Why employers value postgraduate research graduates
Your research journey doesn’t end with your degree - it’s just the beginning. A postgraduate research qualification from Newcastle equips you with the insight, skills, and confidence to thrive in diverse and rewarding careers.
Opening the door to your future
Doing a research degree opens the door to many exciting and rewarding careers.
It’s an essential step to take if you want to work in academia, but a research degree can also take you in lots of other directions.
Employers across a wide range of industries actively seek out postgraduate research graduates. They value the expertise and high-level skills you'll have gained during your time at Newcastle. These include your experience in leadership, project management, and critical thinking.
Where could your degree take you?
Our research graduates have a strong track record of career success. They go on to work in many sectors, including:
- academia - research, teaching and other professional roles in higher education
- commercial research
- creative economy
- finance, business, and technology
- industry and manufacturing
- public sector - including health, government and regulatory/policy-making bodies
- third sector - including charities and non-governmental organisations
From researcher to leader
Through our Faculty Research Development Programmes, you’ll also gain access to tailored workshops and activities designed to help you:
- strengthen your research capabilities
- build transferable skills and confidence
- enhance your career prospects across academia and beyond
- communicate your value to potential employers
Whether you're aiming for a future in academia, industry, or the public sector, these programmes are built to support your personal and professional growth - flexible enough to adapt to your evolving goals.
Our Careers Service is here to help you succeed
As a student at Newcastle, you’ll have access to expert careers advice and services, from day one of your study, and for three years after you graduate.
Students undertaking a PhD have a dedicated careers consultant for their faculty who can offer one-to-one support.
You’ll also have access to our ‘Careers for Researchers’ online course, and tailored workshops and events covering everything from transitioning into industry or academia, to launching your own business.
