IP careers at a glance

There are many careers in ideas, including jobs suitable for school-leavers, 16-18 year olds, university graduates and postgraduates. Once you’re in the IP profession, there are many opportunities to progress your career.

Starting salaries for graduates are usually over £25,000 and can rise to £100,000 or more within ten years. Even school-leavers can expect to earn £18,000 or more in their first year.

This flow-chart shows some of the careers in ideas and how to get in. In most cases, you’ll need to get specific further training, which is often provided on the job. (See the individual roles for further details.)

There are thousands of jobs in the IP sector. Looking 
at one senior role alone, there are some 3,000 patent attorneys working in IP in all parts of the UK from London to Bristol, from Manchester to Aberdeen.

Careers in ideas are also some of the most international careers, opening a world of opportunities.