Internships in Manchester

Internships in Manchester, a vibrant city known for its rich industrial heritage and thriving modern economy, has become a hub for students and graduates seeking valuable internship experiences. With its blend of world-class universities, growing tech sector, financial institutions, and cultural hotspots, internships in Manchester offer diverse and dynamic opportunities for career growth across industries.

Why Manchester is a Premier Destination for Internships

Manchester is home to some of the UK’s largest corporations, start-ups, research institutions, and media houses. With over 100,000 students across major institutions like The University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University, and Salford University, the city is uniquely positioned to support internships in every sector from engineering and technology to media, law, and healthcare.

Internships in Manchester are not just job experiences—they’re career launchpads, offering professional exposure, practical skills, and invaluable networking.

Top Industries Offering Internships in Manchester

1. Technology & Digital Innovation

Manchester is fast becoming known as the “Tech Capital of the North”, with firms like AutoTrader, On the Beach, Booking.com, and IBM offering regular internship placements. Intern roles range from software development and cybersecurity to UX/UI design, data science, and AI research.

Key tech internship employers in Manchester:

  • AutoTrader: Software engineering, data analytics

  • The Hut Group (THG): Ecommerce technology, web development

  • BBC North at MediaCityUK: Tech innovation, digital services

  • KPMG Ignition Manchester: Tech consulting and transformation

2. Finance, Banking & Accounting

With major offices for Barclays, HSBC, PwC, EY, and Deloitte, Manchester is a hotspot for finance internships. These roles often involve financial analysis, audit support, tax consulting, and risk management.

Top finance & accounting internship providers:

  • PwC Manchester: Audit, consulting, and advisory services

  • Deloitte: Corporate finance, risk advisory

  • RBS/NatWest Group: Summer banking internships

  • AJ Bell: Investment management

3. Creative, Media & Marketing

Manchester has a strong media presence with ITV, BBC, and Channel 4 operations in the city. Combine this with vibrant marketing and PR agencies, and you have abundant opportunities for media internships.

In-demand media internship areas:

  • Content writing

  • Social media marketing

  • Graphic design

  • TV & radio production

Notable creative internship hosts:

  • BBC MediaCityUK: Journalism, digital media

  • ITV Studios: Production and editing

  • McCann Manchester: Advertising and PR

  • Love Sugar Science: Influencer and digital marketing

4. Healthcare & Life Sciences

Manchester is at the forefront of biomedical research, public health, and clinical trials. With institutions like Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust and Manchester Science Park, students can find valuable internships in medical research, healthcare technology, and public health initiatives.

Leading healthcare internship hosts:

  • Christie NHS Foundation Trust

  • Manchester Biomedical Research Centre

  • AstraZeneca (nearby Macclesfield campus)

  • Manchester Science Partnerships

5. Engineering & Manufacturing

The Greater Manchester area is a base for engineering companies involved in aerospace, mechanical, and civil engineering. Firms like Rolls-Royce, Siemens, and Airbus have a presence or partnerships in the region.

Engineering internship specialties:

  • Mechanical engineering

  • Civil and structural engineering

  • Electronics and systems

  • Green and renewable energy

6. Legal & Government Internships

Legal internships in Manchester span across solicitor firms, barrister chambers, and corporate legal departments. The Greater Manchester Combined Authority, along with government departments, offers public policy, urban planning, and social services internships.

Top legal internship providers:

  • DLA Piper

  • Eversheds Sutherland

  • Shoosmiths LLP

  • Manchester City Council – Legal Services Division

Types of Internships Available in Manchester

Summer Internships

These are typically 6–12-week programs running from June to August. They are ideal for undergraduates looking for real-world experience during academic breaks.

Part-Time Internships

Designed to fit alongside university schedules, these internships offer flexibility and ongoing learning throughout the semester.

Placement Year Internships

Usually integrated into degree programs (especially for students in engineering, business, or computing), placement years provide full-time experience for 9–12 months.

Remote Internships

Post-COVID, many employers offer hybrid or remote internships, especially in IT, marketing, and consulting roles.

How to Apply for Internships in Manchester

1. University Career Portals

Universities like the University of Manchester and Manchester Met have active portals offering curated internship opportunities, CV help, and interview prep.

2. Internship Portals & Job Boards

Popular platforms include:

  • RateMyPlacement

  • TargetJobs

  • Indeed Manchester

  • Prospects UK

  • LinkedIn Jobs

3. Company Career Pages

Directly visit the careers section of target companies. Many open internship roles 6–12 months in advance.

4. Recruitment Agencies

Firms such as Graduate Recruitment Bureau (GRB) and Hays specialize in placing students and graduates in internships across Greater Manchester.

Tips to Secure the Best Internships in Manchester

  • Tailor your CV and cover letter for each application.

  • Highlight academic projects, volunteering, or part-time jobs.

  • Prepare for competency-based interviews (a common format in the UK).

  • Join networking events, career fairs, and professional societies.

  • Start early. Applications for summer internships often open in autumn or winter of the preceding year.

Cost of Living & Intern Life in Manchester

While London is known for its high costs, Manchester offers a more affordable lifestyle with just as many opportunities. Expect monthly living expenses to range from £700–£1,200, depending on accommodation and lifestyle. Many internships come with stipends, and some companies offer relocation support or accommodation assistance.

Manchester also offers a vibrant social scene, with events, music, sports, and nightlife that complement a professional internship experience.

Conclusion: Take the Leap Toward Your Future

Securing an internship in Manchester means gaining a competitive edge, learning from industry leaders, and building a strong professional network. Whether you’re looking for experience in technology, finance, media, healthcare, or law, Manchester offers some of the best internships in the UK.

Apply early, stay proactive, and embrace the opportunities that Manchester brings. Your career starts here.

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