Ethical and values-led careers

Explore a career that aligns with your values and reflects what matters to you.

Your values shape your career. They define what success means to you, what kind of work feels meaningful and the impact you want to make in the world. At UWE Bristol we believe a career isn’t just about getting a job—it’s about finding work that aligns with your ethics, passions and vision for a fulfilling future. 

That’s why we’re committed to supporting values-led career choices. Our Ethical Careers Framework (PDF) sets out how we empower you to explore your options through a critical, ethical lens. 

Recognising your values helps you identify potential concerns, ask better questions and apply with confidence. You can express your motivations more authentically and explain why you and the organisation are a good fit.

UWE Careers is here to help you reflect on what matters, explore your options and find work that feels right. Start your journey today. 

Man and woman in smart-casual dress sit talking animatedly next to a large indoor plant in an airy office space.

Exploring your values, ethics and career goals

Your career journey begins with self-reflection and identifying your values. Take a look at the motivations, preferences and strengths assessment and career values exercises in UWE Careers Toolkit: Developing Self-Awareness.

Values can manifest themselves in different ways at work. Your industry may uphold a set of professional values, your employer may promote a set of values in how they treat employees, clients or partners or your values may be connected to the product or services you work with.

How do you want your values to influence your career?

Try to answer the following questions to help you create a clearer picture of the sectors, types of organisations and roles that might align with your values.

  • What issues or causes are most important to you?
  • What kind of impact do you want to make through your work?
  • How do you define a good employer?
  • What work environments and cultures help you thrive?

To record and articulate your values, try to finish this sentence: 'I believe in... '

More about career self awareness (login required)

Researching employers and jobs that align with your values

Finding employers that match your values requires thoughtful research. Here are some tips to guide your search:

  • Check public information - review news articles, social media and company websites to understand their values and practices. Checking company policies on social value, sustainability and modern slavery can help you understand how they approach their business practices and supply chains. Does the company’s mission align with your values?
  • Find out what employees say about the organisation - use LinkedIn, attend careers events and visit websites such as Glassdoor and RateMyPlacement to hear from current and former employees and their experience of the organisation and culture. 
  • Explore charter marks and certifications look for employers with recognitions that matter to you. This could be B Corp certification, accredited Living wage employers or reviewing commitments to environmental and equality and diversity initiatives. For smaller companies that may not have formal accreditations, focus on exploring their website and asking questions to get a sense of their organisation and culture.

Resources to support your ethical careers research

Ethical careers: next steps

A couple of people talking around a table.

Career development

The Careers Service is here to support you, whatever stage you’re at in your career journey.

Two students using a laptop to study together.

Career Toolkit resources

Career Toolkit resources include advice and support for job applications, researching employers, interviews and choosing a career.

students on work experience placement

Explore work opportunities

Find jobs, placements and volunteering opportunities to gain valuable experience in your chosen industry.

Student on the phone in their home.

Contact the Careers Service

If you have any questions about how to access careers support during your studies, get in touch with our friendly team.

You may also be interested in