Employment opportunities

With placements, work experience and career support, we help students get the most out of university and make sure they're ready for the world of work.

Whether your child has a clear career path in mind or needs more time to decide, studying at university can boost their future prospects. They will develop a range of transferable skills, such as problem-solving, organisation, working to deadlines, decision-making, presentation and research. These are all valuable skills for many different careers.

Before applying for university, encourage your son or daughter to sit down and think about what they want to do in terms of a career. If they start thinking about it now, they can plan relevant work experience and placements and give themselves the best opportunity to succeed in a career that they want to pursue.

Opportunities available at university

Placement year

A placement year is an integrated component of a student's course that counts towards their final degree award. Derby’s strong links with industry leaders have previously seen our students gain placements at companies such as Microsoft, Bentley, Porsche, Rolls-Royce, Toyota and IBM.

Work experience

During university holidays, we encourage students to organise work experience or internships. This is the perfect time to start gaining that all-important experience within a relevant industry, which will set them apart from other graduates. Relevant work experience looks great on a CV and many students go on to secure a role with their placement organisation after graduating.

Study abroad

Another great way for your son or daughter to gain experience, expand their skills and set themselves apart from other applicants is to study abroad. It shows that they are outgoing and prepared to try new experiences, even if it pushes them out of their comfort zone.

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Expand their network

Part of university life is getting involved in activities and joining the clubs and societies that interest them. Expanding their network not only makes their time at university fulfilling but could also help their career.

Student employment

Part-time employment while studying is a great way for students to help support themselves and improve their employability for the future.

Our Careers and Employment Service is there to support with applying for part-time work as well as organising work placements. Our Be the Boss programme is aimed at students and graduates who want to start their own business. It offers a range of enterprise support including business networking events, workshops and online tutorials. 

The future

For up to three years after graduation, our Careers and Employment Service will support and guide students offering one-to-one appointments with employment advisers, career planning, CV tailoring and preparing for interviews.