Public sector and government sector
The public sector and government offer diverse and meaningful career paths focused on shaping policy, delivering public services, and improving lives across the UK. From roles in local councils to central government departments, positions such as policy adviser or civil servant allow graduates to influence real-world outcomes. Many organisations offer structured graduate schemes, including the prestigious Civil Service Fast Stream. For students motivated by social impact, long-term stability, and the chance to contribute to national priorities, this sector provides a rewarding and intellectually engaging environment with opportunities to grow and lead.
Policing is one of the most challenging and rewarding careers out there. Every day, officers make a genuine impact and change lives for the better.
West Midlands Police
Explore opportunites and events
Explore a variety of events relevant to students interested in languages, including employer-led sessions, alumni panels, skills workshops, and networking opportunities. These events can help you build confidence, gain insights, and connect with professionals using languages in diverse career
Browse current graduate roles, internships, and placements in public sector, government, and related fields.
Gain work experience
Experience in the public sector helps you understand how policy and services are shaped and delivered. While some graduate roles require prior experience, many students gain insight through internships, volunteering, or part-time roles in local government or non-profits. Taking part in student politics or policy-focused societies can also build relevant skills. Being proactive early on can strengthen your applications for competitive schemes like the Civil Service Fast Stream.
- Volunteer or get involved locally in local councils, community organisations, or charities to gain insight into public service and policy work.
- Gaining general experience of office work is useful, also customer-facing role which can help you develop skills in dealing with the public, resolving issues, and communicating effectively.
- Apply for internships and graduate schemes with government departments and public bodies.
- Engage in student representation and societies by joining student unions, political societies, or advocacy groups to build leadership, communication, and policy skills.
- Attend public sector events and Insight Days exploring careers through employer events, webinars, and open days hosted by government organisations or NGOs.
- Develop relevant skills and knowledge through taking online courses in public policy, governance, or project management, and stay informed on current affairs and public issues.
Explore support and opportunities on our Work Experience and Internships page.
You may be eligible to apply for work experience bursaries through The University of Birmingham. For more details visit the internship funding pages.
Graduate and employer insights
Policing is one of the most challenging and rewarding careers out there. Every day, officers make a genuine impact and change lives for the better - whether that’s protecting our communities, supporting someone in crisis, or standing up for what's right. What makes this role so exciting is its unpredictability. No two days are ever the same. It’s a fast-paced environment, full of variety and opportunities to learn and grow. Students might be surprised by the range of specialist roles available, from digital forensics and youth engagement to detective work and response policing. If you’re searching for purpose, challenge, and the chance to grow both personally and professionally, policing offers all that and more.
West Midlands Police
Many of our graduates from University of Birmingham have gone on to pursue careers in Public Sector and Government, read their stories for inspiration and consider connecting with them on LinkedIn.
Chris McAlister
Joint Honours Economics and Political Science BSc
Assistant Private Secretary to Director General for Culture, Sport and Civil Society at the Department for Digital Culture Media and Sport (Civil Service), and Great Britain athlete (400m hurdles)
Read Chris's Story »
Fini Rubianti
International Relations BA
Trade Negotiator at the Ministry of Trade of the Republic of Indonesia, Directorate General for International Trade Negotiations
Read Fini's Story »
Katrina Sansum
International Development MSc
Research Funding Officer at the British Academy
Read Katrina's Story »
Useful Resources
Careers in the public sector and government offer diverse opportunities to make a difference. We've curated trusted resources with insights, job roles, and development support to help you explore this impactful field.