The newly released figures, published by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), show that 88.8 per cent of University of Staffordshire graduates were in work or further study 15 months after completing their studies, compared with a sector average of 86.8 per cent, meaning the University is performing 2.0 percentage points above the sector average.
The University also outperformed the sector on graduate-level employment, with 78.7 per cent of graduates in employment being in graduate-level roles compared with a sector average of 74.6 per cent, 4.1 percentage points higher than the sector average.
Meanwhile, just 4.2 per cent of University of Staffordshire graduates were unemployed, significantly below the national average of 6.7 per cent, a difference of 2.5 percentage points.
The latest HESA data also shows that 86 per cent of Staffordshire graduates feel their current activity is meaningful, compared with 83 per cent across the sector, 3 percentage points higher than the sector average.
The results come against a backdrop of increasing challenges in the graduate labour market, with sector-wide data showing a decline in a number of employment measures.
The University also recorded an increase in positive graduate outcomes among full-time undergraduate first-degree students, rising from 78.9 per cent to a record 80.2 per cent.
Professor Philip Plowden, Interim Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of University of Staffordshire, said: “These results are a strong endorsement of our commitment to employability and the success of our graduates.
“Students come to university not only to gain knowledge and qualifications, but to build successful futures. At University of Staffordshire, employability is embedded throughout the student experience, from industry-informed curriculum design and real-world projects to placements, professional networks and careers support.
“It is particularly encouraging to see our graduates outperforming sector averages in employment, graduate-level work and unemployment measures at a time when the graduate employment market is becoming increasingly competitive.”
The University’s employability strategy focuses on ensuring students gain the skills, experience and industry connections needed to succeed after graduation. Working closely with employers, the University embeds employability throughout the curriculum, provides opportunities for placements and work-based learning, and supports students to build professional networks while they study.
The latest HESA results build on national recognition received last month when University of Staffordshire was named University of the Year at the Academic Employability Awards 2026. The award recognised the University's institution-wide commitment to employability and its success in preparing students for the world of work.
Professor Plowden added: “These results reflect the talent and ambition of our students, the dedication of our staff and the strength of our partnerships with employers.
“Our focus remains on ensuring that every student leaves University of Staffordshire with the skills, confidence and experience needed to thrive in their chosen career.”