University scoops industry award for graduate employability scheme
University of Staffordshire has scooped an industry award for its innovative approach to boosting graduate employability.
The University’s Games Institute has won the ‘Excellence in University/College – Industry Collaboration’ category at the TIGA Games Education Awards.
The award recognises the introduction of industry-led mock interviews to help prepare final year students for their future careers.
It comes after University of Staffordshire was ranked first in the UK and fifth in Europe by GAMEducation which recognises schools with the highest employability, and the top student portfolios in video games education.
Davin Ward, course director for Games Technologies, explained: “We take pride in our innovative and impactful Industry-led mock interviews initiative, designed for our final-year game students specialising in art, design, and programming.
“This annual event has developed to provide our students with invaluable real world experience of the professional interview process, ensuring they are well-prepared and confident to secure employment upon graduation.”
The mock interviews replicate real-world interview conditions and students are rigorously assessed on their experience, projects, and technical knowledge specific to their field.
This year, the University facilitated over 300 mock interviews, supported by 17 companies and 86 experienced developers from the likes of Codemasters, Rebellion and Sumo Digital.
Davin added: “After each interview, students receive detailed feedback on their CV, portfolio, and interview technique.
“This constructive feedback is crucial for their professional development and helps them refine their skills. In many cases, companies have invited successful students to proceed further with their application process, leading to successful placements and job opportunities.”
TIGA is the trade association representing the UK’s video games industry, and these awards recognise outstanding students, education providers and best practice.
University of Staffordshire is also in the running for four awards at next month’s TIGA Games Industry Awards, including ‘Educational Institution’, ‘Social Game’, ‘Education Initiative’, and ‘Commitment to ESG’.
Professor Chris Headleand, Head of University of Staffordshire’s Games Institute, said: “We’re extremely proud to be recognised with this award, as we celebrate 20 years of games at the University.
“The mock interview initiative not only prepares students for the competitive job market but also fosters strong connections between academia and the gaming industry, and our alumni relationships.
“This approach has had great success in bridging the gap between education and employment. We believe that this programme is a testament to the value of industry collaboration, our partners in the sector being well placed to contextualise the students’ studies, and help them prepare for their careers.”
Discover more about University of Staffordshire’s Games Institute or book your place at an Open Day.
