Employability skills

Students talking to tutor on campus

You can get career advice and support by talking to the Employability Team

Career opportunities in a future-focused city

Leeds is a city focused on innovation and lots of businesses are based here. When you study in Leeds, you are sure to be inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit of the city. As a student, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get involved and get a head start on your future career.

Begin learning valuable career skills at the University, with Leeds Beckett rated five out of five stars for employability (QS Stars University Ratings 2024) – making it a great choice for those looking to excel in their future career.

You can start preparing for your career from your time at Leeds International Study Centre. With career skills embedded into your pathway programme, you will build your confidence by taking part in group work to develop your teamwork, problem solving and communication skills. You will also be guided to identify your strengths and supported to create a personal development plan, setting goals for once you progress to the University. 

After progressing to your degree at Leeds Beckett University, you will gain access to the University’s career support services. The Student and Graduate Futures team will help you to build on the work you started at the International Study Centre. During your degree course at the University, you will continue to work towards the goals set out in your personal development plan. 

You'll also have the opportunity to build up work experience by taking up part-time employment or a work placement during your studies. Discover out more about your working rights as part your visa.

Education for employability

Employability skills are at the heart of learning at Leeds Beckett University. You will benefit from work-related learning and tailored careers advice, so that you can develop into an experienced graduate who stands out from the crowd. During your degree you will develop your knowledge and abilities in three key areas:

1. Employability

Learn how to work in a team, solve problems, be a leader and come up with creative ideas. These skills will help you work successfully for a company, or run your own business.

2. Global outlook

Learn to develop a global outlook, which will help you explore and engage with a multicultural and ever-changing world.

3. Digital technology

Learn how to use the latest technology, to improve the way you study on your own, and with others. These skills are widely used in the modern workplace.

Work placements

A work placement gives you a taste of your future career. All undergraduate degrees provide at least two weeks work-related learning and many degrees offer a one year work placement. Leeds Beckett University has links with inspiring and dynamic companies such as Walt Disney, Apple, Porsche and Nike, so you will be able to find a placement that fits in with your career goals.

Accredited courses

Many degrees at Leeds Beckett University have been professionally accredited, which means they may count towards qualifications or registration with a professional body. This makes you stand out as a job candidate.

Help and advice

The Employability Team at Leeds Beckett University can help you shape your CV, write job applications and prepare for job interviews. They can also put you in touch with a career mentor who can provide valuable advice.

Discover the Graduate Immigration Route

Your right to work in the UK

Your Student visa allows you to work up to 10 hours a week during term time, so you can gain career skills alongside your studies. A requirement of your Student visa is a 100% attendance rate for your classes at the International Study Centre. By not attending all of your classes, you risk losing your Student visa and your right to study and work in the UK.

The main focus of your time in the UK should be your studies – so you can gain the skills needed for an international career. 

Work after study

Start your career in the UK with the new Graduate Immigration Route – a 2-year post-study work visa or international students graduating from UK universities. You’ll be able to work for up to two years after graduating with your valid Student visa. Study a pathway programme and take the first step towards working in the UK.

91.3% of graduates

were in work or further study within 15 months of graduation (Percentage of respondents, HESA Graduate outcomes 20-21)

Global companies

Top companies such as Capita, First Direct, Jet2.com and Rockstar Leeds are based in Leeds, so you are in a great place to launch your career.

Students smiling and talking together

Our programmes

Discover our pathway programmes at the International Study Centre and find your route to your chosen undergraduate degree at Leeds Beckett University. 

Students sitting on steps outside campus

How to apply

Ready to make a decision? Our online application process is fast and simple. Find out how you can apply to join us at the International Study Centre. 

Ready to join us?

Our student enrolment advisors are here to help with your application and answer your questions about living and learning in Leeds.