Overview of Placement Opportunities at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes University is renowned for its commitment to enhancing student employability through robust placement programs. These opportunities allow students to gain practical experience in real-world settings, bridging the gap between academic learning and professional careers. Placements are integrated into various undergraduate and postgraduate courses, typically lasting from six months to a full year. The university collaborates with over 2,000 employers across sectors like business, engineering, healthcare, and creative industries, ensuring diverse options for students.

Whether you're studying architecture, business management, or nursing, Oxford Brookes emphasizes hands-on experience to build skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and industry-specific knowledge. Placements are often salaried, with many leading to graduate job offers. The Careers and Employability Centre plays a pivotal role in matching students with suitable roles, providing guidance from application to post-placement support.

Key Benefits of Placements

• Practical Experience: Apply theoretical knowledge in professional environments, enhancing your CV and LinkedIn profile.
• Networking Opportunities: Build connections with industry professionals, potentially leading to mentorships or future employment.
• Skill Development: Gain transferable skills like communication, time management, and adaptability, which employers highly value.
• Financial Support: Many placements offer competitive salaries, averaging £18,000–£22,000 annually, plus expenses coverage.
• Academic Credits: Placements contribute to your degree, with dedicated modules for reflection and assessment.
• Enhanced Employability: Graduates with placement experience report higher starting salaries and faster job placement rates.

Placement Statistics and Success Stories

Oxford Brookes boasts impressive placement outcomes, with over 85% of participating students securing roles within their field of study. According to the latest Graduate Outcomes survey, 95% of placement students are in employment or further study six months after graduation, compared to 90% for non-placement peers. The university's placement success is particularly strong in high-demand sectors.

Sector	Placement Uptake (% of Students)	Average Placement Duration	Conversion to Full-Time Jobs (%)
Business and Management	70%	12 months	65%
Engineering and Technology	60%	9 months	55%
Health and Social Care	80%	6-12 months	75%
Creative Arts and Design	50%	6 months	50%
Overall Average	65%	9 months	61%

Success stories abound: For instance, a Business Management student placed at a leading Oxford-based tech firm transitioned into a graduate analyst role, crediting the placement for their rapid career start. Similarly, engineering placements with automotive giants like Jaguar Land Rover have propelled alumni into innovative R&D positions.

Departments and Courses Offering Placements

Placements are available across all six schools at Oxford Brookes, tailored to specific disciplines. Here's a breakdown:

• Business School: Courses in Accounting, Marketing, and Human Resource Management include sandwich-year placements with firms like KPMG and Unilever.
• School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics: Civil Engineering and Computer Science students undertake placements at companies such as Siemens and local startups.
• School of Health and Social Care: Nursing, Midwifery, and Occupational Therapy programs feature mandatory clinical placements in NHS trusts and community health centers.
• School of Law: Law with Business placements in legal firms and corporate environments.
• School of Education: Teacher training courses offer school-based placements for practical classroom experience.
• School of Arts: Architecture and Publishing students gain roles in design studios and media agencies.

International students can access global placements through partnerships in Europe, Asia, and the US, supported by the Erasmus+ program.

Support and Resources Provided

The university's Careers and Employability Centre offers comprehensive support, including one-on-one CV reviews, mock interviews, and placement fairs held twice a year. Online platforms like the Brookes Placement Portal allow students to search and apply for opportunities directly. Workshops on employability skills, such as negotiation and presentation, are free and mandatory for placement participants.

Additionally, dedicated placement coordinators in each school provide academic oversight, ensuring placements align with learning outcomes. Mental health and wellbeing support is available through the Student Support team, helping students navigate challenges during their professional stints.

How to Secure a Placement

1. Research Early: Attend placement taster sessions in your first year to understand options.
2. Build Your Profile: Maintain a strong GPA and engage in extracurriculars to boost competitiveness.
3. Apply via Portal: Submit applications through the university's online system, typically opening in the second year.
4. Prepare for Selection: Practice interviews and assessments; the Careers Centre offers tailored preparation.
5. Secure Visa if Needed: International students should consult the International Office for Tier 4 visa extensions.
6. Reflect and Evaluate: Upon completion, submit a reflective report to earn credits and feedback for improvement.

By participating in Oxford Brookes' placement programs, students not only gain invaluable experience but also position themselves for long-term career success in a competitive job market.