With vibrant regional hubs and a workforce from every corner of the globe, the UK is a great place to understand how industries operate and what it takes to succeed in the workplace. This programme is ideal if you want to get an edge in launching your career – or if you want an exciting glimpse of professional life in the UK.
This is a pathway of the Westminster Working Cultures (WWC) programme.
Why the UK?
Join fellow students for one immersive week of events and workshops where you'll learn from experts, grow your network, and boost your career prospects to new heights. From agencies and social enterprises to corporate offices and grassroots organisations, you’ll find a huge spectrum of career options – all shaped by a culture of innovation, inclusivity and ambition.
You'll get a unique opportunity to build your confidence, strengthen your soft skills and connect with a diverse group of professionals. You may also discover how your own experience and background fit into the world of work – whether you remain in the UK or go abroad.
Next dates and key information
Each year, you’ll have three chances to take part in a mix of in-person and virtual sessions, with a day trip to a UK city.
The September and April programmes follow the same format and are open to all students.
The June programme is for undergraduates only and includes an additional bursary on completion.
For tips and support on getting selected to join a programme, see 'Application process' below.
September
Programme dates
Monday 8 September – Friday 12 September 2025.
Application window
Applications are now closed.
Key information
- Open to undergraduate students (excluding foundation year)
- Open to postgraduate students
June – undergraduates only
Programme dates
The next date has not yet been confirmed.
Application window
Applications are now closed.
Key information
- Open to undergraduate students (excluding foundation year)
- Includes a £375 bursary funded by Santander Universities UK once you complete
April
Programme dates
Not running in 2025.
Applications
Applications are now closed.
Key information
- Open to undergraduate students (excluding foundation year)
- Open to postgraduate students
See 'About the programme' below for other important information, including which costs are covered. You can also check 'How to apply' below for information on how to improve your chance of selection
WWC UK in photos
Check out what the WWC UK student experience looks like through our Flickr photo album.
What students say
It was great to hear from so many successful and talented people who followed their passion and found their place. I realised that I'm not alone on this journey. I have met so many talented people, who shared their ideas and insights on overcoming their own struggles and accomplishments.
Beatrice Narkeviciute, Psychology and Counselling BSc
About the programme
This programme is designed to grow your understanding of professional environments, your career opportunities and working life in the UK. You'll access valuable advice, visit leading organisations and hear from a range of speakers on their professional journey – all focused on helping you achieve your goals, whatever your background.
Sessions
The week will take place in a mix of locations in London and a day trip to another city in the UK. You'll get a full programme schedule closer to the date.
Sessions will generally run daily from 9am-5pm, with at least two visits or speakers a day – these might be a blend of in-person and virtual.
Sessions will have a strong professional focus and will feature sectors like architecture, media, technology, business, consulting and others. They may take the form of:
- seminars
- workshops
- visiting the workplaces of alumni and partners
- Q&A sessions with alumni of the University
- activities that enhance your understanding and cultural knowledge of the city
Benefits
On the programme, you’ll have the chance to:
- experience working life in the city and gain insight into UK employment culture and industry expectations
- ask professionals the questions that matter to you – from their international career journey to how they built confidence and made the most of their time at university
- connect with students from other courses and explore a city's rich history and culture together
- build your confidence and communication skills by practising networking in a professional international setting
Participation
To get the most out of the programme, we ask that you:
- research speakers and organisations in advance
- aim to ask at least one question each day of the programme
- engage actively in every session (eg take notes, contribute to discussions)
- share your experience via social media, photos, videos or a blog post
- complete the Westminster Working Cultures reflective journal
During the programme, it’s your responsibility to:
- attend both pre-departure briefing sessions - we'll send you dates if you're selected
- respect the programme’s values, other participants, speakers and staff
- be on time and take part in all activities and meetings
- follow the business casual dress code (eg no jeans, crop tops, tracksuits, short skirts or flip-flops)
- don't use mobile phones during sessions unless instructed otherwise
- stay flexible and open-minded – plans may change during the programme
- maintain the highest standards of behaviour while abroad – you'll still be expected to follow the Student Code of Conduct.
