We have recently had a discssuion on our alumni listserv
([log in to unmask]) about the difficulty of getting the first job
after leaving the Masters Degree Museum Studies programs. Certainly, a
number of UK ex-students have been unable to find employment in the first
12-18months after leaving the program, however, our students' overall
success in gaining employment shows the real situation:

The most recent employment survey (1997-2002) looking into the first
destinations of recent graduates found the following: (Response rate for
home students 84%, EU/International students 43%)

Total number graduating = 325

Total number of respondents = 227
In employment = 205 (90%)
Further training or study = 8 (4%)
Not available for employment, training or study = 3 (1%)
Seeking employment or training = 11 (5%)

If those reading this listserv are concerned (rightly) that such programs
should enhance their chances of getting a job, then I hope they are
reassured by the actual results; 95% of graduates from the program seem to
get what they want from the employment/training/study market.

As I said at the beginning, all this applies to UK students. Plainly there
are enhanced difficulties for those from outside the European Union, mainly
the question of work permits. It is worthwhile following Trevor's advice
and pointers on this matter.

Finally, approximately 50% of our students this year are international
(i.e. outside EU) so we believe we have a pretty universal acceptance in
the profession. I hope this is still true.

For more information on the various programs at University of Leicester, go
to www.le.ac.uk/museumstudies. Sorry for the advert, but that's my job.

Look out for coming announcement of The Leicester Study Series for
Professional Development. Early next week!

Jim Roberts
Webmaster
University Of Leicester
Department of Museum Studies

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