Careers and employability

We know that real-world experience is increasingly important to employers when they are looking at graduate recruits, and depending on which course you choose, you may be able to take part in a work placement, lasting from a few months up to a year. Apple, Bayer, Cadbury, Experian, Kelloggs, Marks & Spencer, Nestle and Tesco – all big brands that you will have heard of, but they are also global employers with whom The University of Nottingham has valuable links that could benefit you. Alongside our links with global employers, we also have a strong network of local small and medium sized companies, who work closely with us to recruit Nottingham talent.

All of our students are encouraged to undertake some element of work experience during the course of their studies.

A large amount of international employers approach us each year with a view to recruiting our students after they have graduated, an indication that our graduates and the skills they develop are well-regarded by those who count. Our Careers team has colleagues based in Shanghai and Kuala Lumpur who are developing global connections with graduate employers on a daily basis.

As well as studying your chosen subject it’s a good idea to use your time at Nottingham to widen your knowledge and skillset in the area of employability too. Not only can this be really enjoyable but this extra effort is invaluable once you have graduated, and is what employers are looking out for as well as your degree. 

Our Careers and Employability Service can help you with:

• work placement opportunities – we have links with hundreds of employers, making it easier to help you find a work placement
• your CV, applications and interview techniques – we can use our expert knowledge to give you advice about what employers are looking for
• keeping in the loop – our wide range of skills workshops, employability events, recruitment fairs and employer presentations will provide you with key careers information 
• finding work while studying – our University owned agency, Unitemps, can help you find casual work while studying, with hundreds of vacancies advertised each year
• your professional development – for extra recognition we offer The Nottingham Advantage Award, where students can achieve extra credits from a range of modules tailored to help you gain essential career skills

Faculty-based Careers teams deliver tailored advice and guidance for your area of study. They have the expertise to guide you through choosing a career and recruitment practices. You can discuss your career ideas and have an application form reviewed on a one-to-one basis, attend job-search workshops and meet professionals and alumni from a variety of career sectors.

Our Students’ Union is one of the biggest and best in the country, and as well as offering many opportunities that will make sure University is fun and exciting, there is a useful side to everything they offer as well. Being able to say you were activities officer for a society or that you helped organise Graduation Ball will look good on your CV, and demonstrate to employers that you are committed and enthusiastic about activities beyond your degree.

Have a look at the Students’ Union’s dedicated employability webpage.