Proud to support the West of England economy

£547m contributed

We've contributed an estimated £547 million annually to the local economy.

Oxford Economics, 2023/24

25% graduates

Over a quarter of our graduates take on jobs in the health and social care sector.

UWE Bristol is helping to build a strong future for the region by training highly skilled graduates, supporting start-up businesses to grow, and improving access to higher education in areas where many don’t pursue a degree.

In 2023/24 we contributed an estimated £547 million annually to the local economy and supported nearly 9,000 jobs in the West of England.

Working closely with employers across the region, we have responded to skills needs by developing talented graduates who go on to support the UK’s economy. From healthcare professionals and engineers, to teachers and cyber experts, our graduates work in the region and across the UK in essential roles, that our communities rely on.

Bristol harbourside lit up at night.

Graduate jobs that are making a difference

Every year our graduates go on to work in careers that make a real difference to people’s lives. Over a quarter of our graduates take on jobs as paramedics, care workers, social workers and nurses, becoming key workers to deliver essential care and support to those who need it most.

Tackling social mobility in our region

As a university, we believe everyone should have access to high quality education and we are proud to be recognised as a driving force for social mobility in the region. Nearly 40 per cent of our students come from areas with the lowest rates of participation in higher education, and more than one in ten are from the most economically deprived backgrounds or received free school meals.

By helping people realise their potential, we’re creating a stronger and more inclusive West of England where more people can contribute positively to the future of their communities.

"We’re really proud to be based within the West of England and of our role within the region."

Professor Sir Steve West, Vice-Chancellor, President and CEO, UWE Bristol
Read more

Professor Sir Steve West Vice-Chancellor, President and CEO, UWE Bristol

"The research by Oxford Economics has shown the sizable contribution UWE Bristol’s staff and students make to the local and national economy, with significant societal impact too. At the heart of this is our students, who bring vital skills to the region for local employers, particularly those in health and social care.

We’re really proud to be based within the West of England and of our role within the region."

Explore our impact