Driving Economic Growth through Research and Skills Development at Ulster
At Ulster we are passionate about contributing to economic growth. Our research seeks to identify where there’s a skills shortage in NI, and to address these needs through education, training and development. Skills mismatches and shortages erode competitiveness and constrain labour productivity. Our research seeks to identify future skill requirements to address misalignments and ultimately enhance economic growth.
Job Posting Policy
Ulster University is committed to supporting ethical career pathways for its students and graduates. Our Job Posting Policy ensures that all employment opportunities shared through University platforms align with our institutional values.
This policy reinforces our dedication to responsible partnerships and preparing students for careers that contribute positively to society and the environment.
Expert Careers Advice
Ulster University’s Employability & Graduate Futures expert coaching and advice service empowers students and graduates to explore meaningful career paths that align with their skills, values, and ambitions.
Offering one-to-one guidance, skills workshops, employer events, and placement support, the service helps students navigate an evolving job market with confidence. Our services are delivered entirely in-house, we do not engage with third-party providers.
Living Wage Accreditation
Ulster University is an accredited Living Wage Employer by the Living Wage Foundation, demonstrating our commitment to fair and equitable pay for all staff. This accreditation reflects our dedication to supporting a sustainable and inclusive workplace where employees receive wages that meet or exceed national standards, helping to improve wellbeing and reduce financial stress. Upholding fair pay is a key part of our broader commitment to social responsibility and ethical employment practices.
New Colleague Induction
Ulster University offers a structured and supportive New Colleague Induction programme designed to help new staff. It includes a three‑stage onboarding journey which involves meeting the team, online compliance learning, and attending networking events.
New hires are also invited to a welcome session hosted by the Vice‑Chancellor, offering insight into the university’s strategy, values, and community connections. A tailored 90‑day development plan, regular one‑to‑one check‑ins, and access to tools such as the Line Manager Toolkit and teaching resources ensure ongoing support, integration, and professional growth.
Sustainability is an integral part of staff induction at Ulster University. Sustainability is actively discussed during the induction event, ensuring all staff understand their role in supporting the University’s commitment to sustainability. New employees are introduced to our sustainability values and initiatives through dedicated resources on SharePoint, providing easy access to key policies and information.
Industry Placements
Ulster University encourages and supports placement years as an integral component of many undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. These placements connect students with local and international employers. Students report growth in professional confidence, development of practical industry skills, and enhancement of their CVs, leading to a smoother transition into the workforce.
Degree Apprenticeships
As Northern Ireland’s leading provider with over 700 apprentices across partnered sectors, Ulster University works closely with over 170 employers to blend on‑the‑job training with accredited academic study.
These programmes enable apprentices to earn while learning, gain valuable practical skills, professional accreditation pathways, and improved employability, boosting workforce productivity and social mobility.
This demonstrates the University’s commitment to high‑skilled work, career progression, equitable access to quality jobs, lifelong learning, and strengthening sustainable economic development.
Valuing Voices
Ulster University’s Valuing Voices programme champions inclusive and responsible employment by actively listening to staff through pulse surveys, focus groups, and town‑hall events, ensuring their perspectives genuinely shape university policy and practice. This feedback-driven framework supports staff wellbeing and professional development.
Recent outcomes include revamped organisational charts to reflect clearer career pathways, enhancements to research governance and engagement, and creation of the People Plan, targeting areas such as work-life balance, equality, and investing in people.
By embedding staff voices in decision-making and recognising their contributions, the University fosters fair, enriching, and sustainable workplace conditions, reinforcing its commitment to economic growth and quality employment.
Trade Union Representation
Ulster University recognises and supports the role of trade unions in promoting decent work and safeguarding employee rights. Staff are represented by recognised trade unions including UCU, UNISON, and NIPSA, which advocate for fair pay, safe working conditions, job security, and equality in the workplace.
Through regular engagement and formal negotiation structures, the University ensures that staff voices are heard and respected, helping to maintain a fair, inclusive, and supportive working environment. This reflects Ulster's commitment to promoting labour rights and safe, secure working conditions for all.
Building Fair Workforces
Ulster University offers programmes designed to develop strategic people management, workforce planning, and equality-inclusive skills. Courses feature modules in HR analytics, organisational development, strategic talent management, and employment relations, all equipping students to drive decent work, enhance workforce productivity, and foster fair work environments.
Just Transition in Northern Ireland
Ulster University, in collaboration with Queen's University Belfast, developed a policy brief through the ARK initiative, exploring pathways to a Just Transition in Northern Ireland.
This research, based on a roundtable with 20 stakeholders from various sectors, emphasised the importance of creating fair and inclusive job opportunities as a core element of achieving net-zero emissions. Key recommendations include empowering the Just Transition Commission to ensure new green jobs support local communities, enhancing coordination across government departments, and integrating climate policies with social goals such as reducing fuel poverty and promoting rural development.
The brief highlights the critical role of universities and civil society in driving social innovation and ensuring that economic transitions generate decent, sustainable employment for all.
Inaugural North West Digital Futures Conference launched
