Several months after graduation ten per cent of computer graduates are still without work, new research suggests.

A survey by the Higher Education Statistics Authority shows that, in comparison to graduates from the creative arts and communications, a higher proportion of those with computing qualifications are struggling to find work, according to a Computer Weekly report.

The director of information at the Highways Agency Denise Plumpton told the magazine that web development in a learning environment at university is very different from the business world.

"What matters to our blue-chip subscribers is the innovative application of technical skill and that expert talent is deployed successfully for the benefit of the business," Ollie Ross, head of research at the Corporate IT Forum, told the publication.

He added that the UK will have to develop combined business and IT skills.

Personnel Today recently reported that a Association of Graduate Recruiters poll found that over one-third of recruiters are considering applicants who have not achieved a 2:1 classification because they are taking more notice of other achievements.