The graph shows the weekly earnings of full-time graduate employees in 2002, divided by age group and qualification type. The three categories include graduates with a first degree, those with a higher degree (postgraduate), and individuals with other qualifications.
Overall, earnings increase with age across all groups, peaking at the 36–40 age group before gradually declining. Employees with a higher degree consistently earn more than those with only a first degree, while people with other qualifications generally earn the least.
At the start, salaries for all groups are between £400 and £450 in the 21–25 age range. Earnings rise steadily until the age of 35, with a clear gap forming between qualification levels. The highest earnings occur in the 36–40 age group, where postgraduate degree holders earn almost £850 per week, compared to around £750 for first-degree holders and slightly over £800 for those with other qualifications.
After this peak, earnings begin to decline, except for those with a higher degree, who see a slight increase again after 51. Meanwhile, salaries for the other two groups continue to fall and eventually become almost the same by the age of 56–60.
In conclusion, having a higher degree tends to lead to higher earnings, especially in later career stages, while those with other qualifications experience more variation in income.