Graduates shift from postgraduate degrees to certifications as AI changes hiring

Three quarters of graduates use AI in job applications as soft skills gain priority.

Graduates are prioritising professional certifications over postgraduate degrees and showing high adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in job applications, according to the CFA Institute 2026 Graduate Outlook Survey.

The survey found that 62% of Hong Kong graduates view professional qualifications as more valuable for career progression than postgraduate study.

A further 80% believe certifications improve earning potential, whilst 84% see them as a competitive advantage. Overall, 97% consider continuous learning essential.

The findings also show strong confidence in local employment prospects, CFA Institute noted.

“Hong Kong graduates stand out globally for their career confidence, with 71% rating their prospects between eight and 10 out of 10, far exceeding the global average of 59%,” it said.

The association added that 92% identified the region as their primary source of career opportunities, and 90% of those planning to study abroad intend to return.

Finance remains the most favoured sector for career stability and opportunity, followed by IT and telecommunications, and human resources.

Graduates are also integrating AI into job seeking, with 75% reporting use of AI tools in applications.

Thirty-seven per cent say AI makes it easier to secure employment, whilst 38% report no negative impact.

“As AI becomes commonplace in the workplace, 79% have made developing interpersonal skills a higher priority,” CFA Institute said, adding that they rank above quantitative and AI-related skills as a source of competitive advantage.

The majority—or 58%—of graduates plan to enter the workforce immediately after completing undergraduate study through employment, internships, or graduate programmes.