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FAQ ↓

  • What's the average salary for graduates in the Military & Defence sector 2025?

    As of October 2025 the average starting salary for Military & Defence graduates is £31592. The average graduate starting salary in the UK in 2025 is £30076.

    The latest graduate salary analysis 2025

  • When should I apply for a graduate job in Military & Defence?

    During the past 12 months (2025), the most number of graduate jobs in the Military & Defence sector were posted during September and May, so these may be the most strategic months to apply.

    The graduate recruitment calendar 2025

  • How hard is it to get a graduate job in the Military & Defence sector?

    Based on our data, graduate-jobs.com would suggest that it's "challenging" to get a graduate job in the Military & Defence sector compared to some other industry sectors - October 2025.

  • Do I need a 2.1 to get a job in the Military & Defence sector?

    Based on our data, we suggest there's a "strong likelihood you wouldn't" require a 2.1 in order to get a job in Military & Defence - October 2025.

    Graduate jobs with a 2.1 or a 2.2

  • Where are the most graduate Military & Defence jobs located in the UK?

    In the past 12 months (2025) the most Military & Defence jobs posted to graduate-jobs.com were located in Barrow-in-Furness and Portsmouth

  • Is Military & Defence a popular career choice for UK students and graduates?

    The Military & Defence sector does not appear in our Top 10 most popular sectors list for UK graduates. We don't consider it a popular career choice for graduates in the UK .

    Which are the most popular industry sectors for graduates today?

Read more about working in Military & Defence ↓

Military & Defence is a demanding field with the potential to be very rewarding. Training is intense, and some positions require extensive qualifications, but for graduates who feel committed, the sector can offer exciting and fulfilling work.

Military & Defence includes comprehensive and sometimes dangerous roles with the Army, the Territorial Army, the Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force, but these are not the only options available. Technical roles also make up a large part of this sector, and big companies like CGI, DESG and BAE Detica offer excellent graduate schemes which put applicants at the cutting edge of technology and defence. Military & Defence also includes intelligence services, and while a vacancy for 007 will not appear on graduate-jobs.com, there are many Research and Analysis roles available with organisations such as Mi5 and GCHQ.

Graduates who decide to pursue a career in the Army, the Territorial Army, the Royal Navy or the Royal Air Force should be prepared for the challenges and risks which come with the field. This part of the Military sector often does not require a specific degree, rather employers look for graduates who are dedicated and able to apply what they've learned during their studies. Successful applicants may go on to work in communications, logistics, or other roles which might be found in any organisation, such as finance or human resources. Graduates should research all four sections of the Military and put serious thought into where they see themselves, and whether they will be able to commit to the training and the job.

How to Get a Job in Military & Defence

Graduates who want a career in Military & Defence should be aware of what they can offer and what they are prepared to learn and do.

Candidates should display the following:

1. Readiness to learn

The Military & Defence sector can make use of nearly any skill a graduate can provide, but a readiness to learn is essential to most roles. Employers look for applicants who are enthusiastic, keen to learn and ready to put in the work to succeed.

2. Specific skills

Some roles in this sector will require skills specific to the position and the field. For example, Cyber Security is a quickly-growing business in the UK, and graduates with qualifications in IT and Computing may want to consider putting their skills to use in this area. Companies like CGQ, BAE Detica and DESG employ the brightest and most forward-thinking graduates in Cyber Security. Candidates should be aware of recent technological advancements, as well as typical security threats and the current landscape in the field. Candidates should provide a detailed portfolio showing examples of their technical skills, such as computer programming and technical languages.

3. Meticulous work ethic

Roles in the Military & Defence sector often require a stringent work ethic and attention to detail. Candidates must be tactful, discrete and willing to work hard.

4. Global awareness

Along with a strong work ethic, candidates in this sector should be up to date with global and national affairs. Graduates should pay attention to developments in security and global relations and understand their impacts on the UK.

5. Versatility

Candidates in Military & Defence must be versatile and flexible, as the work is often varied and irregular. Graduates should take the time to research the positions for which they are applying and be able to speak clearly about how their skills, experience and personality suit the responsibilities of the role.