Ensure that employability and skills learning are embedded into degree programs, such that students are supported and prepared for their careers. 

Lead Officer: Angus, SU President

What is the issue about?

The job market is extremely competitive, and university degrees typically have not kept up. As such, many graduates find themselves with a certificate, yet no direction or support. 

“Just over a third of UK student (36.5%) cannot say with any conviction that their time at university is preparing them for a career.” 

• WonkHe Study: ‘When does this degree take me?’ 

The issue is not necessarily that opportunities for personal development don’t exist, but rather if students are able to access them meaningfully. An example barrier is that extra-curricular opportunities automatically disadvantage students who do not have the financial freedom or time to do them (e.g. students with part-time jobs). 

There must be specific improvements made for international students and postgraduate students; students who typically have the highest career optimism coming into their degrees but then have the worst career outcomes. 

In short, the University must seek to improve its employability approach across the board; expanding best practises, exploring new initiatives and ensuring students are supported. 

What are we asking the University to do?

 We are making four key asks of the University; (1)Expand existing practises and explore new initiatives, to embed skills learning in degree programs, (2) Give students a platform to understand how their degree program will lead to a career, (3) Provide tailored transition support for final year students & PGT students, and (4) Provide tailored transition support for international students.

What will success look like?

We are not going to completely solve this issue within a year. This Top 10 is aimed to illustrate the importance of career readiness and kickstart work to achieve the 4 asks in the long term. Therefore, success will be measured on having achieved improvements and commitments within each ask, rather than completing the ask in itself. 

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