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Overview of 2025 Summer Career Popularity Rankings

The labor landscape for upcoming graduates continues to evolve, and the recent findings from the Diamond Human Resources survey shed light on the companies that have captured the attention of students as they enter the job market for 2025. This year marks the 49th iteration of the annual University Student Career Popularity Rankings, providing valuable insights into what students prioritize when seeking employment.

Key Findings

In a market characterized by labor shortages due to the aging population, companies that effectively engage students early are seeing a boost in their popularity. The rankings highlight a trend where companies that have made strides in workplace reforms and enhancement of employee benefits are in the spotlight.

Rankings for Male Students in Humanities

The general trading companies continue their dominance in popularity metrics. Itochu Corporation maintains its leading position for the seventh consecutive year, followed by other industry giants including Mitsui & Co., Marubeni Corporation, Sumitomo Corporation, and Mitsubishi Corporation in the top five.

Interestingly, despite global economic uncertainties such as fluctuating resource prices and tariffs from the previous U.S. administration, these companies continue to show robust performance, appealing to young graduates who seek global and diverse career paths.

Financial institutions are also doing well in the rankings, with Mitsubishi UFJ Trust and Banking at seventh and Daiwa Securities Group making its way into the top ten. The increase in interest rates has boosted the profitability of major banks, leading to improved compensation packages for new employees.

Rankings for Male Students in Sciences

In the realm of scientific disciplines, Marubeni Corporation has emerged victorious this year, becoming the first trading company to top the list for male science students. Following closely are Itochu, Mitsubishi, Mitsui, and Sumitomo making up the top five once again.

The general trading companies continue to attract science graduates by showcasing the diverse roles they can excel in, especially in areas beyond research and development. The tech industry remains appealing, with companies like Sky and Nomura Research Institute making a strong showing, evidencing a growing trend in digital investment.

Rankings for Female Students in Humanities

For female students, Itochu Corporation continues its reign, being the top choice for four years running. The significance of this achievement is further emphasized by the company’s efforts to champion initiatives for gender equality in the workplace.

Marubeni, Sumitomo, Mitsui, and Mitsubishi account for the other top spots in the rankings, indicating that general trading companies are highly regarded by young women entering the workforce. Financial firms are also represented, with Mitsubishi UFJ Bank and other leading banks making strong commitments to pay equity and supportive work environments.

Rankings for Female Students in Sciences

Marubeni Corporation has shown impressive consistency, topping the rankings among female science students for the second consecutive year. Popularity is also rising for the consumer goods manufacturing sector, which includes leading companies like Ajinomoto, Shiseido, and Suntory Group. This reemergence indicates a trend where practical-oriented firms are gaining traction among graduates.

It’s clear from the rankings that students are increasingly drawn to companies that emphasize responsive working environments, robust hiring practices, and strong prospects for economic growth.

Survey Methodology

This report is based on a comprehensive survey conducted between April 24 and August 28, 2025, targeting third-year university students and first-year graduate students actively seeking employment. The survey successfully gathered feedback from 3,692 participants.

The ranking framework awards points based on preferences across a range of companies, emphasizing the prevailing trends influencing today’s job market decisions.

About Diamond Human Resources

Diamond Human Resources is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, and offers a suite of services designed to enhance workforce development and facilitate successful job placements. Their methodical approach provides valuable insights into recruitment and employment trends, reaffirming their status as a key player in the employment landscape.

For more details, visit Diamond HR.