For those lucky enough to study in Scotland’s capital, there’s no shortage of opportunities. Whether you’re looking for work, internships, or volunteering programmes, there’s always something available to fill your time. However, those of you approaching the end of your degree programme might be a bit stuck on what to do next. Look no further, because Edinburgh is equally rich in graduate schemes spanning a whole range of disciplines! In this article, I’ve compiled a list of 10 graduate schemes in Edinburgh that are currently running and accepting applicants. Those of you who have job-hunted before know that you often have to send a lot of applications before you’re in with a chance. So why not start with the grad schemes on this list?
1. Accenture
Industry: Professional Services
Salary: Competitive
Accenture is a technology company committed to creating positive change. They offer graduate schemes in consulting, strategy, analytics, and a whole host of other areas relating to IT and engineering. For students studying Computer Science or a related discipline, this is certainly worth looking into.
2. EY Risk
Industry: Accountancy
Salary: Starting from £27,600 per annum
With EY Risk, you’ll be working with clients around the world as you progress towards becoming a chartered accountant. The programme lasts for 2 years, and by the end of it you’ll have a qualification equivalent to a Level 10 apprenticeship. You don’t have to have studied Maths for this – they’ll consider applicants with any background. However, you will need GCSEs in English Language and Maths, three A-Levels and an honours degree to be eligible to apply.
3. KPMG
Industry: Accounting, Tax & Audit
Salary: Competitive
KPMG audits many of the UK’s largest companies, so it’s no wonder that their Graduate Audit Programme is so popular. They also have schemes available in Consulting, Deal Advisory, Tax and Law, and Science and Technology. They provide plenty of information about what they’re looking for, so you should definitely take the time to read through their website before firing off an application. If you do manage to get a place, working at KPMG will give you professional qualifications and the chance to work with clients in 80 different countries.
4. Infographics UK Ltd
Industry: Software Manufacturing
Salary: Competitive
Infographics offers a graduate programme for students of Computer Science or Software Engineering. They’re offering training for the world’s future QA engineers, developers, and coders, with opportunities to work from home and high potential for career progression.
5. Explore Learning
Industry: Education
Salary: £23,000-£25,000 per annum (depending on location)
Explore Learning is a tuition company dedicated to helping children reach their potential. They have been recognised as one of the best companies to work for in the UK, and have been called the best tuition provider in the country. You can start as a part-time tutor before you’ve even finished your degree, and they accept applicants from any degree subject. You could become a Centre Director, perhaps progressing to Regional Manager or a position in the Head Office.
6. FDM
Industry: IT
Salary: Competitive
Offering graduate schemes in Edinburgh and Glasgow, FDM Group recruits graduates in any subject (but preferably STEM). You will learn to write code while working with market-leading clients, and will have the opportunity to gain an MSc in Applied Computer Science. This opportunity is perfect for those with an interest in technology, with good prospects for career progression!
7. Natwest Group
Industry: Banking, HR, and Finance
Salary: £35,000
Those considering going into banking should look into the grad scheme offered by Natwest. They offer training in a variety of different fields, including banking, software engineering, marketing, and human resources. All programmes require a 2:1 degree, although they don’t specify any particular subject. This is one of the better paid grad schemes out there, and applications open on 7 October – save the date!
8. GWG Associates
Industry: Accounting and Finance
Salary: Variable
GWG Associates is a recruitment company specialising in supporting graduates to find their perfect role. If you’re struggling to find a graduate scheme in Edinburgh, this company might be able to help – so far, 84% of applicants have found suitable work through GWG. They also offer advice on CVs and interviews, and it’s by no means limited to graduates – if you’re in your final year and not sure where to go next, they’ll help you find a job suited to your goals and skillset.
9. Shoosmiths
Industry: Law
Salary: £25,000-£26,000 per annum
Shoosmiths offers a two-year training contract for graduates aiming to become solicitors. You don’t have to be a Law student, as they accept students with any degree. You can train in many areas of law, including, but not limited to, commercial, finance, and corporate law. There’s also the potential for flexible working hours. Apart from their Edinburgh office, Shoosmiths also have offices in Leeds and London.
10. Hymans Robertson
Industry: Consultancy
Salary: Competitive
At Hymans Roberston, you’ll be able to join as a trainee consultant under their structured graduate programme. You’ll take exams related to your chosen specialisation to earn professional qualifications, and you’ll also enjoy the benefits of a flexible work schedule. They don’t only offer graduate schemes in Edinburgh, either – there are also offices in London, Birmingham, and Glasgow. Intake opens in October, so make sure you save the date!
So there you have it – 10 excellent graduate schemes in Edinburgh, most of which will start taking applications soon. You might also be interested in Unifresher’s complete guide to internships, or our list of the best graduate schemes in the UK. Hopefully some of the opportunities listed above have inspired you to begin a new career!
