Boost Your Career with Work Experience at the University of Kent
We’re thrilled to share that the University of Kent has been ranked among the top 35 universities for work experience and placements in the RateMyPlacement Awards, climbing 11 places to 33rd this year! 🎉
This recognition highlights the wide range of opportunities available to Kent students to gain real-world experience, develop key skills, and enhance their employability. Whether you’re already studying at Kent and considering a placement year or you’re thinking about joining us, here’s how we support you in building your future career.
Why Consider a Placement or Work Experience?
Work experience is an invaluable part of university life. It allows you to:
- Apply your academic knowledge in a practical setting
- Gain hands-on experience in your chosen industry
- Build a strong CV and stand out in the job market
- Expand your professional network
- Boost your confidence and develop key workplace skills
Opportunities at Kent for Work Experience
Placement Years & Internships
Many of our degree programs offer optional placement years where you can work full-time in an industry related to your studies. You can also take on shorter internships during your summer break to gain experience without committing to a full year.
Current students: Speak to your academic school or our Careers and Employability team to explore placement options.
Future students: Check if your course offers a placement year to maximize your career prospects.
Find out more about placement years and internships.
Volunteering – Give Back and Gain Skills
Volunteering is a fantastic way to gain experience while making a difference. Whether it’s working with a charity, student-led initiative, or local community project, volunteering builds transferable skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership.
Check out volunteering opportunities through Kent Union and community organisations on our vacancies page.
Become a Student Ambassador
Our Student Ambassadors play a key role in representing Kent at events like Open Days, school visits, and outreach programs. This paid opportunity helps you develop public speaking, leadership, and event management skills while earning extra income.
Apply through the university to become a Student Ambassador or Peer Assisted Learning Leader.
Get Involved in Student Societies & Sports Clubs
Running a student society or sports club is a great way to demonstrate initiative, organization, and teamwork—qualities that employers love. Taking on a committee position in a club or society helps you develop leadership and project management skills.
Current students: Get involved with societies through Kent Union and take on leadership roles.
Future students: Explore the hundreds of clubs and societies when you arrive!
Support from Our Careers and Employability Service
At Kent, we’re committed to helping you succeed. Our Careers and Employability Service offers:
- 1:1 career advice and CV support
- Employability workshops and networking events
- Access to job and placement listings
- Interview preparation and career coaching
Discover how Kent Careers can support you.
Join Kent and Build Your Future
We are so proud of our Careers and Employability team and our incredible placement students who have helped us earn this top ranking. Their success is proof that at Kent, you don’t just earn a degree—you build a future.
If you’re a current student, now is the time to explore your options and make the most of Kent’s work experience opportunities. If you’re a future student, know that Kent is a place where you’ll be supported every step of the way toward your dream career.
Your future starts here. Are you ready? 🚀