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Coventry University graduate attributes

Our graduate attributes are a set of qualities and skills you can develop during your time studying with us. They are designed to set you apart, so you can be successful in your studies, career and in life.

Developing these attributes should help you to recognise and appreciate your own value, giving you the confidence to:

  • communicate effectively
  • act with integrity
  • adapt your approach
  • think creatively
  • get things done.

Our graduate attributes sit at the heart of your Coventry University experience. You will have opportunities to develop them through your course, as well as extra and co-curricular activities: 

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Practical activity-led sessions

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Our Phoenix+ programme of extra and co-curricular opportunities

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Theoretical and research-based learning

Our graduate attributes

Communicate effectively

What it means:

  • You can collaborate and work well with others, demonstrating empathy, and building effective and open relationships built on trust and mutual respect
  • You can flex how, what, and when you communicate for different purposes and audiences across professional and social environments
  • You have awareness, appreciation, and respect for diversity of background, culture, and thought - encouraging sharing of knowledge, perspectives, and experiences between others.

Associated skills you should develop:

  • You can work well with others in a team
  • You can communicate with clarity and impact
  • You value difference.

Act with integrity

What it means:

  • You take responsibility for your actions and behaviour and have the self-awareness to recognise the impact it has on others and the environment
  • You take pride in your work and your achievements, leading by example
  • You have an awareness of how to act in a professional environment.

Associated skills you should develop:

  • Self-awareness
  • Conscientiousness
  • Professionalism.

Adapt your approach

What it means:

  • You can adapt to change and be aware of the need to be flexible, participating effectively by adjusting your approach depending on the people, environment or situation
  • You keep an open mind and are receptive to new ideas and perspectives of others
  • You are resilient with the ability to self-reflect and react positively to change, challenging situations, or areas of uncertainty.

Associated skills you should develop:

  • Flexibility
  • Open-mindedness
  • Resilience and determination.

Think creatively

What it means:

  • You think dynamically to find creative and innovative solutions to ever-changing challenges of the modern world
  • You embrace an entrepreneurial spirit to lead and drive positive impact and change in both your career and your community
  • You want to continue learning, recognising that personal development is ongoing and life-long.

Associated skills you should develop:

  • Creativity
  • Pro-activeness
  • Curiosity.

Get things done

What it means:

  • You make logical and well-thought-through decisions, showing initiative, imagination, and pro-activity, with an ability to inspire others
  • You apply your subject and professional knowledge and skills in relevant contexts
  • You prioritise and manage your commitments with resourcefulness and focus to deliver on time.

Associated skills you should develop:

  • Problem-solving
  • The ability to apply transferable skills
  • You are goal-orientated and reliable.
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