SDG 8 - Teaching
Education plays a vital role in promoting decent work and sustainable economic growth. At Ulster University, teaching equips students with the knowledge, skills and values needed to support fair employment, productivity and inclusive growth across sectors.
Undergraduate Courses
- BSc (Hons) Human Resource Management
- BSc (Hons) Economics
- BSc (Hons) Business Economics
- BSc (Hons) Management
Postgraduate Courses
SDG 8 - Research
Supporting sustainable economic growth requires evidence-based research and collaboration. Ulster University conducts interdisciplinary research that strengthens employment practices, drives innovation and supports responsible business and economic development.
Research Stories
- New EPIC Futures NI research identifies practical steps to help thousands more people in Northern Ireland into fair and inclusive work
- A Focus on Public Sector Transformation in NI
- Professional practice, training, and role development of radiographers in interventional radiology and cardiology: An international survey across Europe
SDG 8 - Partnerships
Achieving decent work and sustainable economic growth depends on strong cross-sector partnerships. At Ulster University, partnerships bring together industry, policymakers, public bodies and communities to support inclusive growth, fair employment and regional economic development.
Partnership Stories
- EPIC Futures NI awards £440,000 to drive fair and inclusive Employment across Northern Ireland
- New Ulster University employer survey highlights gap between graduate use of AI and employer adoption
- Graduate Digital Readiness events connect employers, students and future skills
- Economy Minister visits Ulster University to launch Economic Policy Centre research on skills of the future
SDG 8 - Operations
Operational excellence underpins both sustainable economic growth and fair employment. At Ulster University, our operations foster responsible employment practices, promoting workforce wellbeing, and implementing efficient, inclusive, and economically sustainable processes across the University.
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.
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. Degree apprenticeships enable apprentices to earn while learning, gain valuable practical skills, professional accreditation pathways, and improved employability, boosting workforce productivity and social mobility.
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.
Sustainability Induction for Staff
Sustainability is an integral part of staff induction at Ulster University. Sustainability is actively discussed during the induction process, 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.
Trade Union Representation
Ulster University values the role of trade unions in promoting decent work and protecting employee rights. Staff are represented by recognised unions including UCU, UNISON, and NIPSA, which advocate for fair pay, safe working conditions, job security, and equality. Through regular engagement and formal negotiations, the University ensures staff voices are heard, fostering a fair, inclusive, and supportive workplace in line with its commitment to labour rights and quality employment.
Valuing Voices
Ulster University’s Valuing Voices programme promotes inclusive and responsible employment by actively gathering staff feedback through surveys, focus groups and town-hall events. This feedback shapes policy and practice, supporting wellbeing, professional development, clearer career pathways, and initiatives such as the People Plan. By embedding staff voices in decision-making, the University fosters fair, enriching, and sustainable workplace conditions.
