Published:
An unprecedented number of Heriot-Watt University students and graduates are being offered employment opportunities thanks to an innovative internship scheme.
The Heriot-Watt University Internship Programme, a partnership between the university's Careers and Graduate Futures Service, and Santander Universities, is proving to be an effective route for participants to secure employment whilst providing businesses early access to a thriving talent pool. Now in its fifth year, the initiative has recorded its highest ever employment conversion rate with 80% of those taking part offered a position after successfully completing their internship.
This marks a significant rise on last year when the figure stood at 69%, underlying the widespread appeal of the exceptional skillset offered by Heriot-Watt graduates to industry.
Karen Beattie from Heriot-Watt's Careers and Graduate Futures Service, said: “Our internship programme has gone from strength-to-strength since it was introduced five years ago.
“This year, we have witnessed the highest number of graduate employment opportunities through our internship programme.
“In terms of the number of students placed, we are currently one of the highest performing universities within the Santander Internship programme.”
The hugely popular internships are open to all Heriot-Watt students and graduates with participating employers representing a variety of sectors including IT, engineering, business, and fashion and design.
A total of 15 internships were made available this year with Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SME)
The feedback from employers and graduates alike has been universally supportive of the programme.
Lindsey McArthur, University Relationship Manager for Santander Universities, said: “I have been consistently impressed by the Internship scheme at Heriot Watt University. Not only are the employability statistics for students securing full time graduate jobs some of the highest in the UK across our 85 partners, the students report on a really positive experience that builds confidence, improves career prospects and supports the local economy.”
Since September 2014, Heriot-Watt and Santander have worked together to deliver unique learning experiences that provide students with the relevant insight and skills to help them prosper in today's changing world.
Santander Universities originated in Spain more than 20 years ago when the bank decided to invest in universities and now maintains partnerships with close to 1,200 academic institutions in 20 countries.
Craig McManamon
Communications Officer
T: 0131 451 8099
E: c.mcmanamon@hw.ac.uk