Make the most of your UAL degree

Close up shot of moulded shapes in a variety of pastel colours
Alice Ryan, 2022 BA (Hons) Fashion Design Technology: Menswear, London College of Fashion, UAL | Photograph: Alice Ryan
Written by
Creative Opportunities
Published date
07 May 2025

Your time at UAL is more than just lectures and projects—it’s a launchpad for your creative career. Whether you’re still studying or have just graduated, there are so many ways to boost your skills, network, and opportunities. Here’s how to get the most out of your UAL experience.

  1. Go to our careers fair and degree shows

Don’t miss the chance to connect with industry leaders at UAL’s annual careers fair—it’s the perfect place to meet employers, ask questions, and even land your next opportunity. Check out Careers and Employability Fair for details.

And while you’re at it, explore our degree shows to see what your peers are creating—you might find inspiration, collaborators, or even future clients! Visit UAL Showcase to find out more.

  1. Plan your career early

Why wait until graduation? UAL’s Career Services are free for students and graduates (for up to 5 years!). From CV workshops to industry panels, we’ve got your back.

  • Sign up for the newsletter – Get monthly updates on jobs, funding, competitions and events. Sign up now!
  • Book a one-to-one session – Get personalised career advice.
  • Attend workshops – Learn everything from freelancing to networking. Check out our events and workshops.
  1. Turn your summer into a career boost

Summer breaks are the perfect time to gain real-world experience. Apply for Creative Business Internships—paid roles at businesses founded by UAL grads. It’s a great way to build your portfolio while getting paid.

Graduating soon and have a business you’ve been developing? Then you can apply for the Creative Business Accelerator programme which offers workshops, tailored support from industry professionals, mentoring, peer coaching, and a participation bursary to graduates up to five years after they finish their degree.

  1. Think global—work or study abroad

Want to take your creativity worldwide? UAL’s Creative Opportunities job board lists roles across the globe—including exciting placements like a Graduate Management Trainee in Dubai! If you’d like to study abroad, we also offer funding to help you make it happen. Check out study abroad funding.

Your UAL degree is just the beginning. With the right opportunities, connections, and support, you can turn your creativity into a thriving career.

If you are looking for opportunities to gain experience to start your career, why not check outCreative Opportunities? Run byCareers and Employability, it is the go-to hub for creative students and graduates. You can find jobs, paid internships, competitions, and volunteering roles. If you are studying an art, design, communications, or a performance course or have recently graduated, then this is the place for you! Our goal is to help you achieve your ambitions and make a living doing what you love.