Higher education: characteristics of the workforce

The HE sector is not merely a producer of those educated to degree level or above, it is also a major employer of this group. In 2008/9, 47% of HE employees were academic professionals, a significant proportion of whom had postgraduate qualifications. A further 35% were other professionals in ‘degree level' roles

The university employment profile reflects the micro-economy required to support the HE environment. Institutions, particularly those based on a campus, need to manage a substantial infrastructure that covers the whole range of everyday activities, and so includes the maintenance of estate and buildings, as well as all the support and welfare activities associated with universities, from medical care to careers services. Apart from laboratories, lecture theatres and offices, this includes residential accommodation, catering facilities, sports and recreation centres.

In order to support operation and recruitment, universities require all the usual business support professionals in management, finance, marketing and human resources. There is a need for business development and research management professionals as these roles become a more important focus for many institutions [The impact of universities on the UK economy].