BCU students from every subject offered free route into sustainability careers

Birmingham City University students from every subject will be able to get a head start on careers in sustainability this month, through a new free membership scheme run with a regional sustainability network.

The SWM x BCU Student Membership, a partnership between BCU and the regional sustainability network known as SWM, launches in November. It will help students build connections with employers, learn more about careers in sustainability and develop the skills employers are looking for.

Not just for green subjects

Crucially, students do not need to be studying a sustainability-focused course to join. The scheme will be open to students across the university, from engineering, fashion, art and design to business, computing and English.

That reflects a simple truth about the modern jobs market: sustainability is becoming important in almost every profession, from designing products and buildings to running businesses and communicating with customers.

Members will be encouraged to take part in practical activities, build professional networks and find out more about careers where sustainability matters more and more.

"Remove barriers"

Deborah Phelpstead, head of sustainability at BCU, said: "We are committed to giving students opportunities to develop the skills, experience and professional networks they need to succeed beyond university."

She said the scheme would also be "a chance for students to identify how they can support the green agenda through their careers", adding: "By making it free we can remove barriers to skills development and networking, giving all our students a fair and inclusive opportunity to thrive in their careers."

Recognised on their record

Students who take part will have their involvement recognised through the BCU Award platform, an industry-recognised scheme that highlights the professional skills gained during their studies. The initiative has been designed to sit alongside BCU's STEAM strategy, which aims to break down traditional boundaries between science, technology, engineering, arts and maths, and to encourage collaboration and creativity.

The membership will run as a one-year pilot. Feedback from students, BCU staff and employers will then be used to shape the future of the programme.

A growing focus on green skills

The scheme is the second new sustainability initiative from BCU in a matter of days, following the launch of its paid Student Energy Advice Network to tackle fuel poverty. Together they show the university putting climate and energy skills at the centre of how it prepares students for work.

For employers in Birmingham, the scheme offers a pipeline of graduates who understand sustainability, whatever their degree. For students, it is a free way to meet people in the sector and add something distinctive to their CV.

Students can find out more and sign up for the free membership through the network's website and BCU's own channels.