Working in the UK: during your studies

The Sheffield Jobs Market

Sheffield has a population of over half a million with a larger than average student population.

The top three industries employing Sheffield people are:

• Health and Social Work 
• Retail and Wholesale
• Education

Sheffield also has an important role in advanced manufacturing.

Over 50% of people are employed in management and professional roles which is currently 2% lower than the UK average.

This article from the Office for National Statistics breaks down the Sheffield labour market in more detail.

Part time work

Many students work part time in local companies.  There are more part time jobs in sectors such as hospitality, warehouse work, care work, call centres and retail. It is harder to get office roles without previous experience. The University holds a part time jobs fair in October. In addition to the University’s Career Connect website here are some other useful resources to find part time jobs.

Part time work helps you to understand UK working culture as well as develop your transferable skills. However it is important that these demands do not impact on your studies. myJobshop has lots of information you need to know about working in the UK, recording working hours and visa requirements during your studies.

Internships

Internships can vary in length from a few weeks up to a year. Some organisations may offer unpaid internships. Take advice from the Employability Team before accepting any unpaid role.

Internships that last for a year and meet the skill requirements for a placement could be approved as a placement year. You can find out more information about internships and placement years here. You can also read all about year long placements as part of your degree in our placements section.

Some internships are for specific groups of people who are underrepresented in the company e.g.  minority ethnic groups or people with disabilities. Always check the eligibility criteria before applying. Here are some examples of internships aimed at minority ethnic groups- some of which may be suitable for international students.

Careers Fairs

Careers Fairs will take place at the University in both semesters. The largest Careers Fair is in October when employers visit the University to advertise graduate roles, placements and internships. The fairs are a great chance to find out more about companies and jobs in person. A definite MUST DO in the careers calendar. 

All Career Fairs will be advertised on Career Connect.

Dedicated International Careers Advice and Consultation

The Management School has a dedicated Careers Adviser for International students based in the school’s Employability Hub. We also have two Careers and Employability Consultants who are well equipped to support your career thinking.

You can book a one-to-one appointment with a management school adviser through Career Connect here.

We also have a dedicated central careers and employability service focussed on international student support. You can watch a video specifically created with international students in mind, giving an outline of the recruitment cycle in the UK.

Live Interviews and Applications Courses

As a management school student we can offer you free online live courses with advisers from the Careers and Employability Service. These sessions are available on various dates throughout the year.

To read more about the courses on offer and secure your place on the next available course click here.