British universities are being urged to form links with industry in order to boost the employability of their graduates, according to a study.
The University of Hertfordshire's Graduate Forum found that the best work experience for students is often gained through a university's links with local industry - although often such links are few and far between.
Only 31 per cent of employers said that they have a good relationship with their local university, while 29 per cent said they have no relationship at all with higher education institutions.
One in three firms admitted to not offering work experience at all, despite 46 per cent claiming that experience of work was one of the main things looked at employers when recruiting.
"It is essential that all universities and employers work together to offer paid or unpaid work experience to undergraduates so that students are 'work ready' when they graduate," said Stephen Boffey, director of admissions and pro-vice-chancellor at the University of Hertfordshire. "This will help to build the workforce for tomorrow."
"If students are selecting a university, either this September or through the university clearing process, school leavers will need to think very carefully about the institution’s links with employers to increase their prospects of employment when they graduate."
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