More graduates planning own company - graduate jobs

Increasing numbers of graduates intend to start up their own business, according to a survey of soon-to-be-graduating students.

Around a third of the respondents claim to have a business idea and say they plan to set up on their own in the near future.

Specialist insurer Hiscox asked 1,000 students, due to graduate in 2010 and 2011, about their plans. Of those stating an intention to become self-employed, around six in 10 say will they go into business in either retail or IT.

One in three say they already had planned to work for themselves before they started their degree course. Around a quarter say they have been running a money-making scheme during their studying, or will soon be starting one.

Small and medium-sized enterprise specialist John Heaney, who works for Hiscox, said: "It's extremely encouraging that despite the knock-on effects of the recession on the job market, the best of British entrepreneurial spirit is alive and kicking amongst the next generation as many look to set up in the future."