What is a placement?

The term ‘Placement’ can refer to a number of different types of work. Depending on the company advertising the opportunity it can range from a one week opportunity, 12-week summer internship or a 12-month placement as just a few examples.

One year placements

A one year placement forms part of a degree programme for a period of between 8-12 months. This year may also be referred to as a: Year-In-Industry, Sandwich Year, Industrial Placement, Professional Experience or Placement Year. A Placement Year will allow you to experience the ‘World of Work’ and gain invaluable work experience before returning to University for the final year of your studies.

Not all courses offer a Placement Year. Permission may be granted by some courses for students to interrupt their studies. Speak with your Course Placement Lead to get advice on the procedure and approval process for interrupting your studies if this is of interest.

International students and placements

Undergraduate students on Tier 4 student Visa are able to apply for placements provided that a placement year (sometimes known as a year in industry) is an option within your programme. You will need to register your interest in doing a placement with your school placement team and inform them if you are successful at obtaining one.

International students normally need to extend their student visa in order to undertake a placement (unless you are already enrolled on a programme that includes the year in industry and have secured the relevant visa). The university are legally obliged to inform UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) of these changes, so it is vitally important that you stay in touch with your school placement team. The University’s Visa team will then support you through any necessary immigration requirements, additional checks and evidence needed regarding your right to work.

Once on placement, the university will keep in touch with your employer to confirm your attendance and the university will continue to sponsor you as a student during this time. Further details on changes to your visa

Find details for your school placement team by asking your student hub, or this via link to the opportunities listed on Work Experiences - My Placement

For information on short placements (internships and work experience) under 8-12 months