IT Jobs for Graduates research has found that 82 per cent of graduates plan to look for work in IT. The survey also highlighted that more college leavers search for graduate IT jobs via online job boards than by any other method. Thirty-six per cent of survey respondents ticked the job boards column, compared with recruitment agencies, standing at 35 per cent. Seventy-two per cent of graduates said they feel prepared for the job market on leaving university.

When it came to salary expectations, 61 per cent hope to earn between £18,000-£26,000 on graduating and starting their first job.

Professions snubbed included accountancy, with 33 per cent claiming they would not look for a role within that industry, and 36 per cent steering clear of employment in the legal sector. When asked why, respondents believed there would be less opportunities available within these professions.

Teresa Sperti, head of marketing at IT Jobs for Graduates, commented: “I believe that many of today’s college leavers see a greater chance of employment within the IT sector, particularly in light of the current economic climate. And this presents a real opportunity for the sector to bring in and nurture new talent.

“It is also encouraging to see that online job boards are a key job hunting tool for graduate IT jobs. They present a quick and easy route for people looking for employment, and a cost-effective way for companies to advertise.”