Graduates Mean Business: A Study of Graduate Self-Employment and Business Start-Ups.

Self-employment among graduates of England's higher education institutions (HEIs) was examined. The study included five elements: literature review; qualitative development stage involving exploratory interviews with 16 key players and in-depth interviews with 15 self-employed graduates from Sussex University and the London Institute; mail survey of all 152 careers services in England's HEIs (response rate, 48%); mail survey of a sample of 3,029 graduates of selected HEIs (response rate, 21%); and development of good practice materials. Of the graduates surveyed, 31% were currently or had been self-employed, 26% had considered self-employment, and 43% had no interest in self-employment. Women were more likely than men to have some self-employment experience. Self-employment was highest among graduates of creative arts and design courses. Graduates with better-class degrees were more likely to have self-employment experience. A family background in self-employment was a significant factor influencing labor market status in self-employment. Four principal areas where HEIs could play an important role in preparing students for self-employment were identified: promote business awareness, foster entrepreneurial attributes, contribute toward skills training, and help in business planning. (Sixty-eight tables/figures are included. Appended are a full list of courses and full list of sectoral activity. The report contains 85 references.) (MN)