Overview of Placement Opportunities at SOAS University of London

SOAS University of London is renowned for its focus on the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, and its placement services are tailored to equip students with the skills and connections needed for global careers. The university's Careers Service plays a pivotal role in supporting students and recent graduates in securing placements, internships, and full-time employment. With a strong emphasis on employability, SOAS boasts impressive graduate outcomes, where over 90% of graduates are in work or further study within six months of graduation, according to the latest Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) data.

The Careers Service offers personalized guidance, from CV workshops to mock interviews, ensuring students are well-prepared for the competitive job market. Placements at SOAS are not just about job hunting; they foster real-world experience in sectors like international development, diplomacy, finance, and cultural heritage.

Key Placement Programs and Initiatives

• Internship Opportunities: SOAS partners with organizations such as the United Nations, Amnesty International, and major NGOs to provide paid and unpaid internships. The SOAS Internship Programme connects students with placements in London and abroad, often in fields like human rights, sustainable development, and global trade.
• Work Placements Module: Integrated into many degree programs, this module allows students to undertake short-term placements (8-12 weeks) during their studies. Examples include roles at the British Museum's Asia department or policy internships at think tanks like Chatham House.
• Global Mobility Scheme: Funded placements overseas, particularly in Asia and Africa, enable students to gain international experience. Recent placements have included positions at the African Development Bank and cultural exchange programs in Japan.

These programs are accessible to both undergraduate and postgraduate students, with dedicated support for international students navigating UK visa requirements for work placements.

Employability Statistics and Graduate Outcomes

SOAS graduates are highly sought after for their specialized knowledge and intercultural skills. The university's Graduate Outcomes Survey highlights strong performance in diverse sectors:

Sector	Percentage of Graduates Employed	Top Employers
International Organizations & NGOs	35%	UN, Oxfam, World Bank
Finance & Business	25%	HSBC, Barclays, Deloitte
Government & Diplomacy	20%	Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Embassies
Media & Culture	15%	BBC World Service, British Library
Further Study	5%	PhD programs at SOAS or other top universities

These figures demonstrate SOAS's success in preparing students for impactful careers. The average starting salary for SOAS graduates is around £28,000, with higher earnings in specialized roles like international law or development consulting.

Support Services for Placements

The Careers Service at SOAS provides comprehensive support to maximize placement success:

1. One-to-One Advising: Personalized sessions with career consultants who specialize in global and regional job markets.
2. Skills Workshops: Regular sessions on topics like negotiation skills, digital literacy, and language enhancement, crucial for placements in multilingual environments.
3. Networking Events: Annual careers fairs, alumni panels, and employer talks featuring guests from organizations like the Asia House and the School of Oriental and African Studies network.
4. Online Resources: Access to a dedicated job portal, LinkedIn optimization guides, and virtual internship databases.
5. Mentoring Program: Pairing with SOAS alumni in senior positions for guidance on placement applications and career progression.

Additionally, SOAS's Employability Award recognizes students who actively pursue placements, offering certificates and enhanced CV endorsements.

Industry Connections and Partnerships

SOAS's location in the heart of London provides unparalleled access to global institutions. The university maintains strong ties with employers through its Corporate Engagement Team, which facilitates bespoke placement opportunities. Notable partnerships include:

• Collaborations with the City of London for finance placements focused on emerging markets.
• Joint programs with the British Council for cultural diplomacy internships.
• Research-led placements with institutions like the Institute of Development Studies.

These connections ensure that placements align with SOAS's academic strengths, allowing students to apply their knowledge of languages, history, and politics directly in professional settings.

Success Stories and Tips for Securing Placements

Many SOAS alumni have leveraged placements to launch stellar careers. For instance, a recent Development Studies graduate secured a placement at UNICEF, leading to a permanent role in child rights advocacy. Another alumnus from the Law program interned at the International Criminal Court, paving the way for a career in human rights law.

To succeed in SOAS placements, students should:

• Tailor applications to highlight regional expertise and language skills.
• Attend career events early in their degree.
• Build a portfolio of extracurricular activities, such as volunteering with SOAS societies.
• Utilize the university's alumni network for referrals.

In summary, SOAS University of London's placement services offer a robust framework for career development, blending academic rigor with practical experience. Whether aiming for international NGOs or corporate roles, students benefit from tailored support that opens doors to a world of opportunities.