This evening I have come across with couple of queries regarding the prospects of higher education. This was actually enquired by a prospective student. In this unpredictable market everyone is so confused, the dilemma continues amongst the prospective candidates so much that can only be felt once you actually go through the process. All of a sudden, again I have realised another good point to jot down and anyways I was not actually getting much enthusiasm to keep up the good spirit of writing in my so-called blog. Hence, in this column I will make an attempt of some key points that are very common frequent asked questions, when it comes to make the big decision of life that includes so many risk factors. The points mentioned below are some of the quick facts that were enquired by one of my friend, who has secured the position at Leeds University in International Marketing course.
In order to answer the queries with best of my knowledge, I had to do certain research. In this process, I have actually gained some valuable insight which gives better and clear understanding how the entire process, the transition from University to job market is inter- related.
1. Recognition and market value of this particular course in UK / Europe / India?
Ans: University of Leeds is one of the top reputed Universities within UK. The particular course International Marketing is also a good course with specialisation in Marketing. The course is well recognised and the best part is that it is also approved by Charter Institute of Marketing. Therefore, it is a good course for those who wish to concentrate in marketing domain. In terms of market value, my experience is that, in UK most of the business related degrees are quite widely accepted. Also, please see the link attached which will answer any query about the UK education standard:
http://www.qaa.ac.uk/academicinfrastructure/default.asp
2. Chances of employment in UK, considering the type of VISA (Points Based System (PBS), Tier 4)? Do employers reject students because of their VISA type/status? Do employers help to obtain a work permit?
Ans: It is a very difficult question to have an exact answer on this, and yes type of Visa is always a great concern for the employer especially in higher roles, Graduate Management schemes, because in this sort of job role the initial training is about 2years, so bit of dicey situation there. However, there are still plenty of opportunities to gain experience in your own field. For example Summer Internship which may be extended again to a more permanent role depending on the experience, regular Part time jobs,
So, in reality, Yes type of Visa matters at times, but in majority of the cases it does not matter that much to us, is because initially we all will have 2 years post study work permit + we will be working part time throughout the university time and the best part is that, you will have roughly 3 months in Summer to work full time, and 1 full month in winter. So I feel there are good chances of gaining experience and then off course we all have to make our own way out of it.
http://www.prospects.ac.uk/cms/ShowPage/Home_page/What_do_graduates_do_/Business_and_administrative_studies__overview/p!ebXXXpa
3.Does the credit points of the modules impact in the conversion of a student visa to a work permit? Do employers help to obtain a work permit?
Ans: No it does not, as long as you will have a pass mark. The rule is you will have to have your masters to Post Study work permit, even if it is just pass with 45 %, it is fine.
Because of the new stringent Home office rules changing every now and then, the present trend are that 90% of the employers will not sponsor the candidates unless it is very high skill job role. But again, by that time you will be in a position wherein you can apply for further extension by yourself (3years). The rule is that after post study work permit you can switch over to Highly Skilled Migration Program, but you will have to earn £20000 each yr to qualify. This is quite possible after 1yr of full time experience. At least that should be the spirit. So bit of risk analysis skills will be helpful there.
3.Where are most of your students who pursued this course now working and in what capacity/role/position/designation?
Ans : Perhaps the wrong guy to answer this one, but I had been in the market for a while so according to me again the brand name will have a bit of edge however campus recruitment is not that popular in U.K. There are many job fairs throughout the time at Leeds University wherein representatives from many companies help students to find about the jobs in those respective organisations. Role/ Position/ designation largely depend on individual experience.
http://www.milkround.com/jobs/browse-by-industry
4. Will my 4 years of relevant work experience prior to graduating from the university be taken into consideration by hiring companies?
Indeed, with all due respect. My experience is that it is more to do with how appealing these experiences appear on your CV. I am sure once you settle down you will have a better understanding about this aspect. Not a big deal.
5. On an average, what is the salary that I should expect, when my prior work experience is considered and when it is not?
Ans: During the university term time, as a part timer you may get a salary in between £5.75-- £7.5 per hour. This is the standard salary slab. As a full timer the standard salary is about £1000- £1300 to start with.
http://news.students.efinancialcareers.co.uk/newsArchiveSearchhandler.cfm?subsect=22
