One of the best things about studying in Wales is the fact that student employment is at the heart of all the academic programmes. Unique schemes and initiatives, as well as university partnerships with leading companies mean that students receive the very best career-focused education. It comes as no surprise that 92 per cent of graduates from Welsh universities are employed or in further study six months after graduating. As a student in Wales, you can be assured that you will leave university prepared for the workplace.
The AberForward Internship scheme at Aberystwyth University provides graduates with the opportunity to participate in graduate-level employment while at university. Cardiff Metropolitan University has links with over 5,000 companies, ensuring all its courses are industry-focused and that its students engage with the variety of ethical, digital, global and entrepreneurial skills to develop the confidence needed to progress. Swansea University and its Employability Academy are ranked as one of the top 5 in the UK. Its ‘Week at Work’ scheme and career guidance are of great value and are offered to all students from intake to graduation.
As well as the career services on offer, Welsh universities have ongoing projects available for students each year. A range of volunteering and work placement opportunities give students the chance to upskill, get outside their comfort zones and discover their passions.
Frankie who gained an MSc in marine environmental protection at Bangor University says: “My time at university enabled me to create my dream job in a place I love. It’s great being able to continue to support the university and the local community through my work at the Anglesey Sea Zoo.”
Ben, a sport management student at Cardiff Metropolitan University, who went on to become co-founder and managing director of Archer Sports Management says: “During my final year at Cardiff Met, I decided to do an enterprise project. This opportunity allowed me to conduct market research into what a sport agent does, the size of the market, the pool of potential clients, and the estimated cashflow. This process added value to when it came to starting Archer Sports Management after graduation. Seizing this opportunity put me in the business frame of mind to pitch a real-life business venture to an examination board.”
These are just some of the many ways that Welsh universities equip their students for the future. Students studying in Wales have one of the highest chances of being offered valuable and relevant jobs after graduating.
