The Degree Show Awards is a highlight of the year, genuinely celebrating some of the best of the University’s creative community. It’s designed not just to recognise talent, but to spotlight the imagination, dedication and ambition of our final‑year students as they step towards life in the creative industries.
Each course team selects one standout student whose work represents the spirit and strength of their discipline. Being chosen is already a meaningful achievement - it signals that a student’s voice, craft and creative direction have truly resonated with their tutors. All nominees then go forward to be considered for six industry‑sponsored awards, each supported by organisations who care deeply about nurturing emerging talent.
Representatives from these organisations spend a full day meeting the nominated students, exploring their final projects and getting to know the ideas behind the work. From these conversations, the judging panel decides who will receive each award. What makes this event especially powerful is that every sponsor also offers their winner a real, tangible opportunity to help them take their first steps into the industry - whether that’s a paid freelance brief, mentoring, job shadowing, a training opportunity, an interview, or something tailored to the student’s creative strengths. These opportunities evolve each year as sponsors respond to the unique skillsets of the winners.
Being nominated is something to be proud of. It reflects talent, hard work and the respect of the academic team. We celebrate every student recognised this year, and we extend warm thanks to our generous and supportive sponsors who make these opportunities possible.
Award categories, sponsors and judges:
