Career and Employment Opportunities

The University of Gloucestershire offers a wealth of career-focused opportunities designed to equip students with practical skills and real-world experience. Through its dedicated Careers and Employability Service, students gain access to personalized advice, CV workshops, and interview preparation sessions. The university boasts a 95% employability rate within six months of graduation, thanks to strong industry partnerships with companies like the BBC, Disney, and local businesses in the creative and environmental sectors.

• Work Placements: Integrated into many degree programs, these provide hands-on experience. For instance, business students can secure placements at multinational firms, while those in environmental sciences work on conservation projects with organizations like the Wildlife Trusts.
• Graduate Schemes: Exclusive access to schemes from employers such as KPMG and the Civil Service, with tailored application support.
• Mentoring Programs: Pairing with alumni and industry professionals for guidance on career progression.

Internships and Industry Placements

Internships are a cornerstone of the university's approach to experiential learning. With over 1,000 placement opportunities annually, students in fields like media, sports, and computing can immerse themselves in professional environments. The Year in Industry option allows a full year of paid work, often leading to job offers post-graduation.

Program	Duration	Key Benefits
Summer Internships	8-12 weeks	Paid roles in creative industries; networking events
Degree-Embedded Placements	6-12 months	Academic credit; enhanced employability skills
International Internships	3-6 months	Global exposure via partnerships in Europe and Asia

These opportunities are supported by the university's Placement Team, which helps secure positions and provides visa assistance for international students.

Study Abroad and International Exchanges

Embracing a global outlook, the University of Gloucestershire facilitates study abroad programs through its membership in networks like the Erasmus+ scheme. Students can spend a semester or year at partner institutions in over 20 countries, including the USA, Australia, and Japan. This not only broadens cultural horizons but also enhances resumes with international credentials.

• Exchange Programs: Tuition-free exchanges with credits transferable to your degree.
• Short-Term Mobility: Summer schools and faculty-led trips focused on themes like sustainability and digital media.
• Language and Cultural Immersion: Scholarships available for non-EU students to fund exchanges.

The Global Opportunities Team offers pre-departure briefings and ongoing support, ensuring a seamless experience.

Research and Innovation Opportunities

For those inclined towards academia or innovation, the university provides robust research avenues. Undergraduate research internships allow students to collaborate on projects funded by bodies like the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). The Research, Innovation and Enterprise department supports interdisciplinary work in areas such as climate change, health, and digital technologies.

1. Join the Student Research Conference to present findings and network with experts.
2. Apply for Research Assistantships, paid roles assisting faculty on grant-funded studies.
3. Participate in Innovation Challenges, where teams develop solutions to real-world problems, often leading to startup funding.

Postgraduate students benefit from PhD scholarships and access to state-of-the-art facilities, including the Cyber Park for tech innovation.

Entrepreneurship and Startup Support

The university fosters an entrepreneurial spirit through the Business Growth Hub and Launchpad Incubator. Aspiring entrepreneurs receive mentorship, workspace, and seed funding up to £5,000 via the Student Enterprise Awards. Events like the annual GlosPitch competition connect students with investors.

• Incubation Programs: 12-month support for launching ventures in sectors like eco-tourism and app development.
• Workshops: Training in business planning, pitching, and IP protection.
• Alumni Network: Over 80,000 graduates offering advice and collaboration opportunities.

Extracurricular and Leadership Opportunities

Beyond academics, students can engage in over 50 societies and sports clubs, from the Climbing Society to the Entrepreneurship Club. Leadership roles in the Student Union build transferable skills, while volunteering programs with local charities enhance community impact.

Volunteering opportunities include environmental clean-ups and mentoring schoolchildren, with certification for CVs. The university's commitment to inclusivity ensures opportunities for all, including support for underrepresented groups through targeted scholarships and events.

In summary, the University of Gloucestershire's opportunities empower students to thrive professionally and personally, blending academic rigor with practical application for lifelong success.