Placement Information at Glasgow Caledonian London Campus

Glasgow Caledonian University London Campus (GCU London) is committed to enhancing student employability through robust placement programs and career support services. Located in the heart of London, the campus offers unique access to a vibrant job market, enabling students to gain practical experience in diverse industries. Our placement initiatives are designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional careers, with a focus on real-world application, networking, and skill development. Whether you're pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees in areas like business, finance, law, or digital media, GCU London provides tailored opportunities to secure internships, placements, and graduate roles.

Career Services and Support

The dedicated Careers and Employability Team at GCU London plays a pivotal role in guiding students from orientation to post-graduation. Services are available throughout your studies and for up to three years after completion, ensuring long-term career success.

• One-on-One Advising: Personalized consultations to refine CVs, cover letters, and LinkedIn profiles. Mock interviews are conducted to build confidence and interview techniques.
• Workshops and Seminars: Regular sessions on topics such as job search strategies, networking skills, and industry trends. Guest speakers from leading firms share insights into the London job market.
• Online Resources: Access to a comprehensive e-portfolio platform, job boards, and virtual career fairs. The GCU London app provides on-the-go updates on opportunities.
• International Support: For global students, visa guidance and international placement options are available, including partnerships with organizations in Europe and beyond.

These services are integrated into the curriculum, with many programs incorporating mandatory placement modules to ensure hands-on experience.

Placement Opportunities and Programs

GCU London emphasizes experiential learning through structured placement programs. Placements typically last from 6 to 12 months, depending on the course, and are often paid, offering stipends that range from £18,000 to £25,000 annually. Students can opt for sandwich placements (integrated into degree programs) or summer internships.

Key Programs with Built-in Placements:

1. BSc (Hons) International Business Management: Includes a year-long placement in multinational corporations, focusing on global trade and marketing.
2. MSc Risk Management: Features 3-6 month placements in financial institutions, emphasizing compliance and risk assessment.
3. LLM International Commercial Law: Offers placements in law firms, dealing with contract negotiations and international disputes.
4. MSc Digital Marketing: Involves internships with digital agencies, covering SEO, social media, and analytics.

Placements are sourced through university partnerships and direct applications. The campus's central London location facilitates easy access to opportunities in the City of London, Canary Wharf, and creative hubs like Shoreditch.

Placement Statistics and Outcomes

GCU London boasts impressive employability rates, with 95% of graduates in employment or further study within six months of graduation (based on the latest Graduate Outcomes survey). Our placement program has a success rate of over 85% for securing relevant positions.

Academic Year	Placement Uptake (%)	Average Starting Salary (£)	Top Industries
2022-2023	88%	24,500	Finance, Consulting, Tech
2021-2022	86%	23,200	Business Services, Media, Legal
2020-2021	82%	22,000	Retail, Hospitality, Digital

These figures highlight the program's effectiveness, with many students receiving full-time offers post-placement. Sectors like finance and technology dominate, reflecting London's economic landscape.

Partner Companies and Networking

GCU London collaborates with a network of over 200 employers, ensuring diverse placement options. Notable partners include:

• Financial Sector: HSBC, Barclays, Deloitte – for roles in banking and auditing.
• Tech and Media: Google, BBC, Ogilvy – focusing on digital innovation and content creation.
• Professional Services: PwC, KPMG, Clifford Chance – offering placements in consulting and law.
• Startups and SMEs: Through London Tech Week partnerships, students engage with emerging companies in fintech and e-commerce.

Annual career fairs, such as the GCU London Employability Expo, connect students directly with recruiters. Alumni networks further extend these opportunities, with many graduates returning as mentors.

Success Stories and Student Preparation

Consider Aisha Patel, a recent MSc International Marketing graduate who secured a placement at Unilever, leading to a permanent role as a Brand Manager. "The support from GCU London's careers team was invaluable," she shares. Similarly, James Wong from the BSc Accounting program interned at Ernst & Young, gaining qualifications that accelerated his career.

To maximize placement success, students should:

• Maintain a strong GPA and engage in extracurriculars like the Business Society.
• Build a professional online presence and attend networking events.
• Seek early feedback on applications through the Employability Hub.

In summary, GCU London's placement ecosystem equips students with the tools, experiences, and connections needed to thrive in competitive industries. By leveraging our resources, you'll not only gain practical skills but also position yourself for a rewarding career in London's dynamic job market.