Female graduates could potentially start earning more than their male counterparts from their first job out of university.

Pay for women in their twenties has surpassed that of men for the first time, according to the Universities and Colleges Admission Service (UCAS).

Figures show women between the ages of 22 and 29 are currently earning an average hourly wage of £10 an hour, compared with just under £10 an hour for men.

UCAS chief executive Mary Curnock Cook believes better-qualified women entering the work place could be the reason why they are better paid than ever.

She said: "To me this is a particularly interesting point because if in their mid-twenties women are earning more than men, this opens the possibility that we could see a tipping point at which it becomes more the norm for women – as the higher earners in a family – to return to full-time work, leaving their menfolk to play the part of main carer for children in the family.

"That could have a profound effect on the representation of women in senior roles and their pay rates across the spectrum."

As an IT graduate employer that strongly supports the advancement of women within the workplace, FDM Group is thrilled with the news.

FDM Group HR Manager, Lara Plaxton, Said, “As a company that is committed to gender equality we are delighted with these findings. It seems that young career women are finally being given the recognition they deserve for their qualifications and hard work.”

With this aim in mind, FDM Group has launched a female-focused initiative called the “FDM Female Champions” scheme.

Chosen Female Champions, who must apply for the role within the company, will offer ad hoc advice to mentees as well as holding scheduled drop-in sessions and networking events.

For more information on FDM’s “Women in IT Campaign” click here.