- bear in mind that misconduct may result in removal from the programme or disciplinary referral
Costs we cover
These experiences are generously funded by the Quintin Hogg Trust and, in the case of our June programme, Santander Universities UK. This means we'll pay for most of your programme costs including:
- lunch on the days of in-person visits
- day-return tickets to a major UK city
- internal transport at your destination
Costs you'll need to cover
- lunch on virtual days on the programmes
- travel around London
- travel to and from University campuses
Additional rewards
The UK pathway of this programme comes with some extra perks:
- exciting prizes for engaging during virtual sessions
- if you're a June participant, a £375 bursary when you complete the programme.
Travel
You'll be required to travel by train with your group - we'll make the arrangements for this day-return journey.
The programme is subject to normal University risk assessments and regulations, such as those outlined in our fieldwork and offsite working guidance.
You'll be joined by members of University staff who will support you throughout the programme.
We want to ensure fair consideration to all students, including those who have a disability or additional needs.
Disclosing your needs can help us explore adjustments to the application process or overall experience.
Please email us at: [email protected]Email us about Westminster Working Cultures.
Group travel
During the day trip to a UK city, you'll be travelling with a group of other students from various courses and backgrounds. You may not know anyone else on the programme beforehand, but you'll get to know everyone in the pre-departure session and during the programme itself.
While we're unable to create an individually tailored programme, if you prefer a different type of activity, you can view our range of working and studying abroad opportunities.
Photography
By securing your place on the programme, you agree to us using any image that may be taken of you during the programme to promote Westminster Working Cultures initiatives.
The University often uses photographs and videos of people in our educational activities, including Westminster Working Cultures. Potential publications could include the University website, our social media channels, brochures, prospectuses, leaflets, posters and advertisements in local and national media.
Application process
Our programme is full of opportunities to make friends and stand out in your career. As such, we receive a lot of interest, so you'll need to put in a strong application to be selected. Don't worry, you'll find useful tips below.
When applications are open, you'll see the key dates and an application button under 'Next dates'.
To be considered for a place on the programme, you'll need to:
- be a current undergraduate student at the time of the programme (April, June, or September options)
- or be a current postgraduate student at the time of the programme (April or September only)
- complete the online application form by the published deadline – we're unable to accept late applications
- agree to the responsibilities we've listed in 'About the programme'
- be available for the full duration of the programme
WWC speakers come from diverse backgrounds and industries, creating a rich learning environment. You’ll gain insight not only from them but also from fellow students.
We’re committed to securing you an inclusive experience and encourage undergraduate students from all backgrounds and courses to apply.
Here's how our selection panel works:
- Shortlisting is based mainly on the quality of your answers to the motivation questions
- We may consider any other work or study abroad experiences you've had as a Westminster student
- We might consider your academic performance
- We'll let you know the outcome after the application period closes
- We're unable to provide individual feedback if you aren't selected for the programme at this time
The WWC selection panel has the following top tips to help you write a standout application.
Show your personality
We’re not looking for a 'perfect' answer – we’re looking for your voice, your story and motivations.
Avoid generic AI content
If you rely on generative AI to write your answers, your application may blend in with dozens of others and won’t stand out.
Take your time
We'll be able to spot rushed, copy-and-paste answers immediately – this might give the impression that you aren't invested in the programme.
On the other hand, tailoring your application and asking someone to check it for spelling and grammar will show your dedication and help you stand out.
Do your research
Have you researched the destination? You can use what you found to answer questions like:
- How will this experience impact your studies or future career?
- What do you hope to get out of the programme?
Keep it relevant
You have 300 words per question – use them wisely. Be specific and make sure you answer the question we're asking by staying on topic.
Go deeper
If you mention something relevant like a career goal or a skill you want to build, explain why it matters. We want to know specifically which parts of this programme connect to your growth, interests or future plans.
Write at least 100 words
Give us enough detail to understand your motivations. Share your personality and what excites you about the programme.
Just start
If you're unsure how to start, try writing a quick list of your thoughts and organise them by which question they answer. You can flesh out this list by giving examples and specifics.
Ready to apply
As we confirm plans, you'll see key dates under 'Next dates' above, along with an application button.
Contact us
You can email us at [email protected]Email us about Westminster Working Cultures.