Bournemouth University (BU) is renowned for its commitment to preparing students for successful careers through a wide array of opportunities. With a focus on practical skills, industry connections, and global perspectives, BU ensures that graduates are employable and adaptable in a competitive job market. The university's Future Focus strategy emphasizes real-world experience, innovation, and lifelong learning, providing students with pathways to internships, entrepreneurship, international exchanges, and more.

Employability and Career Support

BU boasts one of the highest graduate employment rates in the UK, with over 95% of graduates in work or further study within six months of graduation (according to the latest Graduate Outcomes survey). The university's dedicated Careers Service offers personalized support from day one, including CV workshops, interview coaching, and access to an extensive job portal.

• One-to-one career consultations: Tailored advice on job hunting, networking, and career planning.
• Skills development programs: Workshops on digital literacy, leadership, and soft skills.
• Industry mentorship schemes: Pairing students with professionals in fields like media, business, and health.

BU's emphasis on experiential learning integrates employability into the curriculum, ensuring students graduate with portfolios, certifications, and real-world insights.

Internships and Work Placements

Many BU courses incorporate sandwich placements, allowing students to spend up to a year in industry, gaining paid experience and academic credits. This hands-on approach is particularly strong in creative industries, where BU has deep ties to sectors like film, animation, and digital media.

Department	Placement Opportunities	Partner Organizations
Media School	6-12 month internships in production and journalism	BBC, Sky Sports, Warner Bros.
Business School	Consultancy projects and marketing roles	Deloitte, Unilever, local SMEs
Health and Social Care	Clinical placements and community outreach	NHS Trusts, Age UK
Science and Technology	Research internships in forensics and computing	IBM, local tech startups

Students can apply for the BU Placement Fund, which provides financial support for unpaid or low-paid placements, making opportunities accessible to all.

Entrepreneurship and Innovation

BU fosters an entrepreneurial spirit through BU Enterprise, a hub that supports student startups from idea to launch. With access to incubators, funding advice, and pitch competitions, students can turn passions into viable businesses.

• Startup Accelerator Program: Mentorship and resources for early-stage ventures.
• Innovation Challenges: Annual competitions with cash prizes up to £5,000.
• Enterprise Societies: Student-led groups offering networking events and guest speakers from companies like Virgin and Tech Nation.

The university's Fusion initiative encourages cross-disciplinary projects, where students collaborate on real-world problems, enhancing innovation skills sought by employers.

International Opportunities

BU's global outlook opens doors to study abroad, exchanges, and international careers. With partnerships in over 100 countries, students can participate in Erasmus+ programs, summer schools, or volunteer placements.

1. Study Abroad: Spend a semester or year at partner universities in Europe, Asia, or the Americas.
2. Global Internships: Opportunities with organizations like the United Nations or international NGOs.
3. Language and Cultural Exchanges: Scholarships for immersion programs to build intercultural competence.

Recent initiatives include the Global Mobility Fund, covering travel costs for eligible students, and virtual exchange programs for those preferring remote experiences.

Alumni Network and Lifelong Opportunities

BU's vibrant Alumni Association connects over 150,000 graduates worldwide, offering exclusive job listings, networking events, and mentorship. Alumni successes span industries, from Oscar-winning filmmakers to NHS leaders.

• Mentoring Platform: Connect with alumni in your field for career guidance.
• Reunion and Networking Events: Annual gatherings in major cities like London, New York, and Dubai.
• Continued Professional Development: Discounted access to short courses and certifications post-graduation.

Through these networks, alumni often return as guest lecturers or collaborators, creating a cycle of opportunity for current students.

In summary, Bournemouth University provides a comprehensive ecosystem of opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. Whether pursuing placements, starting a business, or exploring global horizons, BU equips students with the tools to thrive. By leveraging these resources, graduates not only secure rewarding careers but also contribute meaningfully to their fields.