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Building a career

This is what it's all for. Our award-winning employability programmes and professional support will start your career journey from day one of life at York, and continue forever after you graduate.

No matter your course, interests or ambitions, you'll have support at every stage, from getting to know yourself, to building skills and networks, and – ultimately – landing your dream job.

Bright futures
93.5% of graduates in work or further study 15 months after their degree (latest HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2021/22)
Work experience
Ranked in the Top 25 best UK universities for work experience (RateMyPlacement Awards, 2024)

Getting to know yourself

The crucial beginning. Knowing yourself helps you learn more effectively, understand your unique strengths, and explore the world of work – all of which lead to smarter choices about your future.

Our York Strengths programme helps you understand what makes you stand out in a competitive jobs market, and practice the art of self-reflection, supporting you in finding the right career path.

Everyone is encouraged to get involved in 1st Year, finding guidance from professionals, and joining others on the same mission.

It's a fantastic opportunity to get to know your strengths and weaknesses, so you can develop them for your aspirations.

York student

Building skills and networks

Once you know what you're aiming for, you can focus on making it happen.

We'll help you get the most from your course, and all on offer beyond it: placements, volunteering, internships, global trips, and plenty of other good stuff. It'll not only boost your experience, but your employer connections.

95% of the Times Top 100 Graduate Employers engage with us, as do plenty of smaller and local businesses.

York's work opportunities

I volunteered for Minds in Motion, who hold events for people living with dementia. My role included organising all the logistics, like booking venues and inviting guests. I’ve realised that working for a charity is what I want to do in the future.

York student

Landing your dream job

You've come to understand yourself. You've made your connections. You've grown. Our York Award is a formal celebration of your efforts, and shows employers how serious you are about putting your new talent into action.

To enter the working world, you'll have access to mock interviews, assessment centres, CV reviews and more – getting you used to showing off the very best of yourself.

A massive thank you for my mock interview – I got the job! Thanks so much for boosting my confidence. Your suggestion to approach the interview like I’m going to talk over a coffee with someone helped me so much, and put me at ease.

York student

And beyond…

When you graduate, you'll join our York for Life programme – a ticket to lifelong support with CVs, interviews and more, for wherever your journey leads.

94% of our students entered work or further study within 15 months of graduating (latest HESA graduate survey).

Let's make it happen.

Explore full Careers resources for current students