Placements

Many of the degree courses in the School of Design, Engineering & Computing (DEC) are Sandwich degrees, which means that the students are required to complete a minimum of 40 weeks (full-time, excluding holiday) in an industrial placement relevant to their degree. The placement is undertaken in the third year of the degree and where possible this should be a paid placement. It can be made up of more than one placement, provided that the student completes a total of 40 weeks.

There are many benefits to completing an industrial placement, and this exciting opportunity gives you the chance to:

Put the skills and knowledge that you have developed through your first two years of study into practice. This will help you to improve your understanding of the key elements of your course and how they translate into industry.
Enhance your career opportunities as you are able to offer future employers industry experience as well as a degree. By having industrial experience on your CV you become far more employable/desirable upon graduation.
Help you to build industry contacts and make an informed decision about your future career. If you are unsure which direction you would like to follow after graduation, the placement often helps you to figure out where your strengths and weaknesses lie and which aspects of your degree you enjoy the most.
Improve the quality of your work before the final year. We often find that students who complete an industrial placement during the third year of the degree are more successful in their final year, because they have a better understanding of industry requirements and have been able to improve upon their existing skills and knowledge.
The School of Design , Engineering & Computing has strong industry links and our students have taken placements in a wide range of companies both in the UK and abroad. These include: IBM, Intel, Dyson, Bosch Lawn & Garden, Tesco Design Team and Microsoft.

You will receive assistance in finding a placement from our dedicated Employability Office, including advice on writing your application and interview techniques. You will be supported throughout the placement experience by staff in the office, as well as by our team of Placement Development Advisors who meet with students during the placement.