Employment opportunities after graduating from the University of Reading

The University of Reading is a fantastic option for international students, offering excellent opportunities for graduates to start their careers in the UK. According to the Graduate Outcomes Survey 2020/21, 94% of University of Reading graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduating.

The University of Reading offers its students and graduates a careers service that provides in-person and virtual support for career planning and professional development. As well as offering one-to-one appointments, the careers service runs an extensive programme of events, both on the campus and in the form of webinars. These vary from advice sessions to recruitment fairs to developmental workshops and are designed to help students prepare for successful careers in their chosen fields.

Reading itself is an important commercial centre in southern England, located in the Thames Valley. Both the town centre and Reading’s multiple business parks, such as Green Park Business Park and Thames Valley Park, host the UK offices of multinational companies. These include Microsoft, Verizon Business, Intel, PepsiCo, and Virgin Media.

The Thames Valley area is a key contributor to the UK’s economy, being the fastest growing region outside of London. It encompasses global companies from a wide range of sectors including digital technology, engineering and manufacturing, life sciences and healthcare, finance, and environment and infrastructure. The University of Reading has strong links with businesses located in the Thames Valley, with internships and placement years available on many of the undergraduate programmes.

BSc Economics alumnus Meera benefited from a placement year during her studies, which helped her secure a rewarding career soon after graduation:

“I was offered a role as part of the Government Economic Service. It was because of this placement that I had the opportunity to apply for a graduate job at the end of my placement – which I was successful in – and I also discovered my passion for the role of economists in government and all the interesting work that I am now able to jump into.”

Jag chose to study BSc Computer Science with Industrial Placement because of the benefits offered by Reading’s links with industry:

“The University is in the middle of the UK's Silicon Valley; a major tech hub. This was a key factor for me. It's a massive advantage to be on the doorstep of so many companies.”

The University of Reading offers its students many advantages and a lot of support, both during their studies and after graduation, helping to make the transition into work a smoother process. Students who progress from OnCampus Reading to a degree at the university will be able to benefit from the same opportunities and guidance. More information on the progression degrees offered to OnCampus Reading students can be found here.