Once you’ve started your course, it’s natural to begin thinking about what comes next – whether that’s graduate employment, further study, or something else. If you’re wondering how your disability or condition might factor into those plans, your university careers service is a great place to start.
You don’t need to have it all figured out. Careers advisers are there to help you explore your options, build your confidence, and identify opportunities that work for you. From discussing accessible pathways and identifying inclusive employers to practical aspects such as CVs, applications, interview preparation, and work experience, they’ll support you in shaping a future that aligns with your interests and strengths.
Many universities now embed employability throughout the student experience and curriculum. They also offer a range of disability initiatives and programmes, such as careers-focused workshops, mentoring schemes, and regular employer engagement with disabled students.
If you’re unsure whether, when, or how to talk about your disability with an employer, careers professionals can offer a safe and impartial space to think it through and guidance on your disability employment rights. You can discuss your options, explore the potential benefits and challenges, and decide what feels right for you.
Careers advisers can also point you towards programmes and resources designed to support disabled students, such as Change 100, My Plus Students’ Club and funding options like Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) and Access to Work.
Engaging with your careers service isn’t just about getting a job – it’s about growing in confidence and making informed decisions about what you want from your future.
Thinking about your longer-term plans
Thinking about your future career can be both exciting and daunting, especially if you’re unsure about how your disability or condition might impact your choices. However, you’re not alone on this journey and there are many sources of advice you can turn to whilst at university.
Getting early careers advice can make a big difference. Your university's careers and employability service can help you explore different options that align with your strengths and interests, understand your rights around disability in the workplace, and connect you with disability confident employers. The earlier you start these conversations, the more confident you’ll feel about your next steps, including how to present your strengths and achievements to potential employers on your CV, applications, and at interviews.
There are also many networks and charities dedicated to supporting disabled students in their career journeys. Organisations such as EmployAbility, Leonard Cheshire and Evenbreak, for example, offer resources, mentoring, and advice on navigating the workplace with a disability. They also provide access to paid internships and graduate programmes.
Charities with a specific focus, such as the RNIB or RNID, offer tailored advice on employment and your rights. Networks and charities like these can provide valuable insights and connect you with professionals who have faced similar challenges.
Remember that most careers can be made accessible with reasonable adjustments. Whether it’s flexible working, assistive technology or adapted recruitment processes, there are more options available than you might expect. Don't discount a career pathway just because it may seem challenging at first glance. Stay positive and seek out the advice and guidance you need to succeed.
If you are thinking about higher education or apprenticeships, check the UCAS guide for disabled students.
If you are a careers adviser supporting disabled young people to consider their next steps, take a look at our guide for career advisers supporting SEND and disabled young people – co-developed by UCAS and The Graduate Futures Institute.
The Graduate Futures Institute is the community for all who contribute to careers and employability in higher education. Through our 150+ member universities we are shaping graduate futures, together.