In recruitment, accountancy has never had a higher profile or stronger reputation than in recent years. Employers in the financial services (19 percent) and business services (14 percent) sectors report an optimistic employment outlook. This reflects the shortage of accountants and other skilled staff needed to support companies in the new regulatory environment following Sarbanes-Oxley, IFRS and other recent legislation. As accountancy firms expand to meet demand, they are encountering severe competition to attract qualified people.

The number of graduate accountancy positions in the United Kingdom is expected to rise by 26.4 percent. Vacancies are greatest in the investment bank sector (33.3 percent) and consulting services (26.8). According to the Association of Graduate Recruiters' graduate recruitment survey, the number of vacancies for graduates in accountancy rose for the second year in a row and graduate salaries are predicted to rise by the biggest margin in five years. Starting salaries for graduates in some parts of the UK are forecast to exceed £25,000 ($47,300 US) for the first time, an increase of 10 percent over the prior year.

This is just a sample of what you'll find in the complete United Kingdom guide.