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Placement Information at Kingston University
Kingston University London is committed to enhancing students' employability through robust placement programs and dedicated career support services. With a focus on practical, industry-relevant experiences, the university integrates work placements into many undergraduate and postgraduate courses, particularly in fields like business, design, engineering, and media. These opportunities help students bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice, boosting their career prospects upon graduation.
Overview of Placement Opportunities
Placements at Kingston University vary by program but typically last from 6 weeks to a full year. Many courses, such as those in the Faculty of Business and Social Sciences or the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, include optional or mandatory sandwich placements. These allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, often leading to full-time job offers.
- Sandwich Placements: Integrated into degree programs, usually in the third year of a four-year course. Students spend 9-12 months working full-time with employers.
- Short-Term Internships: Ranging from 4-12 weeks, ideal for gaining initial experience during summer breaks or as course modules.
- International Placements: Opportunities abroad through partnerships with global companies, enhancing cultural competencies and global networks.
- Subject-Specific Placements: Tailored to disciplines, such as media production roles in broadcasting or design projects with creative agencies.
The university's central Placement and Employability Team coordinates these opportunities, ensuring placements align with students' career goals and academic progression. In the 2022-2023 academic year, over 70% of eligible students participated in some form of work placement.
Employability Statistics
Kingston University boasts strong graduate outcomes, with 94% of graduates in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2020-2021). This figure is above the national average, reflecting the effectiveness of the university's placement initiatives. Placements contribute significantly, as 75% of students who complete a placement receive a job offer from their host employer.
Metric | Kingston University | National Average (UK) |
---|---|---|
Employment Rate (15 months post-graduation) | 94% | 91% |
Placement Participation Rate | 70%+ | 50-60% |
Average Starting Salary (Graduates) | £27,500 | £26,000 |
Job Offers from Placements | 75% | 65% |
These statistics highlight Kingston's success in preparing students for the job market, with particular strengths in creative and digital industries.
Top Employers and Sectors
Kingston's placements connect students with a diverse range of prestigious employers. The university maintains strong ties with industry leaders, facilitating placements in high-demand sectors. Common placement destinations include:
- Media and Creative Industries: BBC, Disney, Sky, and The Guardian – roles in journalism, film production, and graphic design.
- Business and Finance: KPMG, Deloitte, and HSBC – positions in accounting, marketing, and consulting.
- Healthcare and Engineering: NHS Trusts and Siemens – opportunities in biomedical engineering and clinical support.
- Technology and IT: Google, IBM, and local startups – software development and cybersecurity internships.
- Public Sector: Local councils and government agencies – policy analysis and community projects.
Emerging sectors like sustainability and digital innovation are also prioritized, with placements in green tech firms and app development companies. The university's location in southwest London provides proximity to major business hubs, enhancing access to these opportunities.
Career Support Services
Beyond placements, Kingston University offers comprehensive support through the Kingston Career Zone, a one-stop hub for career development. Services include:
- CV and Application Workshops: Personalized feedback to tailor applications for specific placements.
- Mock Interviews and Assessment Centers: Practice sessions with industry professionals to build confidence.
- Employability Skills Training: Modules on networking, presentation skills, and project management.
- Mentoring Programs: Pairing with alumni and industry mentors for guidance throughout placements.
- Job Fairs and Networking Events: Annual events featuring over 100 employers, including virtual options for broader reach.
Additionally, the Future Skills initiative embeds employability into the curriculum, with all students accessing online resources like LinkedIn Learning and the university's job portal. International students receive tailored visa advice for placements, ensuring compliance with UK work regulations.
Success Stories and Tips for Students
Many Kingston alumni credit placements for their career launches. For instance, a Graphic Design graduate secured a role at a leading advertising agency after a 6-month placement, while a Business Management student transitioned into a graduate scheme at a top bank post-sandwich year.
To maximize placement benefits, students should:
- Start early: Engage with the Careers Team in year one to identify opportunities.
- Build a strong profile: Participate in extracurriculars and volunteer work.
- Reflect on experiences: Use placement feedback to refine career goals.
- Leverage networks: Attend events and connect on professional platforms.
Overall, Kingston University's placement ecosystem fosters not just employment but long-term career success, equipping students with the skills and connections needed in a competitive job market.
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