The Leeds approach to employability is based on our commitment to helping all students to decide on their future career; plan to acquire the right experience and skills; and compete in graduate employment markets globally.
The University of Leeds provides all of its students with the opportunity to develop high level skills and attributes that enable them to become exceptional graduates, well prepared to make an impact on global society. Many of the University's courses are professionally accredited. This ensures that students are on the right route towards a career pathway in their chosen field. Regular engagement with private and public sector employers and professional bodies ensures that all our programmes remain dynamic and flexible. We have a longstanding reputation for producing highly employable graduates and Leeds continues to be one of the universities most targeted by graduate recruiters.
Through our innovative Leeds for Life scheme students are encouraged to make the most of their time at University and are supported in learning to articulate clearly and confidently what is distinctive about them and their University of Leeds education. Through the Leeds Model for Personal Tutoring, Leeds for Life ensures that all of our students are regularly advised on career planning and directed to professional careers guidance. We embed employability in the curriculum and encourage all students to:
- recognise the skills they are getting from their course
- discuss and explore career ideas and options
- describe their skills and attributes more effectively
- identify what their future employers are looking for
- reflect on their development and find opportunities outside their course, to enhance and diversify skills
- develop a living CV.
Careers Service
Our Careers Service is fully integrated into Leeds for Life, providing high quality professional support for all our students. In addition to one-to-one guidance, the Service provides access to thousands of opportunities for graduate employment, placements and internships.
Leeds has one of the UK's largest programmes of on-campus employer events, providing opportunities for students to meet employers from all sectors. The Careers Service is a national leader in the provision of formally accredited career development modules and it is a key partner in the Leeds Enterprise Centre, inspiring and rewarding student enterprise through its award-winning graduate business start-up service, 'Spark'.
Work placements and internships
Work placements and internships are available on almost all our programmes, providing students with the opportunity to gain invaluable experience and insight into particular professions and roles. Students are supported by the University before, during and after their placement to make sure they make the most of the experience.
Other students choose to undertake study or work abroad as part of their programme and the University provides specialist language support for these students, allowing them to explore professional as well as academic opportunities in an international context.