The University of Leeds isn't just about world-class academics—it's about shaping your future career. Leeds is ranked among the UK's top universities for graduate employability, with thousands of students benefiting from internships, placements, and career development programs each year.
In this guide, we'll explore how Leeds prepares students for the job market, from career services and internships to graduate outcomes and alumni success.
👉 Start early! Visit the Careers Centre from Year 1 to maximize your career opportunities.
Complete Leeds Career Services Guide
Complete Leeds Career Services Guide
🎓 Why Career Prospects at Leeds Stand Out
- Dedicated Careers Centre offering year-round support
- Ranked Top 10 in the UK for employer reputation (QS 2025)
- Strong industry links with companies in finance, engineering, healthcare, and technology
- High graduate employment rate within 6 months of graduation
📊 University of Leeds Employability Rankings
💡 "95% of Leeds graduates are in work or further study within 15 months (Graduate Outcomes Survey)."
| Ranking System | Position | Year |
|---|---|---|
| QS Graduate Employability Rankings | Top 70 worldwide | 2025 |
| Times Higher Education Global Employability | Top 120 | 2025 |
🏢 Leeds Careers Centre – Student Career Support
The Careers Centre provides comprehensive support to help students succeed in their career journey:
- One-to-one career guidance appointments
- CV and cover letter reviews
- Mock interviews and assessment centre practice
- Access to thousands of job postings via MyCareer online platform
- Employer networking events and career fairs held throughout the year
💼 Internships, Placements & Work Experience
- Year in Industry programs – many courses at Leeds offer an optional 12-month placement
- Summer internships with local, national, and global companies
- Volunteering opportunities through Leeds University Union
- Support for finding part-time jobs during study
👉 "Example: Engineering students often secure placements with Rolls-Royce, Siemens, and Arup. Business students intern with PwC, Deloitte, and HSBC."
🌍 International Student Career Support
The University of Leeds Careers Centre offers tailored support for international students:
- Visa and work regulation guidance
- Workshops on UK-style CVs and job applications
- Employer events focused on recruiting international graduates
- Global job search resources
🧑🎓 Graduate Outcomes – Where Do Leeds Graduates Work?
Leeds graduates are highly employable across multiple industries:
| Sector | Typical Employers | Roles |
|---|---|---|
| Finance & Business | PwC, Deloitte, HSBC, KPMG | Analyst, Consultant, Accountant |
| Engineering | Rolls-Royce, Siemens, Arup, BAE Systems | Engineer, Project Manager |
| Healthcare | NHS, GSK, AstraZeneca | Doctor, Nurse, Research Scientist |
| IT & Digital | IBM, Accenture, Microsoft | Software Developer, Data Analyst |
| Media & Arts | BBC, Channel 4, Publishing Houses | Journalist, Producer, Designer |
🏛️ Faculty-Specific Career Strengths
Business
- Leeds University Business School graduates enjoy 95% employability rates
- Careers in finance, consultancy, marketing, and entrepreneurship
Engineering & Physical Sciences
- Strong demand for engineers worldwide
- Leeds engineering graduates often secure chartered engineer status
Medicine & Health
- NHS placements lead to strong job offers post-graduation
- Healthcare students have near 100% employment rates
Arts, Humanities & Cultures
- Careers in teaching, media, writing, cultural management
- Graduates benefit from Leeds' thriving arts scene
Social Sciences & Law
- High demand for law, politics, and international relations graduates
- Many pursue postgraduate legal training or public sector careers
🤝 Industry Links & Employer Partnerships
The University collaborates with top global employers:
- Annual Leeds Careers Fair with 300+ recruiters
- Partnerships with IBM, PwC, NHS, BBC, Rolls-Royce, Microsoft
- Research collaborations with industry leaders
🚀 Leeds Alumni Success Stories
🌟 "Mark Knopfler (Dire Straits) – Music graduate turned global rock star."
🚀 "Piers Sellers – NASA astronaut and climate scientist."
💼 "Thousands of alumni in leadership roles across finance, law, healthcare, and tech."
🚀 "Piers Sellers – NASA astronaut and climate scientist."
💼 "Thousands of alumni in leadership roles across finance, law, healthcare, and tech."
📈 Average Graduate Salaries (2025)
| Field | Starting Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Business & Management | £28,000 – £35,000 |
| Engineering | £30,000 – £38,000 |
| IT & Computer Science | £27,000 – £34,000 |
| Law | £26,000 – £32,000 |
| Medicine & Healthcare | £32,000 – £45,000 |
| Arts & Humanities | £22,000 – £28,000 |
📝 CV, Interview & Job Application Support
Leeds helps students succeed in competitive applications by providing:
- Professional CV and LinkedIn workshops
- Mock interviews with real employers
- Assessment centre training
- Networking sessions with alumni
💡 Tips for Maximising Career Success at Leeds
- Start early—visit the Careers Centre from Year 1
- Attend career fairs and build networks
- Apply for summer internships before final year
- Use LinkedIn and the Leeds alumni network
- Gain volunteering and society leadership experience
👉 Pro Tip: The combination of Leeds' academic excellence, industry connections, and comprehensive career support creates exceptional opportunities for graduate success.
FAQs About University of Leeds Career Opportunities
What is the graduate employment rate at Leeds?
95% of Leeds graduates are in work or further study within 15 months.
Does the University of Leeds guarantee internships?
No, but the Careers Centre provides extensive support and opportunities.
What are the top sectors for Leeds graduates?
Finance, engineering, healthcare, IT, and law are the strongest.
Can international students work in the UK after graduation?
Yes, under the Graduate Route Visa, international students can work in the UK for 2 years after finishing their degree.
Are Leeds Business School graduates employable worldwide?
Yes, the Business School is triple-accredited and highly respected globally.
🎯 Conclusion
The University of Leeds in 2025 is not just a place to study—it's a launchpad for successful careers. With strong employer partnerships, high graduate employment rates, and comprehensive career services, Leeds equips students with the skills, experience, and confidence to thrive in the global job market.