Most postsecondary graduates secure permanent jobs they enjoy within a few years of finishing school, though according to a federal study, many earn less than they hoped.The Department of Employment’s Labour Market Outcomes Of 2015 Graduates report found that 83% of graduates were satisfied with their jobs three years after graduation, but only 62% felt the same about their earnings. Median annual pay rose from $31,200 in a graduate’s first job to $49,036 after three years.According to Blacklock's Reporter, the study found 80% of graduates held permanent positions, and 78% were working in jobs related to their field of study by the three-year mark. Roughly 46% had completed work placements during their studies, including 12% through co-op programs.Debt was common, with 76% of students borrowing to finance their education. The median government loan debt at graduation was $12,651, typically dropping to $7,000 after three years. While 9% graduated debt-free, that share more than doubled to 20% within three years.Fewer than a third of graduates regretted their field of study. Among the 30% who would have chosen differently, the most common reasons were a lack of job opportunities (32%) and a change of interest (29%).
