A report by Jisc’s Prospects and the Institute of Student Employers (ISE) found that more than one in 10 students and early career professionals have already changed their career plans due to concerns about how AI will impact their jobs. However, despite widespread concerns, most employers say AI is not yet a major cause of entry-level job losses.
The AI and Early Careers report combines the views of students and graduates and employers. It found that 13% of respondents have already changed their career plans due to the influence of AI (up from 10% last year), and a further 34% are considering making a change.
Among those who changed direction, the most common reason was fear that their job would be replaced. Almost three quarters (69%) said this influenced their decision.
However, while employers acknowledge the increasing adoption of AI within their organizations, changes in entry-level hiring have been driven less by job automation and more by external market uncertainty, strategic realignment, and budget pressures.
More than half of employers (53%) expect employment numbers to remain the same over the next three years, while 27% expect them to increase. No one said they expected large-scale job losses due to AI during this period.
Rather, the majority of employers said AI is gradually changing entry-level responsibilities rather than replacing workers. While routine tasks such as basic research, administrative work, and content drafting are most at risk, jobs that require judgment, communication, and interpersonal skills are expected to remain primarily human-driven.
The study also highlights significant differences in how young professionals experience and respond to AI. The most common emotions are curiosity and anxiety, reflecting both interest in new opportunities and concern about job security.
Respondents motivated by AI opportunities primarily said they adapted their career plans after learning new AI skills, while others pursued higher-paying jobs or new roles related to AI.
People who feel better prepared, whether through qualifications, previous experience, or new AI skills, are more likely to feel curious and excited about AI as an opportunity. In contrast, those who felt ill-equipped reported higher levels of anxiety and uncertainty, and this was particularly pronounced among disabled and younger respondents.
The perception of risk in some professions has led early career professionals to make significant shifts. Many people who originally planned to pursue a career in fields such as technology or business have adjusted their plans to work alongside AI, but those aiming for careers in fields such as translation are finding themselves far less adaptable, and therefore much more likely to change direction completely.
Chris Rea, Early Career Expert in Jisc’s Prospects Department, said:
“There is a growing disconnect between young people’s perceptions of AI and what is actually happening in the workplace. Fears about job loss are already influencing career decisions, but most employers are not hiring less because of AI, at least not yet.”
“Uncertainty and misinformation can cause unnecessary anxiety and premature career changes. Clearer information about how AI is impacting different sectors, good career guidance and practical AI training are key to ensuring young people are prepared.”
ISE co-CEO Stephen Isherwood added:
“AI is impacting career choices and the skills needed for entry-level roles, but employers are pointing to steady AI adoption that is human-centered rather than job replacement.”. More structured AI upskilling by employers and reassurance about job security can turn fear into opportunity and help graduates step into the AI-enabled labor market with confidence. ”
