Graduate programmes

Graduate programmes, sometimes known as graduate schemes or graduate training schemes, are structured training programmes offered by many large employers. They typically last at least a year; some last 18 months, while others extend to two or three years.

Benefits of opting for a graduate programme over other entry-level jobs include:

• structured training and inductions to help you adapt quickly to a professional work environment
• Plenty of opportunities to complete further professional qualifications
• Joining at the same time as a number of other graduates enables you to network and socialise with your peers who are in the same position as you

Due to the competitive nature of graduate programmes, you will usually require at least a 2.1 (upper second-class honours) to gain a place on a graduate programme. However, some graduate employers will accept a 2.2 (lower second-class honours) if you exhibit the desired skills. 

For graduate roles that recruit annually to start the following autumn, the best time to apply is generally the autumn of your final year, though some roles are advertised year round and sometimes employers extend the deadline or reopen applications at a later date.