USQ’s grads earn top cash

NEW Federal Government data has indicated that for the second successive year, University of Southern Queensland’s graduates have been ranked the highest in the nation for graduate starting salaries.

USQ graduates’ median salary of $63,800 is more than $5000 above the national average. The university’s recent graduates also ranked third in the nation for full-time employment.

The Graduate Outcomes Survey provides information from thousands of graduates from all over Australia on their study experience at university, and employment after graduation. Vice-Chancellor Professor Geraldine Mackenzie said it was a satisfying reflection of the excellent educational experience provided by USQ.

The report found that in 2017 the employment outcomes of graduates from regional and remote areas were higher than those from metropolitan areas, and that there is an improvement in the overall labour market.

“Employers want workers with attributes such as problem solving, communication and leadership. USQ graduates are in high demand in industry and the professions.”

“USQ continues to prove it is one of Australia’s leading providers of on-campus and online (distance) education programs,” Professor Mackenzie said.

These results follow the release of the Government’s Employer Satisfaction Survey of graduate attributes, which showed an overall employer satisfaction rate for USQ graduates of 77.4%, and 94.4% for USQ graduates’ professional and technical knowledge and standards.

“USQ will use the results of both surveys to further develop our student experience.’’