Employability and Graduate Outcomes

The University of Portsmouth boasts an impressive track record in graduate employability, with 95% of graduates in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation, according to the latest Graduate Outcomes survey. This high success rate is driven by the university's commitment to practical, industry-relevant education and robust career support services. Whether you're studying business, engineering, health sciences, or creative arts, Portsmouth equips you with the skills employers demand in a competitive job market.

Our programs emphasize real-world application, including work placements, projects with industry partners, and access to cutting-edge facilities. This hands-on approach ensures that graduates are not just theoretically knowledgeable but ready to contribute immediately in professional settings.

Career Services and Support

The Careers and Employability Service at the University of Portsmouth is a cornerstone of student success, offering personalized guidance from day one of your studies. Available to both undergraduates and postgraduates, the service provides:

• One-on-one career coaching: Tailored advice on CV writing, interview techniques, and career planning.
• Workshops and seminars: Regular sessions on topics like networking, personal branding, and job search strategies.
• Online resources: Access to a comprehensive job portal, LinkedIn optimization tools, and virtual career fairs.
• Mentoring programs: Connections with alumni and industry professionals for ongoing support.

Throughout your degree, you'll have opportunities to build your professional network through events like the annual Portsmouth Careers Fair, which attracts over 100 employers, including global giants like IBM, Deloitte, and the NHS.

Placements and Internships

Many courses at Portsmouth incorporate sandwich placements or internships, allowing you to gain up to a year's worth of professional experience without extending your degree duration. These opportunities are integrated into programs in fields such as engineering, law, business, and computing.

• Placement success rate: Over 80% of eligible students secure placements, often leading to graduate job offers.
• Duration and support: Placements typically last 6-12 months, with dedicated coordinators providing visa assistance for international students and funding options like the Erasmus+ program.
• Key benefits: Hands-on experience, enhanced employability, and the chance to apply academic knowledge in real scenarios.

For those not on placement-integrated courses, the university's Employability Plus Award encourages voluntary internships and extracurricular activities, rewarding participants with certification that boosts their CVs.

Graduate Employment Statistics

Portsmouth graduates enjoy strong starting salaries and diverse career paths. Below is a snapshot of key statistics based on recent data:

Subject Area	Employment Rate (%)	Average Starting Salary (£)	Top Job Roles
Business and Management	96	28,000	Marketing Executive, Financial Analyst, HR Advisor
Engineering	94	30,500	Design Engineer, Project Manager, Civil Engineer
Computing and IT	97	32,000	Software Developer, Data Analyst, Cybersecurity Specialist
Health and Social Care	98	25,000	Nurse, Social Worker, Physiotherapist
Creative Industries	92	24,500	Graphic Designer, Film Producer, Journalist

These figures highlight Portsmouth's alignment with industry needs, with many graduates securing roles in high-demand sectors like technology, healthcare, and finance.

Top Employers and Industry Partnerships

The university has forged strong ties with leading organizations, facilitating direct recruitment pipelines. Notable employers who regularly hire Portsmouth graduates include:

• Public Sector: NHS, Ministry of Defence, Local Councils
• Private Sector: BAE Systems, KPMG, Microsoft, Rolls-Royce
• Creative and Tech: BBC, Ubisoft, PwC
• International Opportunities: Partnerships with firms in Europe, Asia, and the US for global placements.

Through initiatives like the Portsmouth Knowledge Exchange, students collaborate on live projects with businesses, bridging the gap between academia and industry.

Alumni Success Stories

Portsmouth alumni have gone on to achieve remarkable success, serving as inspiration for current students. For instance:

• Sarah Thompson, a Business graduate now heading marketing at Unilever, credits her placement year for her rapid career progression.
• Dr. Raj Patel, an Engineering alumnus, leads renewable energy projects at Siemens, starting with a university internship.
• Lisa Chen, an international Computing student, founded her own tech startup after securing funding through university networks.

The Alumni Network offers lifelong access to career services, mentoring, and exclusive job postings, ensuring your Portsmouth journey continues to propel your career forward.

In summary, the University of Portsmouth's placement and employability support is designed to maximize your potential, providing a launchpad for a fulfilling professional life. With dedicated resources, real-world opportunities, and a proven track record, you'll be well-prepared to thrive in your chosen field.