Career and Employability Opportunities

Oxford Brookes University is renowned for its strong focus on preparing students for successful careers. With a commitment to employability, the university integrates practical skills and industry connections into its curriculum. Graduates from Oxford Brookes enjoy high employment rates, with over 95% of graduates in work or further study within six months of graduation, according to the latest Longitudinal Education Outcomes data.

• Professional Placements: Many degree programs, especially in business, engineering, and health sciences, include optional or mandatory work placements lasting up to 12 months. These placements provide hands-on experience with leading companies like BMW, the NHS, and Procter & Gamble.
• Career Services: The Brookes Careers team offers personalized advice, CV workshops, mock interviews, and access to an extensive job vacancy database. Students can attend career fairs featuring over 100 employers annually.
• Entrepreneurship Support: Through the Oxford Brookes Business School's Enterprise Hub, students receive mentoring, funding advice, and incubation space to launch startups. Notable alumni include the founders of Innocent Drinks.

Internships and Work Experience

Internships are a cornerstone of the Oxford Brookes experience, bridging the gap between academia and the professional world. The university's dedicated Internship Office connects students with opportunities across sectors, from finance to creative industries.

Program	Duration	Key Benefits
Summer Internships	8-12 weeks	Paid positions; networking events; skill-building workshops
Year-in-Industry	Up to 1 year	Academic credit; salary; direct pathway to graduate roles
Volunteering Placements	Flexible	Community impact; leadership development; portfolio enhancement

Recent partnerships with organizations like Siemens and the BBC have led to exclusive internship schemes, ensuring students gain relevant, cutting-edge experience.

International and Study Abroad Opportunities

Oxford Brookes embraces a global outlook, offering students the chance to broaden their horizons through international programs. With partnerships in over 100 countries, the university facilitates exchanges, study abroad, and dual-degree options.

• Exchange Programs: Spend a semester or year at partner institutions such as the University of California or RMIT in Australia, with tuition fees waived and grants available.
• Short-Term Mobility: Summer schools and faculty-led trips to destinations like China and South Africa focus on cultural immersion and specialized topics.
• Global Challenges: Participate in international projects addressing issues like sustainability and public health, collaborating with students worldwide.

These opportunities not only enhance academic profiles but also develop intercultural skills valued by global employers.

Scholarships and Financial Support

Financial barriers should not hinder potential. Oxford Brookes provides a range of scholarships and bursaries to support diverse student needs.

• Merit-Based Awards: International Excellence Scholarships worth up to £2,000 per year for high-achieving overseas students.
• Need-Based Bursaries: The Access to Brookes Fund offers up to £1,500 for UK students from low-income backgrounds.
• Subject-Specific Funding: Engineering and architecture students can access grants from industry sponsors like the Institution of Civil Engineers.

Additionally, part-time work opportunities on campus, including roles in libraries and student unions, help students gain experience while funding their studies.

Research and Innovation Opportunities

For those inclined towards academia or innovation, Oxford Brookes offers robust research pathways. The university's research is rated as world-leading in areas like sustainable engineering and health sciences.

• Undergraduate Research: Join the annual Undergraduate Research Excellence Scheme (URES) to work on faculty-led projects with funding and presentation opportunities.
• Postgraduate Research: Pursue MPhil or PhD programs with scholarships covering fees and stipends, often in collaboration with Oxford's research ecosystem.
• Innovation Hubs: The Sustainable Engineering Lab and the Centre for Health and Wellbeing provide state-of-the-art facilities for cutting-edge work.

Student Life and Extracurricular Opportunities

Beyond academics, Oxford Brookes fosters a vibrant community through over 150 student societies and sports clubs. From the Debating Society to the Climbing Club, these groups build leadership and networking skills.

The Student Union organizes events like the annual Brookes Ball and international cultural festivals, creating lasting memories and connections. Volunteering initiatives, such as the Active Citizens program, allow students to engage with local communities in Oxford, enhancing employability through real-world impact.

In summary, Oxford Brookes University equips students with diverse opportunities to excel academically, professionally, and personally. Whether through internships, global exchanges, or research endeavors, the university's supportive environment paves the way for future success.