Overview of Placements at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University (BU) places a strong emphasis on employability, integrating practical work experience into its curriculum to prepare students for successful careers. With a focus on real-world application, BU's placement programs help students bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice. Many undergraduate and postgraduate courses include optional or mandatory placements, often referred to as "sandwich" years, where students spend 6-12 months in industry. This hands-on approach has contributed to BU's high graduate employment rates, with 95% of graduates in work or further study within 15 months of graduation, according to the latest Graduate Outcomes survey.

Types of Placement Opportunities

BU offers a variety of placement options tailored to different academic disciplines, ensuring flexibility for students across its faculties of media & communication, science & technology, health & social sciences, and management. Placements can be:

• Sandwich Placements: A full academic year (typically 30-52 weeks) inserted between the second and third years of study. These are common in courses like Business, Computing, and Engineering.
• Short-Term Internships: 4-12 week opportunities during summer breaks or as part of module assessments, ideal for gaining initial exposure in fields like media production or tourism.
• Integrated Work Experience: Embedded within the course, such as clinical placements for nursing students or project-based roles in architecture.
• International Placements: Opportunities abroad through partnerships with global organizations, enhancing cultural competence and resume appeal.

Students in creative fields, such as film or digital design, often secure placements at renowned studios, while business students might intern at multinational corporations. BU's placement team assists in matching students with roles that align with their career goals and academic progress.

Employment Statistics and Outcomes

BU's commitment to placements is reflected in its impressive outcomes. The university consistently ranks in the top 10 UK universities for graduate employability in creative and digital sectors. Key statistics include:

Metric	Percentage/Figure	Source/Year
Graduates in professional jobs or further study	95%	Graduate Outcomes 2022
Average starting salary for placements	£18,000 - £25,000	BU Careers Data 2023
Placement completion rate	85% of eligible students	Internal Survey 2023
Conversion to full-time employment post-placement	70%	BU Alumni Tracking 2022

These figures highlight how placements boost employability, with many students receiving job offers from their placement employers. For instance, in the media sector, BU graduates often transition into roles at BBC or Pinewood Studios, crediting their placements for practical skills like project management and teamwork.

Support and Resources for Placements

BU provides comprehensive support to ensure students maximize their placement experience. The Careers and Employability Service offers personalized guidance from the first year, including CV workshops, mock interviews, and access to an online job portal with exclusive listings. Key resources include:

• Placement Preparation Program: Workshops on application techniques, networking, and professional etiquette.
• Mentoring Scheme: Pairing with industry professionals for advice and connections.
• Funding Assistance: Bursaries up to £1,500 for travel and accommodation during placements, especially for unpaid or low-paid roles.
• Visa Support for International Students: Guidance on Tier 5 visas for UK placements and J-1 visas for US opportunities.

Additionally, the university's Future Focus initiative connects students with alumni networks, fostering long-term career development. Academic tutors monitor placement progress through regular check-ins, ensuring alignment with learning outcomes.

Sectors and Partner Organizations

Placements span diverse sectors, leveraging BU's location on the south coast near hubs like London and Bristol. Popular industries include:

• Creative and Digital: Film, animation, and marketing with partners like Warner Bros. and Disney.
• Business and Finance: Roles at Deloitte, KPMG, and local startups.
• Health and Social Care: NHS trusts and private clinics for midwifery or physiotherapy students.
• Tourism and Hospitality: Placements at international chains like Hilton or regional attractions.
• Technology and Engineering: Collaborations with IBM and aerospace firms.

BU's partnerships with over 2,000 organizations worldwide ensure a broad range of opportunities. Students are encouraged to apply early, as competitive roles fill quickly.

Student Experiences and Tips

Many BU students describe placements as transformative. For example, Sarah, a Media Production graduate, secured a placement at a London advertising agency, leading to a full-time role: "The experience built my confidence and portfolio—essential for breaking into the industry." To succeed, students should:

1. Research roles thoroughly and tailor applications.
2. Build a strong LinkedIn profile and network at BU career fairs.
3. Seek feedback during placements to enhance skills.
4. Document experiences for future references or dissertations.

In summary, Bournemouth University's placement programs offer invaluable pathways to professional success, equipping students with the tools to thrive in a competitive job market. Whether through structured years or short internships, these opportunities underscore BU's dedication to fostering employable graduates.