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Placement and Employability Support at Goldsmiths, University of London
Goldsmiths, University of London, is renowned for its innovative approach to education in creative and cultural fields, including arts, media, design, humanities, and social sciences. The university places a strong emphasis on preparing students for dynamic careers through comprehensive placement and employability services. The Goldsmiths Careers Service acts as a central hub, offering tailored support to help students and graduates transition into the professional world. Whether you're seeking internships, graduate jobs, or freelance opportunities in the creative industries, Goldsmiths equips you with the tools, networks, and experiences needed to succeed.
Careers Service Overview
The Careers Service at Goldsmiths provides year-round support, from the first year of study through to alumni networks. Key offerings include:
- One-to-One Advice: Personalized consultations with career advisors to develop CVs, cover letters, and LinkedIn profiles tailored to creative sectors.
- Workshops and Events: Regular sessions on job hunting, interview techniques, networking, and entrepreneurship. Popular events include the annual Creative Careers Fair, connecting students with employers from media, advertising, and tech industries.
- Online Resources: Access to a dedicated portal with job listings, industry insights, and virtual career modules. Tools like Prospects and the Goldsmiths Employability Award help track skill development.
- Mentoring Programs: Pairing with industry professionals and alumni for guidance in fields like journalism, graphic design, and curation.
These services are free for all students and extend to graduates for up to three years post-graduation, ensuring long-term career progression.
Employment Statistics and Outcomes
Goldsmiths boasts impressive employability rates, with graduates entering diverse roles in creative, cultural, and professional sectors. According to the latest Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) data, 92% of Goldsmiths graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation. The university excels in fostering self-employment and freelance careers, particularly in the arts and media.
Here's a breakdown of key statistics:
Graduate Destination | Percentage | Common Roles |
---|---|---|
Full-time Employment | 65% | Designer, Journalist, Curator, Marketer |
Further Study | 20% | MA/PhD in Arts, Media, or Social Sciences |
Self-Employment/Freelance | 15% | Artist, Filmmaker, Consultant |
Unemployment | 5% | N/A |
Average starting salaries for Goldsmiths graduates range from £25,000 to £35,000, with higher earnings in digital media and advertising (up to £40,000). Notable alumni include artists like Damien Hirst and media figures like Dido, highlighting the university's track record in launching influential careers.
Placement Opportunities and Internships
Goldsmiths integrates practical placements into many degree programs, allowing students to gain hands-on experience. Departments like Media, Communications, and Cultural Studies mandate internships as part of the curriculum, often with partners such as the BBC, Tate Modern, and Google.
Types of placements include:
- Short-Term Internships: 4-12 weeks during summer breaks, focusing on real-world projects in creative agencies or cultural institutions.
- Year-in-Industry Placements: Full-year opportunities sandwiched between years 2 and 3 of study, available in fields like computing and design. These are supported by funding from the university's Placement Bursary Scheme, covering travel and living expenses up to £2,000.
- Volunteering and Work Experience: Partnerships with organizations like the Southbank Centre and local startups provide entry-level roles that build portfolios.
- International Placements: Opportunities abroad through the Erasmus+ program, including exchanges in Europe and beyond for media and arts students.
The university's location in New Cross, South London, offers proximity to London's vibrant creative hub, with easy access to internships in Soho, Shoreditch, and the West End. Over 80% of placements lead to job offers or valuable references, enhancing graduate employability.
Industry Partnerships and Alumni Network
Goldsmiths collaborates with leading employers to bridge academia and industry. Key partners include Channel 4, Penguin Random House, and the British Film Institute, which offer exclusive recruitment pipelines and guest lectures. The Goldsmiths Alumni Association connects over 50,000 graduates worldwide, facilitating mentorship and job referrals. Annual networking events, such as the Alumni Careers Symposium, feature panels with successful graduates sharing insights on navigating freelance markets and career pivots.
For international students, dedicated support includes visa guidance for post-study work visas and tailored advice on global job markets. The university also runs initiatives like the Creative Enterprise Zone, incubating student startups with access to funding and co-working spaces.
Accessing Placement Support
To get started, students can book appointments via the Careers Service website or attend drop-in sessions held weekly in the Richard Hoggart Building. First-year students are encouraged to join the Employability Passport program early, which logs extracurricular activities and skills for future applications. For more information, visit the Goldsmiths website or email careers@gold.ac.uk.
In summary, Goldsmiths' commitment to placements fosters not just jobs, but meaningful careers in creative fields. With robust support systems and strong industry ties, graduates are well-positioned to thrive in a competitive landscape.
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