Careers and connections
We have a proven track record of producing highly skilled graduates who’ve gone on to successful roles across the arts and creative industries. To help you become career-ready, you’ll create a professional portfolio. You’ll also develop entrepreneurial skills as you learn about costing, brand marketing and selling your work.
We have a summer internship scheme with agency VCCP, while other students have secured work experience in Bali or with top brands like Porsche and Vivienne Westwood.
You’ll also benefit from our team’s real-world expertise in different creative disciplines. Our staff include professional artists, photographers, animators and illustrators, along with internationally respected designers who have worked with clients like Nike and Sony.
Work placements
Whichever art and design specialism you choose to study at University of Staffordshire, you’ll have the opportunity to undertake a work placement. You’ll gain valuable real-world experience and make industry connections to give you an edge in your future career.
Each course has its own set of industry partners, which can provide exciting opportunities for work placements, ‘live’ industry projects, study visits, competitions and freelance work. These range from Maserati, Next and John Lewis, right through to Wedgwood, Johnsons Tiles and Portmeirion. On some courses, there’s also the option of taking a paid ‘placement year’ to further enhance your employability prospects.
Industry Connections
We work closely with industry figures like the Crafts Council and Chartered Society of Designers, which help make the UK the best place to learn contemporary design and craft.
Our courses are designed to mirror industry practice, with students working alongside leading companies on live briefs, set by companies such as JCB, Westbridge Furniture, Halfords, Michelin, and Evoke Creative - whose client list includes McDonalds, Google and JD Sports.
We also have strong links with the local and regional art scene, who offer exciting opportunities to take part in professional projects and exhibitions each year.