UCC Works offers three Higher Awards to recognize students who stand out in their employment skills development.

These awards include an Employability Star Award, a Global Citizen Award, and a Leadership Award. 

To qualify, a student must have received at least three UCC Works Awards within three of the four pathways over a minimum of two years. They must also exemplify growth in employability skills, global citizenship, or leadership (see below for more details!). 

Employability Star Award

This award was the first Higher Award designed by UCC Works to recognise students who stand out in their employability skills development. These skills are the core of what hiring managers wish to see exemplified in new employees. They are transferable skills including, but not limited to: communication, teamwork, critical thinking and problem solving, self-management, organisation, and, in today's world, technological awareness. 

The student who qualifies for a UCC Works Higher Award and exemplifies growth in employability skills will be awarded the Employability Star Award.

Global Citizen Award

This award was designed to recognise students who stand out in their awareness of their place in the wider world. A global citizen recognises the part they have to play in the ever-growing world community and seeks to add to this community through their actions. This includes sharing values and practices which contribute to equality, fairness, and sustainability.

The student who qualifies for a UCC Works Higher Award and exemplifies global citizenship will be awarded the Global Citizen Award.

Leadership Award

This award was designed to recognise students who stand out in their leadership initiative. Such a person has a way of motivating others towards a common goal with the personality and skills that makes others want to follow their direction. Encouragement towards the success of the group is key for such a leader.

The student who qualifies for a UCC Works Higher Award and exemplified leadership skills will be awarded the Leadership Award.