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Data / Information management

Jobs in data and information management areas are prolific and there is a strong demand for skilled graduates and students.  Data and ‘big data’ are becoming increasingly important in driving business decisions across all areas of organisations as well as investments.  Many organisations operate their own systems to manage information and many sectors such as finance, healthcare, retail and the public sector are investing heavily in improving data infrastructure.  So a career within this field can offer a broad range of opportunities across a broad variety of sectors since the skills sets are very transferable. 

Graduate schemes, internships, and entry-level jobs are available across the UK, with demand especially high in tech hubs such as London, Manchester, and Edinburgh.  The IT, Data and Tech sector is really thriving in the South West, too, so keep an eye out locally for opportunities here.  You will also find roles across a range of smaller and medium sized businesses which may offer a broader variety of activities for those who prefer to use a range of skills, or who are not ready to specialise yet. 

Many roles are open to graduates from a range of disciplines, particularly those with experience in data-related areas or who have done statistics work.  As with many roles, the increased use of AI to undertake data analysis or gain statistical insights has increased the need for professionals who can manage data ethically and securely.

The following role profiles on the Prospects website will help inform you of the day-to-day responsibilities in graduate level roles and will help inform the kinds of skills, experience and knowledge needed:

You may be interested to watch this recording on Panopto of an University of Exeter alumni panel on ‘Careers in Data and AI’ recorded in January 2025 and this recording from February 2024

If you are interested in these roles, you might also be curious to read about:

Economics and Statistics: similar skills sets but different roles!

Marketing: data is critical in marketing to assess the best returns on investments of channels to enable organisations to reach their target markets.

Insurance: data is crucial in the world of insurance to ensure risk is carefully calculated for insurance companies.  If you enjoy using maths and statistics actuarial work could offer you an amazing career.

Banking and investment: data analysis informs many of the decisions taken about sound investments

Skills employers look for

Data and information management careers require a range of skills since roles vary from technical to focused on communication and governance.

  • AI platforms are increasingly being used to play a role in generating data insights e.g. MS CoPilot
  • Experience with data visualisation platforms e.g. Tableau, Power BI, Visual.ly
  • Maths and statistics skills
  • Proficiency in data analysis tools e.g. Excel, SQL, Python, R
  • Understanding of ethical use of AI
  • Understanding of statistical methodologies
  • Understanding or experience of data protection regulations such as GDPR and the Freedom of information act helps give context to these roles

In order to develop these skills, remember Career Zone also offers a range of Personal and Professional Development sessions which are available to book on Handshake and run at least once per term.  Please also read through the sections about Gaining Experience and Further Study and Professional Development to discover how you can develop your skills through experience and by gaining further knowledge or qualifications. 

Gaining Experience

All experiences ranging from volunteering, active involvement in clubs and societies can help you to develop relevant and transferable skills. You may wish to consider:

Virtual work simulations

This link on The Forage offers various immersive, remote and free of charge work simulations to give you an awareness of Data and Information management.  Plus there is this opportunity also available, not listed with the others: Data analytics with Deloitte

Internships

This page on Prospects.ac.uk lists an impressive series of organisations offering Tech related internships, including in Data and analytics. 

Societies

You might want to consider joining the Guild’s Matlab and Simulink Society on the Exeter campuses to gain valuable skills and insights into data visualisation. 

There isn’t an equivalent society in Cornwall, but you could create one!

 University of Exeter Employability Schemes

Include any relevant Exeter Employability Schemes found here

Career Zone Internship schemes: Internships can be extremely useful, so try and get relevant vacation work or placements

Exeter Award :The Exeter Award will help you stand out from the crowd and give you the confidence to shout about the experiences you've had at university

Speculative applications and where to find opportunities

Undertaking relevant work experience will also allow you to develop new skills and gain a valuable insight into the sector. As jobs and opportunities are not always advertised, it can be useful to develop your networking skills and apply speculatively. Before visiting the sites below you may find it useful to read our Researching employers page.

Finding part time work –

You could also have a look at Handshake, our vacancy database with employers who are targeting University of Exeter students.

Finding advertised graduate roles, placements and internships

Competition can be strong, especially for entry-level positions. Use the following resources to find advertised vacancies and research employers.

Graduate schemes and internships

Recruitment Consultants – there are a wide range of recruiters who advertise IT roles and they often advertise graduate and entry-level positions.  See Agency Central for a list of specialist recruitment agencies and search by sector e.g. IT and Tech. Ensure any recruiters you connect with are members of a professional body such as the Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development or the Recruitment & Employment Confederation. 

For general information about finding graduate opportunities, please visit our Graduate Jobs page.

Placements

If you are interested in finding out more about work placements, you can also access the Work Placements SharePoint via Single Sign-On. This resource covers all aspects of credit-bearing work experiences as part of your degree, including what a placement is, how to apply for them, and bespoke information for international students or those interested in working abroad. 

  • Here is a list of Cyber Security Industrial Placements on offer via Bright Network
  • Companies can offer a Year in industry – it’s worth looking at Prospects here

Further sources of support

If you are an international student, visit our international webpages for help finding opportunities both in the UK and globally.

To find opportunities outside the UK use GoinGlobal.

Further study and professional development

Some individuals decide to undertake further study to build their skills and knowledge of the sector and related occupations. Not all roles or employers will require this, so it is important to research entry requirements and employer preferences before committing to additional training or qualifications. Use the sites below to research your further study options.

Advice

If you are considering postgraduate or doctoral level study before entering your chosen sector, please visit our Postgraduate Study page for more information about choosing further study.

Information and links from professional bodies

If you have studied a related degree, check if your course is accredited by one of the professional bodies. Being a member of a professional body is voluntary; however, it can be valuable for developing networks, continuing your professional development, and generally keeping up to date with what's happening in the sector.  The following professional bodies offer various development courses.  It’s important to check carefully with target employers as to whether these are requirements for roles since they may well be paid for as part of a development package when you start work.