HR graduate schemes

Many large organisations run HR graduate schemes to develop employees who can get the best out of their greatest asset - the workforce

Human resources (HR) offers employees a rewarding and diverse career path. Despite the competitive job market, HR professionals have the chance to work in a range of industries and specialise in areas such as recruitment, employee development, or talent management.

Being able to positively influence individuals' careers, team dynamics, and overall business success makes HR work fulfilling, offering continuous opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Which companies run HR graduate schemes?

Organisations in every sector need HR professionals, from financial services to healthcare, pharmaceuticals and construction. Some examples of HR graduate schemes include:

• Accenture - the two-year Talent Accelerator Programme offers placements in HR areas such as rewards, employee relations and employment law, followed by a three-month rotation working with core HR hub teams.
• Civil Service - giving graduates with at least a 2:2 in any degree subject the opportunity to work within both strategic and operational HR environments. On completion of the three-year Human Resources Fast Stream, you'll have completed a CIPD-accredited professional qualification at Level 7.
• EDF Energy - on the two-year EDF graduate scheme, you'll become a business partner for a power station and experience roles in reward, learning and development and employee relations.
• NatWest - the human resources graduate programme will help graduates with a 2:1 to build confidence in thinking strategically, with a strong focus on diversity and inclusion. The scheme is designed to position you as a leading HR professional.
• NHS - all trainees on the HR graduate management training scheme will become CIPD qualified after completion. HR trainees will also pursue a Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Management through De Montfort University.
• Nestle - you'll rotate through three HR roles over two years on the HR graduate scheme, gaining hands-on experience and benefiting from expert mentorship.

What do HR graduate schemes involve?

Many graduate schemes in HR offer rotational placements across areas such as:

• employee relations
• learning and development
• performance management
• recruitment.

These placements may also include travel to office locations across the UK or overseas.

Some schemes focus on broader business areas, with HR being just one rotation. For example, on the Accenture scheme, your HR experience is sandwiched between three months exploring the business organisation and four months in another business function, such as finance, marketing, communications or payroll.

Before applying, it's important to thoroughly research the specific details of each scheme, as work experience and locations can vary.

Alternatively, you can explore different types of human resources jobs directly.

What are the entry requirements?

In order to apply for a human resources graduate programme, you'll typically need at least a 2:1 degree in any subject. Some companies may accept a 2:2, while others will consider previous work experience and postgraduate qualifications.

You should ideally be flexible regarding your willingness and ability to travel within the UK for the role.

How do I apply?

The HR recruitment process typically involves completing an online application and any associated numerical or psychometric tests. Successful candidates may then be invited to an assessment centre before progressing to a face-to-face interview.

Tailoring your CV to the specific HR role and organisation is crucial. Generic CVs are easily identifiable and can hinder your application. To learn more about the job application process, visit applying for jobs.

Bear in mind that recruitment timelines vary. While some HR graduate programmes accept applications year-round, others have specific deadlines. To increase your chances of success, submit your application as early as possible.

How much will I be paid?

According to Reed.co.uk, those on an HR graduate scheme will earn on average £40,000, which can be enhanced with benefits packages, bonuses and location pay.

The NHS pays £27,701, while The Civil Service's Human Resources Fast Stream pays £31,186 with successful completion leading to salaries between £45,000 and £55,000.

Take a look at the human resources officer job profile for further salary information and to explore what this specific role usually entails.

Will I get a job at the end?

While an offer of employment isn't guaranteed, many companies use graduate schemes as a way of assessing employees before offering them a permanent job upon successful completion. It's important to check with the individual company as to what happens at the end of their particular scheme.

What about recruitment graduate schemes?

Some recruitment consultancies also run training programmes for graduates or encourage newly-qualified graduates with the right personality traits to apply for roles with the agency.

For example, if you're eager to succeed within a high-energy environment, the Reed Graduate Training Scheme develops talented graduates into leaders and senior managers, while allowing them to study towards relevant CIPD or Chartered Management Institute (CMI) qualifications.

Find out more

• See what else is on offer in the recruitment and HR sector.