Employability and Career Support

At Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU), we are committed to equipping our students with the skills, experiences, and networks needed to thrive in their chosen careers. Our dedicated employability team works tirelessly to bridge the gap between academic study and professional success. Whether you're seeking internships, graduate jobs, or further study opportunities, CCCU provides comprehensive support tailored to your ambitions.

Placements and Work Experience

One of the standout features of studying at CCCU is our emphasis on practical, hands-on experience. Many of our courses incorporate sandwich placements or year-in-industry options, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. For instance:

• Education and Teacher Training: Placements in local schools and nurseries, often leading to qualified teacher status (QTS).
• Health and Social Care: Clinical placements in NHS trusts and community health centers, providing invaluable patient-facing experience.
• Business and Management: Internships with Kent-based enterprises, including marketing roles and project management positions.
• Creative Arts and Media: Collaborations with industry professionals for film production, graphic design, and event management projects.

These opportunities not only enhance your CV but also boost employability rates, with over 95% of CCCU graduates in work or further study within six months of graduation (based on recent HESA data).

Career Services and Guidance

Our Careers and Employability Service is a one-stop hub for all your professional development needs. Open to students and alumni alike, it offers:

• Personalized career coaching sessions to refine your job search strategies.
• CV and interview workshops, including mock interviews with feedback from industry experts.
• Access to an online job portal featuring exclusive vacancies from partner employers.
• Annual careers fairs, such as the CCCU Careers Expo, where you can network with over 100 organizations, from global corporations like KPMG to local SMEs.

Additionally, we run specialized programs like the Employability Award Scheme, which recognizes students who engage in extracurricular activities, volunteering, and skill-building initiatives. Completing this scheme can give you a competitive edge in applications.

Skills Development Opportunities

CCCU believes in holistic development, so we offer a range of workshops and certifications to build transferable skills. Key programs include:

Program	Description	Benefits
Digital Skills Academy	Training in coding, data analysis, and digital marketing tools.	Enhances tech proficiency for roles in IT, business, and media.
Leadership and Enterprise Programme	Modules on project management, team leadership, and innovation.	Prepares for managerial positions and entrepreneurial ventures.
Global Citizenship Initiative	Workshops on cultural awareness, sustainability, and ethical leadership.	Supports international careers and socially responsible employment.

These initiatives are integrated into your degree or available as electives, ensuring you graduate with a well-rounded skill set.

Alumni Network and Mentoring

Joining CCCU means becoming part of a vibrant alumni community of over 100,000 members worldwide. Our alumni network provides mentoring opportunities, where experienced graduates guide you through career transitions. Events like alumni panels and networking receptions foster lifelong connections, often leading to job referrals and collaborations.

Entrepreneurship and Innovation

For aspiring innovators, CCCU's Hub for Innovation and Enterprise offers incubation spaces, funding advice, and startup workshops. We partner with organizations like Kent Innovation Centre to support student-led businesses. Success stories include graduates who launched sustainable fashion brands and tech apps, securing investments through university-backed pitches.

International Opportunities

CCCU's global outlook opens doors to international experiences. Through the Go Abroad Programme, you can participate in exchange semesters at partner universities in Europe, Asia, and North America. We also facilitate international internships, such as placements with NGOs in developing countries or roles in multinational firms. These experiences build cultural competence and global employability, with many participants securing overseas jobs post-graduation.

In summary, at Canterbury Christ Church University, opportunities abound to transform your education into a launching pad for a successful career. Our supportive environment, practical focus, and extensive networks ensure you're not just prepared, but empowered to excel. Engage early with our services to maximize your potential.