £23,000 – £30,000
Mid-career potential: £40,000 – £70,000+
Popular careers: psychologist, HR specialist, counsellor, policy researcher, academic lecturer.
Education and Teaching
Teaching offers strong job security and the chance to make a meaningful impact. Qualified teachers and education consultants can build rewarding long-term careers.
Average starting salary: £25,000 – £33,000
Mid-career potential: £45,000 – £70,000+
Popular careers: teacher, academic coordinator, school administrator, educational consultant, lecturer.
Media, Communication and Journalism
Graduates in media, journalism, and public relations can work in fast-paced creative environments. While starting salaries can be modest, experienced professionals often move into senior roles quickly.
Average starting salary: £22,000 – £30,000
Mid-career potential: £40,000 – £75,000+
Popular careers: journalist, PR manager, content strategist, digital marketer, communications officer.
Art and Creative Industries
The UK’s creative sector — including film, fashion, and visual arts — is one of the most dynamic in Europe. Income can vary widely based on talent, exposure, and networking.
Average starting salary: £20,000 – £28,000
Mid-career potential: £40,000 – £80,000+
Popular careers: designer, filmmaker, illustrator, fashion stylist, curator.
Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
Data science and AI are transforming industries. Graduates with programming and analytical skills can command some of the UK’s highest entry-level salaries.
Average starting salary: £35,000 – £45,000
Mid-career potential: £70,000 – £110,000+
Popular careers: machine learning engineer, data analyst, AI consultant, quantitative researcher, big data specialist.
Hospitality, Tourism and Event Management
These degrees prepare students for dynamic, people-focused careers in hotels, travel, and entertainment. Post-pandemic, the UK’s tourism sector is expanding again, offering new opportunities.
Average starting salary: £22,000 – £28,000
Mid-career potential: £40,000 – £65,000+
Popular careers: hotel manager, event planner, tourism consultant, brand ambassador, hospitality director.
Average Graduate Salary by Level of Study
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Undergraduate (Bachelor’s): £25,000 – £35,000
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Postgraduate (Master’s): £30,000 – £45,000
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Doctorate (PhD): £40,000 – £60,000+
Higher degrees can open doors to research, management, or specialised technical roles that command higher pay.
Final Thoughts
Salaries in the UK vary depending on industry, location, and experience, but studying at a UK university gives you a global advantage — both in career progression and earning power. Graduates who combine strong academic performance with internships, networking, and English proficiency often move faster toward higher-paying roles.
If you’re ready to study in the UK and want guidance on choosing the right degree for your career goals, click here to book your free consultation with Universitio — we’ll help you plan a program that pays off in every sense.
