Student Consultancy Programme: Applications Open Now
Student Consultancy Programme: the student consultant team who worked with Edge of Difference
What is the Career Lab Student Consultancy Programme?
The Career Lab Student Consultancy Programme is an opportunity to gain work experience on a live brief set by a business, public sector body, or community organisation. Most projects are sustainability-focussed or address UN Sustainable Development Goals, and the programme was recently recognised with a Sustainable Careers Award.
When does the programme run, and what does it involve?
The programme will run three times in the 2026-27 academic year (winter, spring and summer).
You will be placed in a multidisciplinary team of students and matched with an organisation. After some initial training sessions, you will work part-for 4 weeks (3 weeks for the Summer Programme), before delivering a team presentation to your client.
You will also receive a bursary equivalent to the UK Real Living Wage, plus guidance on how to showcase the experience on your CV and in interviews.
Do I need to have prior work experience to apply?
Not at all! The Student Consultancy Programme is open to all final-year undergraduates and taught postgraduates, but we especially encourage students with no formal work experience to apply.
“The leap from studying for a degree and working is smoother when students have gained experience working in business [...] this is a brilliant way to gain work experience and skills for working” shared Mo Kanjilal, Founder and Director of Edge of Difference. A diversity, equity and inclusion company, Edge of Difference set a project brief on gender equality in gaming and tech. Their student consultancy team’s research on the issue context and potential solutions contributed to a report for industry professionals – impactful not only for the sector, but also for boosting their CVs!
Why should I take part?
The Student Consultancy Programme is a great way to boost your skills and confidence in a supportive setting.
Charli (Mathematics MMath), who worked on a sustainability-focussed project for Tech Takeback, said: “I applied primarily to gain experience for my CV and LinkedIn, but also to build my confidence [...] as a quite nervous person.” Upon completing the programme, Charli shared: “my communication skills have been boosted” and that “[the experience] really helped me to build my confidence in the workplace.”
“There are so many transferable skills which have been valuable for job applications and interviews I’ve done [since completing the programme]” added Thihanuha (Poverty and Development MA), citing teamwork, research, and critical thinking skills as just some of the skills she strengthened through working on her client’s project.
How do I apply?
The programme is open to final-year undergraduates and taught postgraduates. Applications are open from Tuesday 1 September.
You can apply at any time during the 2026-27 academic year, but there are deadlines if you want to specifically apply for the winter, spring or summer. Learn more about the programme dates and deadlines.
“If you are interested in applying for the Student Consultancy Programme – do it!” encourages Jade (Psychology BSc), who enjoyed working with other students from different academic backgrounds through the programme.
Jade’s tips for applying: “You can select which sectors you’d like to consult for, and you don’t have to choose something related to your degree if you’re looking to explore new areas. The application process is straightforward, yet definitely competitive, so be sure to explain how the programme would benefit your degree, career, and personal goals.”
Learn more about the Student Consultancy Programme and how to apply.
About Career Lab
Career Lab is a programme open to all Sussex taught students. It is a series of opportunities designed to develop your skills, experience, connections and confidence throughout your time at Sussex including the student consultancy programme, summer internships, and digital skills training. Find out more about Career Lab opportunities.