You have passed your degree – what next?
There are many options open to you. You might have a vocational degree and know what sector you would like to work in or you might still be unclear. You might want to start earning money straightaway, continue your studies or take a break.
Take a look at your options
Employment
Whatever degree you have gained will have given you transferable skills that employers want. Many careers are open to people with any degree subject e.g Management, Finance, IT, Civil Service and more. Some employers also offer graduate training programmes.
Employers recognise that you have developed as a person during your time at university. You will have developed:
- written communication skills
- presentation skills
- as an independent worker
- research skills
- planning and organisation skills, plus many more
Think about what you like and what you are good at. What do you want from your job? Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time? Your first job might just be a stepping stone to get there.
72 % of graduates from Welsh universities are in full time employment 3.5 years after leaving."
HESA, 2018
Self-employment
Maybe you’ve got a great idea or perhaps you like the flexibility that self-employment can offer.
Find out if self-employment could be the option you’ve been looking for Getting into self-employment.
Post-graduate study
Do you want to take your studies further? There are many options open to you.
You might consider a Masters, PhD, postgraduate diploma, professional qualifications. You could study full-time or part-time combining study with employment.
13% of 2015/16 graduates were in further study, training or research."
HECSU, 2018
Ask yourself the following questions:
- Will this qualification improve my employment prospects?
- Have I got the motivation for more study?
- Will I still be able to do the course if I don't receive funding?
- Am I taking another course just to put off making a career decision?
Find out how to Choose your post-graduate course (UCAS)
Find out about Funding for post-graduates (Student Finance Wales)
Voluntary work
You might find that you are missing some of the skills employers want. Perhaps you need communication skills, teamwork, customer service skills.
Voluntary work can be an excellent way of gaining these skills whilst you look for your ideal career path.
Find out more about Volunteering.
Get started
See our list of job sites for graduates. Access graduate recruitment schemes and work experience opportunities.
Internships are a type of work experience for students in university or graduates. They are a great way to gain experience related to your degree.
Help with CVs, application forms, personal statements, interviews, finding jobs, approaching employers and more.
Pros and cons of self employment and where to get further support with setting up a business.
Find the financial support that may be available to you for postgraduate courses at universities, including master's and PhD courses.
See how volunteering can increase your skills, experience and job opportunities at the same time as you help others.