Placement Information at Cardiff Metropolitan University

Cardiff Metropolitan University (Cardiff Met) places a strong emphasis on practical experience and employability, integrating placements into many of its undergraduate and postgraduate programs. With a focus on real-world application, the university's placement opportunities help students bridge the gap between academic study and professional careers. Whether through sandwich degrees, internships, or work-based learning modules, Cardiff Met ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the job market. The Careers and Employability team supports students throughout their journey, offering personalized guidance to maximize placement success.

Types of Placement Opportunities

Cardiff Met offers a variety of placement options tailored to different disciplines. These include:

• Sandwich Placements: A full year in industry, typically in the third year of a four-year degree. Ideal for building extensive professional networks and gaining in-depth experience.
• Short-Term Internships: Ranging from 4-12 weeks, often during summer breaks or as part of elective modules. These are perfect for exploring career paths without a long commitment.
• Work-Based Learning Modules: Integrated into the curriculum, these provide credits toward your degree while working on live projects with employers.
• International Placements: Opportunities abroad through partnerships with global organizations, enhancing cultural awareness and international employability.

Popular programs with mandatory placements include Business Management, Nursing, Sports Coaching, and Education. For instance, in the BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science, students undertake placements at professional sports clubs, while those in BA (Hons) Primary Education gain classroom experience in local schools.

Employability Statistics and Outcomes

Cardiff Met boasts impressive employability rates, with 95% of graduates in employment or further study within six months of graduation (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2022). Placements play a pivotal role in this success, as they allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings and often lead to graduate job offers.

Program Area	Placement Rate	Average Starting Salary (GBP)	Top Employment Sectors
Business and Management	85%	25,000	Finance, Marketing, Consulting
Health and Social Care	92%	28,000	NHS, Social Services, Public Health
Sports and Exercise	88%	24,000	Sports Industry, Fitness, Coaching
Education and Teacher Training	95%	30,000	Schools, Universities, Training Providers

These figures highlight how placements boost career prospects. For example, over 70% of students who complete a sandwich placement receive job offers from their host employer upon graduation.

Support Services for Placements

The university's dedicated Careers and Employability Service provides comprehensive support to help students secure placements. Key offerings include:

1. CV and Application Workshops: Tailored sessions to craft standout applications, including mock interviews with industry professionals.
2. Placement Portal: An online platform listing thousands of opportunities, from local SMEs to multinational corporations.
3. Mentoring Programs: Pairing students with alumni who have successfully navigated placements in similar fields.
4. Skills Development: Free access to LinkedIn Learning and employability bootcamps focusing on digital skills, communication, and leadership.

Additionally, the Placement Office assists with logistics such as visa support for international students and funding for travel expenses. Students are encouraged to start planning early, with placement fairs held twice a year featuring over 100 employers.

Industry Partnerships and Employer Engagement

Cardiff Met has forged strong ties with a wide range of employers across Wales and the UK. Notable partners include:

• Public Sector: NHS Wales, Cardiff Council, Welsh Government.
• Private Sector: Admiral Insurance, Deliveroo, Iceland Foods.
• Sports and Leisure: Cardiff City FC, Welsh Rugby Union, Sport Wales.
• Education: Local primary and secondary schools, universities like University of South Wales.

These partnerships ensure placements are relevant and aligned with industry needs. Employers value Cardiff Met students for their enthusiasm and practical skills, often providing bespoke training during placements.

Student Experiences and Success Stories

Placements at Cardiff Met have transformed many students' careers. Here's what some graduates have shared:

• "My six-month internship at a local marketing agency turned into a full-time role. The university's support was invaluable in preparing my portfolio." – Sarah L., Business Management graduate.
• "Working with the NHS during my nursing placement gave me confidence and real patient care experience. I felt ready for the ward from day one." – Jamal K., BSc Nursing alumnus.
• "The international placement in Spain through the Sports program opened doors to coaching opportunities worldwide." – Elena R., Sports Coaching student.

In summary, Cardiff Metropolitan University's placement programs are designed to foster employability, offering diverse opportunities backed by robust support. By participating, students not only gain hands-on experience but also position themselves for long-term career success in a competitive job market.