Placement and Work Experience Opportunities

Sheffield Hallam University (SHU) is renowned for its strong emphasis on practical, career-focused education. A key highlight is the university's integrated placement opportunities, which allow students to gain real-world experience as part of their degree programs. Over 90% of SHU students have access to work placements, internships, or sandwich years, providing invaluable hands-on skills and industry connections.

• Sandwich Degrees: Many undergraduate courses, such as those in engineering, business, and health sciences, include a paid year in industry. This typically occurs after the second year, extending the degree to four years but boosting employability.
• Internships: SHU partners with over 1,000 employers, including global firms like Siemens, IBM, and the NHS. Short-term internships (8-12 weeks) are available during summers or as elective modules, often leading to full-time job offers.
• Placement Support: The Careers and Employability Service offers CV workshops, mock interviews, and personalized guidance to secure placements. In 2023, 85% of placement students reported enhanced career prospects post-experience.

These opportunities are not limited to specific fields; from journalism placements at BBC Sheffield to finance roles at local banks, SHU ensures diverse options tailored to student interests.

Career Services and Employability Support

SHU's commitment to graduate success is evident in its comprehensive employability programs. The university boasts a 96% employment or further study rate within six months of graduation, well above the national average. The dedicated Careers and Employability team provides year-round support, helping students navigate the job market.

Service	Description	Benefits
JobShop Portal	Online platform listing part-time jobs, graduate schemes, and volunteering roles.	Access to exclusive SHU employer fairs and application tracking tools.
Mentoring Program	Pairing with alumni mentors in fields like IT, marketing, and sports management.	Personalized advice on career paths and networking strategies.
Skills Development Workshops	Sessions on LinkedIn optimization, interview techniques, and entrepreneurship.	Certified credentials that enhance CVs and demonstrate proactive learning.

Additionally, SHU hosts annual careers fairs with 200+ exhibitors, connecting students directly with recruiters from sectors like tech, healthcare, and creative industries.

International and Study Abroad Opportunities

For students seeking global exposure, SHU offers robust study abroad and exchange programs through partnerships with over 300 universities worldwide. These opportunities foster cultural awareness and international employability, with financial support available via Erasmus+ grants.

• Exchange Programs: Semester or year-long exchanges in countries like the USA, Australia, and Europe. Popular destinations include California State University and the University of Melbourne.
• Short-Term Mobility: Summer schools and faculty-led trips, such as environmental studies in Scandinavia or business immersion in Asia.
• Global Volunteering: Initiatives like the SHU International Volunteer Program, partnering with organizations in Africa and South America for sustainable development projects.

Participants often credit these experiences with developing adaptability and language skills, key assets in today's global job market.

Research and Innovation Opportunities

SHU encourages undergraduate and postgraduate students to engage in cutting-edge research, bridging academia and industry. The university's research centers, such as the Centre for Sports Engineering and the Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre, offer paid research assistantships and collaborative projects.

• Undergraduate Research: Summer research internships funded by the university, focusing on areas like AI in healthcare or sustainable urban design.
• Postgraduate Funding: PhD scholarships and industry-sponsored projects, with opportunities to publish in international journals.
• Innovation Hubs: Access to facilities like the Sheffield Institute of Arts and the Materials and Engineering Research Institute for prototyping and testing ideas.

SHU's focus on applied research has led to real-world impacts, such as developing eco-friendly materials used by local manufacturers.

Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Support

Aspiring entrepreneurs at SHU benefit from the Hallamshire Enterprise Hub, a dedicated space for start-up incubation. The university supports innovation through seed funding, mentorship, and accelerator programs.

• Start-Up Grants: Up to £5,000 for viable business ideas, with pitch competitions held biannually.
• Incubator Programs: 12-month support including office space, legal advice, and investor networking.
• Enterprise Modules: Embedded in business and creative courses, teaching lean start-up methodologies and digital marketing.

Success stories include alumni-founded companies like a sustainable fashion brand that secured £100,000 in venture capital post-graduation.

Scholarships, Funding, and Networking

Financial barriers shouldn't hinder opportunity; SHU offers a range of scholarships worth over £2 million annually, including merit-based awards for international students and need-based bursaries. Networking events, such as alumni panels and industry guest lectures, connect students with professionals across sectors.

In summary, Sheffield Hallam University's opportunities empower students to build versatile careers. From placements that provide immediate experience to global exchanges that broaden horizons, SHU equips graduates for a dynamic world. Engaging early with these resources maximizes potential and opens doors to lifelong success.