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Solent University

Solent University

Southampton, UKRank #109

Solent University (formerly Southampton Solent University) is a public research university based in Southampton, United Kingdom. It has approximately 10,500 students (2019/20). Its main campus is located on East Park Terrace near the city centre and the maritime hub of Southampton.

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Overview of Placements at Solent University

Solent University, located in the vibrant city of Southampton, UK, places a strong emphasis on employability and practical experience. With its roots in creative industries, business, and maritime studies, the university integrates placements into many degree programs to bridge the gap between academic learning and the professional world. Placements, often referred to as sandwich years or work-based learning, allow students to gain real-world experience, build networks, and enhance their CVs. Whether you're studying fashion design, nursing, or sports management, Solent's commitment to placements ensures graduates are job-ready. In fact, over 90% of Solent graduates are in employment or further study within six months of graduating, according to recent Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) data.

The university's Careers and Employability Service plays a pivotal role in supporting students throughout their placement journey. From initial advice to post-placement reflection, this dedicated team helps students secure opportunities that align with their career goals. Placements are available across all faculties, including Business, Media and Performing Arts, and Sport, Health and Social Sciences, making them accessible to a wide range of disciplines.

Types of Placement Opportunities

Solent University offers diverse placement options tailored to different learning needs and career aspirations. These opportunities vary in duration and structure, ensuring flexibility for students.

  • Sandwich Placements: Integrated into three- or four-year degree programs, these full-year placements typically occur between the second and final year of study. Students earn a salary while gaining hands-on experience in their field. Popular in engineering, business, and creative courses.
  • Short-Term Internships: Lasting from a few weeks to six months, these are ideal for building skills without a full-year commitment. Available during summer breaks or as elective modules.
  • Work-Based Learning Modules: Embedded within the curriculum, these combine academic assessment with practical work, often in partnership with local industries like Southampton's port and creative sectors.
  • International Placements: Through programs like Erasmus+ and global partnerships, students can undertake placements abroad in countries such as the USA, Australia, or EU nations, enhancing cross-cultural competencies.

A key highlight is the university's Placement Guarantee Scheme for select courses, where students who meet academic criteria are assured a placement opportunity. This initiative has boosted participation rates, with more than 1,200 students completing placements annually.

Support Services for Placements

Solent's comprehensive support ecosystem ensures students are well-prepared and confident during their placement search and execution. The Careers and Employability Service offers personalized guidance, including CV workshops, mock interviews, and employer networking events.

Service Description Availability
Placement Portal An online platform listing exclusive vacancies from partner employers, with application tracking tools. Year-round access for enrolled students.
Employability Workshops Sessions on job hunting, LinkedIn optimization, and placement preparation, led by industry experts. Weekly during term time; on-demand recordings.
Mentoring Program Pairing with alumni or professionals for one-on-one advice on placement applications and career planning. Opt-in throughout the academic year.
Funding Support Grants and bursaries for travel, accommodation, or visa costs related to placements, especially international ones. Application-based; up to £1,500 available.

Additionally, faculty-specific advisors provide course-relevant insights. For instance, the Faculty of Media and Performing Arts connects students with placements at BBC Southampton or local theaters, while the Business School links to firms in the city's financial district.

Industry Partnerships and Employer Engagement

Solent fosters strong ties with over 500 employers, including global names like Rolls-Royce, IBM, and the NHS, as well as regional SMEs. These partnerships facilitate bespoke placement programs, such as the Maritime Academy's shipyard apprenticeships or the Fashion Design collaborations with London Fashion Week affiliates.

Annual events like the Solent Employability Fair bring hundreds of recruiters to campus, where students can pitch for placements directly. The university also runs a Placement Ambassador Scheme, where past students share experiences and tips, demystifying the process for newcomers.

Success Stories and Outcomes

Placements at Solent have transformed countless careers. Take Sarah, a Graphic Design student who secured a six-month internship at a Southampton advertising agency through the Placement Portal. This led to a full-time offer upon graduation, crediting Solent's support for her confidence boost.

Similarly, in the health sector, nursing students often complete placements at University Hospital Southampton, gaining clinical hours that count toward professional registration. Statistics show placement participants are 25% more likely to secure graduate jobs in their field compared to non-participants.

Looking ahead, Solent continues to evolve its offerings, with new initiatives like virtual placements for digital skills and sustainability-focused opportunities. By prioritizing placements, Solent equips students not just with degrees, but with the experience employers value most.

In summary, whether aiming for local impact or global reach, Solent University's placement ecosystem provides the tools, connections, and opportunities to launch a successful career. Students are encouraged to engage early with the Careers Service to maximize their potential.

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