A work placement is an entirely optional part of your studies. In most cases you’ll be placed with a company or organisation for between six and 12 months before returning for your final year of study. This will give you the opportunity to apply the knowledge you’ve learned and skills you’ve gained within a professional environment.
The term ‘work placement’ can have varying titles depending on the course. These include:
- internship
- industrial placement
- clinical experience
- advanced practice
They can help you to build academic expertise as well as to gain real-world experience. You will receive academic credit for your efforts, and learn the extra transferable skills needed to excel in your chosen career. It will increase their self-confidence, encourage reflective practice and develop the transferable skills that employers are looking for.
All students pay a reduced tuition fee for their placement year and are encouraged to take up a paid placement if they can. Some universities do not even charge any additional fee for it. Salaries for such placements vary but you could earn from £12,000 to £20,000 for a full year in industry.
There are many ways in which a work placement can help you make the most of your degree.
- Improve practical skills
- Gain employability skills
- Strive for better grades
- Choose your career path
- Expand professional network
- A new experience as an international student
