Placement And Career Information

Bath Spa University has a clear employability focus and offers several work experience routes through Bath Spa Works, placement modules, internships and graduate support services.

How Placements Usually Work

Bath Spa says placements are self-sourced, so students are expected to apply directly to employers and complete the full application process.

Depending on the course, students may be able to take:

• A Work Placement open module of 70 to 120 hours
• A Professional Placement Year between second and third year
• An internship or studio residency
• Freelance or business start-up routes

The university states that a Professional Placement Year costs 20% of the full-time course fee. Eligible students may also be able to access the PPY Bursary to help with costs such as travel, food, workwear or accommodation.

Career Support At Bath Spa

Students can use:

• MyCareer
• Careers appointments
• Placement support
• Internships and graduate schemes
• Emerge studio and studio residencies
• Freelance and business start-up support
• Resources for applications and interviews
• Graduate support through the Grad Support Unit

Bath Spa's careers service also gives students access to on-campus part-time jobs and one-to-one appointments.

Graduate Career Routes

Students often progress into careers in:

• Teaching and education
• Creative industries
• Media and film
• Design
• Arts and cultural organisations
• Business and entrepreneurship
• Science and environmental work
• Freelance creative practice

Benefits For International Students

Placement and career support can help international students:

• Understand the UK job market
• Build local references
• Improve interview confidence
• Explore graduate roles before graduating
• Learn how to discuss visa status with employers
• Create a plan for work after graduation

Bath Spa's international support pages also provide guidance on preparing to work in the UK and understanding what UK employers want.

Advice For September 2026 Students

Students starting in September 2026 should treat career planning as a first-year activity, not something to leave until final year. They should log into MyCareer early, attend events, build a CV, and look for suitable placement routes as soon as their course allows.

The strongest results usually come from combining Bath Spa's support with steady applications and early preparation.