At St Mary's University Twickenham, students have access to a wealth of opportunities designed to enhance their academic, professional, and personal development. Located in the vibrant southwest London borough of Richmond upon Thames, the university fosters an inclusive environment that encourages exploration and growth. Whether you're pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies, these opportunities are tailored to help you build skills, networks, and experiences that last a lifetime.

Academic Opportunities

St Mary's emphasizes innovative teaching and research, providing students with numerous avenues to deepen their knowledge and engage in cutting-edge scholarship. The university's Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 results highlight its strengths in education, sports science, and drama, offering platforms for involvement in impactful projects.

• Undergraduate Research Internships: Participate in paid summer internships within university departments, allowing you to contribute to real research under expert supervision. Past projects have included studies on child development and sustainable sports practices.
• Study Abroad and Exchange Programs: Collaborate with partner institutions worldwide, such as universities in the USA, Europe, and Asia. Programs like the Erasmus+ initiative enable a semester abroad, immersing you in diverse cultures while earning credits toward your degree.
• Honorary Degrees and Guest Lectures: Attend series featuring renowned figures from education, media, and sports, providing insights and networking opportunities.

Additionally, the St Mary's Research Centre supports interdisciplinary work, where students can join themed hubs focused on health, education, and creative arts.

Career and Employability Opportunities

With a graduate employability rate above 95% (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2020/21), St Mary's prioritizes practical experience to prepare you for the job market. The dedicated Careers and Employability Service offers personalized guidance from day one.

Opportunity Type	Description	Benefits
Work Placements	Mandatory or elective placements integrated into courses, especially in education, business, and health sciences. Partners include local schools, NHS trusts, and global firms like Deloitte.	Gain hands-on experience; many placements lead to full-time offers post-graduation.
Internships and Volunteering	Access to the St Mary's Internship Scheme, offering short-term roles in London-based organizations. Volunteering opportunities through the Student Union include community coaching and charity events.	Build your CV; develop soft skills like teamwork and leadership.
Graduate Schemes and Networking	Annual Careers Fairs connecting you with top employers such as BBC, KPMG, and Teach First. Mock interviews and CV workshops are available year-round.	Secure graduate roles; expand professional networks in a supportive setting.

Entrepreneurial students can tap into the Enterprise Hub, which provides funding, mentorship, and incubation space for startups, particularly in education technology and sports innovation.

Extracurricular and Student Life Opportunities

Beyond academics, St Mary's vibrant campus life offers endless ways to get involved, promoting well-being and community. The Student Union (SU) represents over 5,000 members and runs more than 40 societies and 50 sports clubs.

• Societies and Clubs: Join groups like the Drama Society for theater productions, the Environmental Society for sustainability campaigns, or the Black and Minority Ethnic Society for cultural events. These foster friendships and leadership skills.
• Sports and Fitness: As a BUCS (British Universities and Colleges Sport) champion, the university boasts top-tier facilities including a sports hall, gym, and all-weather pitches. Opportunities range from varsity teams in rugby and netball to recreational yoga and dance classes.
• Arts and Media: Engage with the St Mary's Players for performances at the on-campus theater or contribute to the student newspaper and radio station, honing creative talents.

The university also hosts festivals like the annual Arts Festival, showcasing student work in music, film, and visual arts, often leading to industry connections.

International and Inclusive Opportunities

St Mary's welcomes a diverse student body from over 100 countries, ensuring inclusive opportunities for all. The International Office supports visa advice, language courses, and buddy schemes for newcomers.

• Scholarships and Funding: Merit-based awards like the International Excellence Scholarship (up to £4,000) and subject-specific bursaries reduce financial barriers.
• Accessibility and Support: Dedicated services for students with disabilities, mental health resources via the Wellbeing Team, and equality initiatives through the Athena SWAN charter.

In summary, St Mary's University Twickenham equips you with transformative opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. By engaging with these resources, you'll emerge not just qualified, but confident and connected, ready to make a positive impact in your chosen field. Explore these options during open days or through the student portal to start your journey today.