Graduate Jobs Cardiff

Cardiff at a glance

If you’re looking to relocate to somewhere a little more coastal, then Cardiff could be the city for you. With a population of just over 350,000 it’s the smallest capital in Europe, but it’s also thriving, being named the UK’s most sociable city. It has a close-knit and vibrant community to take advantage of.

It’s not just the quality of living that Cardiff excels in. With one of the lowest unemployment rates of any city in the UK, job prospects are glowing, housing one of the biggest media and production hubs outside of the M25 (and home of Doctor Who for any Time Lord fans out there), and many more opportunities. So come and see why this Welsh city could be the one for you.   

Area guide to Cardiff

Carfiff is quite a compact city, with everything located in a reasonable walking distance. If, however, you’re looking to get away from the centre and Cardiff Bay area, there are lots of options. Pontcanna is a fashionable and leafy area that is great for young professionals, as is the suburb of Canton. You can also check out some of the newer waterside areas like Victoria Wharf and Prospect Place.

For students, Cathays is the place to be. With over 70% of students living here, you’ll be close to campus, shopping and all the eateries and pubs you could ask for. If you’re looking for something a bit quieter – but still with things going on – then Roath should also be an area to put on your Cardiff student living list.

You’ll be spoilt by the great outdoors here as well, as Cardiff is an extremely green city with 330 parks and gardens spotted around, and loads of castles and historic buildings. You’re also a 20-30 minute drive from the Brecon Beacons – a world famous mountain range. If you’re looking for a change of scenery, the city of Bristol is only an hour away by train.

Universities in Cardiff

There are a number of universities and higher education colleges in Cardiff, including:

• Cardiff University
• Cardiff Metropolitan University
• University of Wales
• University of South Wales
• Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama

Employers in Cardiff

There’s a plethora of opportunities to choose from in the capital of Wales. Some of the biggest employers in Cardiff include Deloitt, Airbus, Ford, Admiral and the BBC. Be sure to keep an eye out for any opportunities coming your way.  

Cardiff by Sector

Being the capital of Wales, this city has opportunities of all kinds. From creative, to leisure and traditional business. Here are some of the frontrunners:

TV & film

Who says you need to be in Hollywood? Cardiff is the epicentre for some of the biggest shows and films around. From being the HQ of Doctor Who, to Pinewood Studio Wales and BBC Wales. Cardiff University is also renowned for its film and television school, and graduates have the opportunity to try out for jobs with big names and smaller independent production companies.

Finance

Cardiff has been one of the fastest-growing centres in the UK for this sector, with it’s own enterprise zone for financial and professional services. With offices from the likes of Deloitte, Legal & General and Lloyds Banking Group, there’s lots to choose from. Cardiff is also home to Admiral insurance group, Wales’s only FTSE 100 company, and Principality, the UK’s sixth largest building society.

Tourism

Cardiff receives over 18 million visitors per year, giving plenty of opportunities for anyone looking to work on the tourism sector. Cardiff Bay is an area under serious revamping, creating loads of new jobs and opportunities in this area.

Cost of Cardiff

Of all the capital cities in the UK you’ll probably get the biggest bargain here, especially for students. On average, rent and bills in Cardiff cost around £537 a month – much cheaper than both Edinburgh and London. Anyone under 21 can also apply for a young person IFF card to get around, which is around £32 per month (if you need it, that is. You may be able to get around on foot as Cardiff is so small!).