Why the University of Sheffield: Your pathway to a global career
Gaining the right qualifications and experience is key to launching a successful global career in today’s competitive global job market. That journey often begins with the university you choose. So, why University of Sheffield? The University provides students with a blend of academic excellence, career-focused support and an inclusive international community. For international students, the University of Sheffield International College is the ideal starting point for your exciting journey.
A global career starts here: How the University of Sheffield prepares you for success
When planning your future, you want a university that prepares you for the world beyond graduation. That’s exactly what the University of Sheffield does. From tailored guidance on CVs, applications and interviews to advice on graduate careers and further study, you’ll have access to expert support every step of the way.
Students can explore part-time work, gain valuable placements and work experience, and connect with employers through networking events. The University also supports over 350 mentoring partnerships, helping students build confidence and career insights through its mentoring programme. Whether you’re aiming for a local role or an international opportunity, the University of Sheffield provides you with the support to get you there.
There are also subject-specific initiatives designed to give you a real-world edge. For example:
- Sheffield Economics Employability Development (SEED) helps Economics students build professional skills and find relevant opportunities.
- The Finance Society offers mock psychometric tests and sample interview questions to help prepare students for real-world job applications.
- The Investment Society (USIS), home to Europe’s largest student-run investment fund, offers CV workshops and networking with global employers.
This career-first mindset is one reason the University of Sheffield is in the top 20 most targeted UK universities by graduate employers (High Fliers Research 2024). So, if you’re asking “is Sheffield a good university?” – the answer is a clear and confident yes.
Key benefits of studying at the University of Sheffield
There are many reasons “why study in Sheffield?” is a popular question among international students. Let’s explore the key benefits that make the University of Sheffield a top choice:
Tailored pathway programmes
The University of Sheffield International College offers pathway programmes such as the International Foundation Year, Interntional Year One and Pre-Masters, which are designed to help international students like you prepare for a degree in the UK. These courses build academic skills, subject knowledge, and English proficiency, laying a strong foundation for success.
Diverse community
With students from over 150 countries at the University of Sheffield, you’ll join a welcoming and diverse global family. Discover what student life is like – you’ll make lifelong friendships and build international networks.
Excellent facilities
You’ll have access to modern libraries, fully-equipped laboratories, collaborative learning spaces, and the latest technology – everything you need to thrive.
Strong industry links
You’ll benefit from close connections with major employers and opportunities such as internships, placements and real-world projects. These help you gain work experience and stand out to future employers.
Career guidance
From your first day to graduation and beyond, Sheffield provides career support. Visit the University’s career services to see the full range of guidance available.
Award-winning Students’ Union
The University of Sheffield’s Students’ Union has been ranked No.1 in the UK for the seventh year in a row (Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2017-2024). It offers more than 350 clubs and societies, perfect for making new friends and taking part in activities.
Study at the University of Sheffield International College
Your journey to a degree at the University of Sheffield starts with the right preparation. Whether you choose the International Foundation Year, International Year One or Pre-Masters, all the programmes are designed specifically for international students and taught by experienced staff who understand your academic and language needs.
International Foundation Year
The International Foundation Year is a 1.5 or 2-semester programme that prepares you for the first year of an undergraduate degree. You’ll improve your English, build academic knowledge and develop study skills, including essay writing and research.
Choose from two routes:
- Business, Social Sciences and Humanities – Ideal for students interested in business, architecture, law, politics, or media.
- Science and Engineering – For students planning to study engineering, biological, medical and life sciences.
You’ll experience university-style teaching and gain the skills and confidence needed to succeed at undergraduate level.
International Year One
The International Year One is a 2-semester programme that leads directly to the second year of an undergraduate degree. It’s ideal for international students with strong academic backgrounds who are ready to advance quickly.
Choose from:
- Business Management and Accounting – Learn core concepts in business and finance while developing professional skills.
- Economics – Build essential economic knowledge and analytical skills for your future studies.
With small class sizes and personalised support, you’ll feel confident and prepared for the next step in your academic journey.
Pre-Masters Programme
The 1.5 or 2-semester Pre-Masters programme prepares you for a taught postgraduate degree at Sheffield. It’s perfect for students who need to meet entry requirements or build academic confidence.
Choose from:
- Business, Social Sciences and Humanities – Progress to postgraduate degrees in law, management, politics, and more.
- Science and Engineering – For postgraduate study in science, engineering, and technology fields.
You’ll study subject-specific modules, improve your academic English, and develop research and presentation skills to succeed in a master’s environment.
English language preparation
If you need to improve your English before starting your academic pathway programme, you can join an English language preparation course delivered online or on campus depending on the intake date and the pathway programme you aim to study. This programme will help you build confidence and essential language skills.
Learn more about the entry requirements, fees and visa information for your chosen pathway programme at the University of Sheffield International College.
So why University of Sheffield?
As a member of the prestigious Russell Group, a symbol of research excellence and academic excellence, The University of Sheffield is an excellent choice for those wanting to stand out to future employers. The University has produced six Nobel Prize winners and its prestige is further enhanced by its rankings as 15th in the UK and a world top 100 university (QS University Rankings 2026).
The University of Sheffield’s appeal goes beyond academics: it is ranked in the top 10 across all 11 categories in the StudentCrowd Awards 2024 — including standout areas like teaching quality, job prospects and course content.
Stories of success
What’s it really like to study at Sheffield? Let’s hear from students who turned their ambitions into reality:
“In College, the labs were strict in the sense that you had to write everything down… Coming to work, because of all the legal regulations like good manufacturing practice, all the laws that you need to follow, you also need to write everything down, be really neat. Like you need to make sure that whoever reads your process during the test, they need to be able to repeat it. And having the experience from College really helped. I still get the comments of “Your notes are really easy to read.”
Jose from Colombia
Studied International Foundation Year.
Graduated with MEng (Hons) Biomedical Engineering (formerly known as Bioengineering).
Now working as a Development Engineer at Smith+Nephew, UK.
“During my industry placement year with Cummins Inc where I worked as a Product Development Engineer, I used MATLAB and Simulink which was a tool I learnt to love at university. At university, I learnt several programming languages and most importantly problem solving. In my day to day, working as a Software Engineer at Siemens, solving a challenge excites and motivates me so I do tap into my problem-solving skill a lot. Also, my placement year prepared me to get used to the work environment.”
Chisom – Born in Nigeria. Made in Sheffield.
Studied International Foundation Year
Graduated with BEng (Hons) Computer Systems Engineering
Now working as a Software Engineer in R&D at Siemens Mobility
“I dreamed to become a pilot and fly a plane since I was young. So getting a pilot license really makes my dreams come true. My favourite memory from the University of Sheffield is my pilot training during my final year. I still remember when I first flew a plane, the feeling was really amazing. It’s really different to being a passenger in the plane, because I could actually touch the controls and get the planes flying.”
Harald – Born in Hong Kong. Made in Sheffield.
Studied International Foundation Year
Graduated with BEng (Hons) Aerospace Engineering
Now working as an Assistant Satellite Operation Engineer
FAQs
What makes University of Sheffield unique?
The University stands out for its strong focus on employability, equipping students with the skills and industry connections they need for global success.
Is University of Sheffield good for international students?
Absolutely. It offers a welcoming and diverse environment, excellent academic support, and services designed specifically for international students.
What makes a university a Russell Group?
The Russell Group includes 24 leading UK universities recognised for world-class research, high academic standards, and strong employer links.