The line graph compares the percentage of mathematics and other graduates who employed in full-time job with a university degree over an eight-years period starting from 2004, while the table provides information on the average salaries of these two groups during the same period. Overall, the percentage of graduates working full-time slightly fluctuated, while the average salary of both groups generally increased over the years. Mathematics graduates consistently earned more than other graduates, with a notable rise in 2012.
In the beginning, around 80% of all graduates were employed full-time in 2004, compared to 70% for mathematics graduates. By 2006, the proportion of mathematics graduates increased significantly to nearly 85%, surpassing the overall graduate rate, which reached about 82%. However, after peaking in 2006, both groups experienced a decline. For instance, in 2012, the percentage of mathematics graduates employed full-time fell to approximately 72%, while the figure for all graduates slightly exceeded 75%.
Turning to salaries, both groups started at the same level in 2004, earning $41,000. Nevertheless, mathematics graduates saw a steady rise in income, peaking at $59,000 in 2012. In contrast, the salaries of other graduates increased at a slower pace, reaching $53,000 by the end of the period. Interestingly, in 2008, the earnings gap between the two groups became more pronounced, with mathematics graduates earning $51,500 compared to $48,000 for other graduates.