A sharp focus on employability by the University of Bolton is paying off as the latest figures show that 82% of its recent graduates are in employment.
The findings relate to the class of 2020/21 and come from the Higher Education Statistics Agency which runs a comprehensive survey each year.
With The Guardian University Guide 2024 ranking the University of Bolton in 30th place, and The Sunday Times placing it as best in North-West England for teaching quality, student experience and social inclusion, the tides seem to be shifting in the region.
The shift in Bolton Uni’s offering is no accident. It reflects a determination to create a positive learning experience while teaching students how to be employable and develop the skills required to succeed in work.
Julie Bateman, Director of Jobs for Students, said: “The entire Jobs for Students Team has been working hard to support all of our students and graduates.
“Further, the University has invested significantly in employment support. We have strengthened both the employability staff team and the activities that help our students to secure meaningful graduate outcomes.
“Our vision is that any student, irrespective of their background, is able to make informed career decisions and develop graduate skills to secure sustainable graduate employment, business start-up or the further study they want.”
Employability skills and strategies for personal and professional development are built into all of Bolton’s courses with industry advisors playing a part in designing modules or even entire courses to enhance relevance and imbue graduates with the confidence to make a quick start.
Placements or work experience is standard on many of the courses given that practical experience now plays an increasingly vital role in any well-rounded CV.
Many of the courses have practical and simulation facilities, there are law and accountancy clinics that work with the general public and sports rehabilitation and medical clinics complete with a fully equipped ambulance that mirror the real world of work and create better prepared future employees.
Further, there are a number of Enterprise Lab workshops, which focus on idea generation and personal branding together with access to ignition funding to give students every chance at turning a great idea into a runaway success.
