Placement Opportunities at Leeds Beckett University

Leeds Beckett University is committed to enhancing student employability through robust placement programmes, internships, and industry partnerships. Our focus on practical, work-based learning ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the competitive job market. With a dedicated Careers and Employability Service, students receive tailored support from their first year through to post-graduation. Placements are integrated into many undergraduate and postgraduate courses, allowing you to gain real-world experience while earning credits towards your degree.

Key Employability Statistics

Leeds Beckett boasts impressive graduate outcomes. According to the latest Graduate Outcomes survey:

• Employment Rate: 95% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation.
• Average Starting Salary: £26,000, with many sectors offering higher figures for skilled roles.
• Highly Skilled Employment: 85% of graduates secure professional or managerial positions.

These figures highlight our success in bridging the gap between academia and industry, particularly in fields like business, health, sports, and engineering.

Types of Placement Programmes

We offer a variety of placement options to suit different career goals and academic schedules. Placements can be:

• Sandwich Placements: A full year in industry, typically in the third year of a four-year degree. Ideal for building extensive experience.
• Short-Term Internships: 4-12 weeks during summer breaks or as part of modules, perfect for exploring sectors without long commitments.
• Work-Based Learning Modules: Integrated projects with employers, lasting 10-20 weeks, combining academic assessment with practical application.
• International Placements: Opportunities abroad through partnerships with global organisations, enhancing cultural competence and CV appeal.

Many courses, such as BSc (Hons) Business Management and BA (Hons) Journalism, mandate placements, while others make them optional for added flexibility.

Support from the Careers and Employability Service

Our comprehensive support ensures you're never alone in your placement journey. Services include:

1. One-to-One Advice: Personal consultations with career coaches to identify suitable placements and refine your professional profile.
2. CV and Application Workshops: Regular sessions on crafting standout CVs, cover letters, and LinkedIn profiles. Pro Tip: Tailor your applications to highlight transferable skills from university projects.
3. Mock Interviews and Assessment Centres: Practice sessions with feedback from industry experts to build confidence.
4. Employer Events: Annual career fairs, networking evenings, and sector-specific talks connecting you with over 500 regional and national employers.
5. Online Resources: Access to a digital portal with job listings, placement vacancies, and alumni success stories.

Additionally, our Placements Team assists with visa advice for international students and funding options, such as bursaries covering travel or accommodation costs during placements.

Top Sectors and Employers

Leeds Beckett's location in the vibrant city of Leeds provides access to a thriving economy. Popular placement sectors include:

Sector	Example Employers	Typical Roles
Business and Finance	HSBC, PwC, Leeds Building Society	Marketing Assistant, Financial Analyst
Health and Social Care	NHS Trusts, Age UK	Nursing Support, Community Outreach
Sports and Leisure	Leeds Rhinos, British Cycling	Event Coordinator, Performance Analyst
Creative Industries	BBC Leeds, Channel 4	Content Creator, Digital Media Intern
Engineering and Construction	BAM Nuttall, Arup	Project Assistant, Site Engineer

These partnerships often lead to graduate job offers, with 40% of placements converting to full-time roles.

Student Success Stories

Take Sarah, a Business Management student who secured a year-long placement at Deloitte. "The support from the Careers Service was invaluable— from interview prep to negotiating my role. It directly led to my graduate position," she shares.

Or Jamal, an International student in Sports Coaching, who interned with the English Institute of Sport. His experience abroad through our global programme boosted his employability in coaching roles worldwide.

Getting Started with Placements

To embark on your placement, start by booking an appointment with the Careers Service via our student portal. Explore course-specific opportunities during induction week and attend our Placement Fair in October. Remember, early applications increase your chances—deadlines vary by programme.

At Leeds Beckett, placements aren't just an add-on; they're a pathway to success. Join our community of over 1,000 students annually who transform academic knowledge into professional achievements.