UQ provides varied experience opportunities for you to apply your academic knowledge and learn important workplace skills. Take advantage of the below programs to build your industry connections and professional profile.

BEL Student Work Experience Program

The Student Work Experience Program (SWEP) lets you participate in a competitive recruitment process, similar to those used in the open job market. You may also qualify for a chance to complete an entry-level work experience placement during the semester break. Be sure not to miss the application deadline at the beginning of each semester.

BEL Work-integrated Learning

Work-integrated learning (WIL) courses let you gain degree-relevant industry experience in your final year for academic credit. WIL placement or industry consultancy projects integrate academic theory with workplace practice, underpinned by purposeful employability learning. There are several WIL courses available in the BEL Faculty. 

Online jobs boards

To find work experience opportunities, internships or jobs, start by regularly checking UQ StudentHub or UQ Careers Directory, as well Seek and other well-known commercial jobs platforms.

Make sure to like the BEL Careers and Employability Facebook page to stay up to date with the latest employability announcements.

Opportunities for law students 

Law students seeking legal experience can join the Pro Bono roster, get involved in mooting or apply to do a legal clinic. Legal clinics are your opportunity for work-integrated learning, i.e., working in a social justice setting for academic credit. All these legal experiences require in-person attendance. The ODPP Work Experience Placement Program offers four-week, full-time placements for students with a genuine interest in criminal law.

Virtual internships

Access a wide range of virtual experience opportunities through the UQ Forage portal to build skills you can include on your resume. Short, free online internships with leading companies from around the globe provide you a taste of working in a particular role to help you decide which career path is really for you.

Volunteering

Volunteering is an ideal way to build your skills and extend your professional and personal network while contributing to a worthy cause in the community. You can sign up for UQ-wide volunteering opportunities or to become a BEL Buddy volunteer or mentor.

Global experiences

UQ offers a broad range of overseas study and international experience programs. They not only present unique learning experiences but are also an opportunity to distinguish yourself to future employers. Check your school’s webpages for current opportunities and programs, as well as UQ's Global Experience page.