University Service Units

University Service Units (USUs) encourage UK and British Commonwealth students to think about getting more out of their University experience and learn and develop personal skills.

The programme offers the opportunity to develop the following Common Good attributes:

• Active and global citizenship
• Confidence
• Responsible leadership

What’s involved?

University Service Units provide opportunities for those that choose to get more out of university life, to learn and develop teamwork and leadership skills, whether they wish to pursue a career in the services or not. They expose all participating students to a rich variety of branches and professional occupations within the Royal Navy, Army, Royal Air Force and Defence Civil Service. It provides positive experiences based on military training, which will enhance any future employment.

Opportunities to participate in numerous sports and adventurous training pursuits are available to all motivated participants.

Students can join for one to four years and can progress through the USU rank structure to hold positions of greater responsibility, leading and managing their peers. USU service is also paid and provides many students with additional much-needed income as well as fun, safe and challenging experiences.

How will participating in this activity/opportunity allow students to make a positive difference in the communities that we serve?

There is no greater service than those who defend us and keep us safe. The values and standards of the services are taught, encouraged and expected to be demonstrated by participants. Selfless commitment, courage, integrity, loyalty, discipline, respect for others and total professionalism to name a few.

Although participants are non-deployable, they have opportunities to work alongside Regulars and Reserves, participating in local and national community events, including Remembrance and Armed Forces Day as well as broader non-military-based royal and civic events.

USUs work closely with the local city council, the voluntary sector, the business and commercial sector and armed forces charities, as exemplified by the collective signing of the Armed Forces Covenant.

What are the benefits of taking part in this activity/opportunity for participating students?

Transferable skills gained through USU participation, particularly in leadership, team-working, communication and self-organisation, are commonly cited as benefits. USU participation brings something distinctive to the profile of participating students in a competitive graduate recruitment context.

Personal friendships developed through USUs are frequently maintained throughout life. The social aspects of USUs are highly valued by participants.

Another benefit is formal civilian recognition and accreditation, such as ILM (Institute of Leadership and Management) and CMI (Chartered Management Institute) and involvement provides additional assistance, support and motivation to help progress through university studies. You are paid for your involvement.