What do grads really want in a job?
Life after graduation: Why finance is #1
For the future ahead, we tend to dream big. And so you should.
Whether you’re walking back through college doors or looking through new ones, taking a moment to reflect can help cushion the shock of post-grad anxiety.
So, before you make your next move, we're here to echo the trends shaping the class of 2025. We surveyed over 9,000 recent graduates worldwide to understand what matters most when choosing a career, what it takes to succeed in today’s market — and why a CFA charter might be the ultimate edge.
From identifying the most stable industries, (spoiler: finance tops the list) to highlighting the skills that matter the most, we’ve gathered insights to help you navigate your next steps with confidence.
Let's dig into it.
Grads want impactful work— and finance delivers
Finance and investments are the most stable and attractive career for the third year in a row. Overall, 81% of graduates are confident in their future career prospects today — with finance and tech topping the list.
Why does finance stand out?
Attractive salaries
Real-world impact
Global market integration
Read more on why finance remains a top choice for grads.
AI — friend or foe?
Graduates feel both excited and cautious when it comes to AI in their careers. While nearly two-thirds worry that AI and automation could make it harder to secure their ideal job, they also recognize its importance for career success.
For finance professionals, AI offers a chance to focus on more meaningful tasks by eliminating tedious 'grunt work' like formatting slides and spreadsheets. Curious or uncertain, a third of graduates actively look for roles that provide AI training. But here’s the thing – in a world where machines are doing more, the value of human skills is increasing.
96% agree — upskilling and certifications are game changers
Higher earnings, better career prospects and having THAT edge in the job market — are benefits all tied to earning a professional industry qualification. At CFA Institute, we're here to help you shape your career.
With fierce competition, rising AI influence and limited roles in preferred sectors, standing out is essential. So, what can you do? Three-in-five graduates say soft skills give you an “edge” in the job market.
While most graduates believe their degree improves job prospects, 84% admit they’ll need to continually upskill throughout their careers.
Students lean on people, not just phones
Chances are, you’re reading this on a phone — maybe after finishing a long study sesh or during a quick break on social media (P.S. we’re on there too!) Social media is quickly becoming a powerful tool for career exploration and growth. Nearly half of grads use social media for a behind-the-scenes look at careers while 39% are building a professional presence online.
Even with this digital shift, graduates still value face-to-face interactions, seeking advice from professors and career counsellors. In fact, 44% of graduates turn to their college professors for real-world career insights. Be sure to check if your university is part of the University Affiliations Program.
Commenting on the findings, Peter Watkins, Senior Director, University Programs at CFA Institute, said, "The modern graduate clearly understands that a university degree, while highly valued, may no longer guarantee career success. Today’s students are proactively seeking to equip themselves with specialized skills, particularly in AI, which is fast becoming essential in the finance sector.”
You can find out more information on the 2025 Graduate Outlook Survey results here .
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