Are you looking for a part-time job alongside your studies? Working part-time can be a great way to earn some extra money, develop your transferrable skills, and gain some valuable work experience for your CV. From finding jobs to application support, here’s everything you need to know.
Where to look for part-time jobs
There are many ways to find part-time jobs, including:
- CareerConnect – your online platform for jobs and careers support, you’ll find lots of part-time vacancies listed here.
- Students’ Union JobShop – find vacancies across Manchester, and for student roles inside the SU, visit the SU Jobs page. You can apply for many of these roles from your first year onwards!
- Check shop windows – busy areas like Fallowfield and Manchester city centre are full of shops, cafes and bars with part-time opportunities.
- Job sites – general job search websites like Indeed are a great place to search for part-time roles, allowing you to filter by location, too.
- Social media – many companies will share opportunities on their social media platforms such as LinkedIn.
Find a full list of recommended websites to search for part-time jobs here.
Help with your applications
As a University of Manchester student, you have access to our Careers Service who can help you find jobs, create great CVs and cover letters, prepare for interviews, and much more. To get started:
- Explore CV templates and FAQs here.
- Utilise on-demand Pathways to get personalised feedback on your CVs and cover letters, and practise for interviews whenever it suits you.
- Book a one-to-one meeting for personalised support.
- Sign up for events and workshops to meet employers and develop your skills.
For more info on how the Careers Service can help with part-time jobs, visit their website here.
Finding a healthy balance
Whilst working part-time can be beneficial, it’s important to find the right balance between work and uni life. Here are some of our top tips:
- It’s usually recommended to work no more than 15 hours per week, but this can vary depending on your course.
- Be open with your employer. A lot of hospitality and retail roles can be flexible around your study commitments and exams.
- Zero-hour contracts have the benefit of allowing you to flex up and down when you need to.
- Make sure to still make time for your social life!
International students
If you’re an international student, most visas allow you to work up to 20 hours per week during term-time, and full-time outside of term. However, some visas can vary, so it’s important to check your specific visa to confirm this.
More info and support
- For more help, visit the Careers Desk 10am-4pm Monday to Friday during term-time in The Atrium, First Floor, University Place, and explore resources on their website here.
- The Students’ Union JobShop also run a dedicated JobClub 10am-12pm on Wednesdays during term-time for support and a dedicated space to complete any applications.