Staffordshire University places a strong emphasis on employability, integrating practical work placements into many of its undergraduate and postgraduate programs. These placements provide students with invaluable real-world experience, helping them bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice. Whether you're studying business, engineering, health sciences, or creative arts, the university's commitment to placements ensures you gain skills that employers value.

Types of Placement Opportunities

At Staffordshire University, placements are designed to suit different learning needs and career goals. The university offers a variety of options to maximize flexibility and accessibility.

• Sandwich Placements: These are integrated into degree programs, typically lasting 12 months between the second and final year of study. Ideal for full-time undergraduates, they allow you to apply theoretical knowledge in a professional setting while earning a salary.
• Short-Term Placements: Ranging from 4-12 weeks, these are often part of elective modules or summer opportunities. Perfect for gaining initial exposure without a long commitment.
• International Placements: Collaborate with global partners for overseas experiences, enhancing cultural awareness and international employability. Destinations include Europe, Asia, and North America.
• Postgraduate Placements: Tailored for master's students, these can last 6-9 months and focus on research or industry projects, often leading to consultancy roles.

Over 70% of our courses include some form of work-based learning, ensuring that placements are not an afterthought but a core component of your education.

Benefits of Placements

Participating in a placement at Staffordshire University offers numerous advantages that extend beyond your CV. Here's why students and graduates rave about them:

• Enhanced Employability: Placements boost your job prospects; 95% of placement students secure graduate-level roles within six months, compared to the national average of 75%.
• Skill Development: Gain hands-on experience in areas like teamwork, problem-solving, and industry-specific tools, making you more confident in interviews.
• Networking Opportunities: Build connections with professionals and potential employers, often leading to job offers before graduation.
• Financial Support: Many placements are paid, with average earnings of £18,000 per year, helping offset living costs.
• Academic Credits: Placements contribute to your degree, with reflective assessments that deepen your understanding of course material.

Alumni often credit placements for their career success, with many advancing to leadership positions in top firms.

Placement Statistics and Success Stories

Staffordshire University's placements have a proven track record. In the latest academic year:

Metric	Percentage/Number
Students Participating in Placements	85% of eligible undergraduates
Employment Rate Post-Placement	92% within 6 months
Average Placement Duration	9 months
Industries Represented	Over 500 partner organizations

Consider Sarah, a Business Management student who secured a placement at a leading logistics firm. "It transformed my perspective," she says. "I went from theory to managing real teams, and it led to my full-time offer." Stories like Sarah's highlight the tangible impact of our programs.

How to Secure a Placement

Getting a placement is straightforward with the university's dedicated support. Follow these steps:

1. Explore Options: Attend career fairs and workshops in your first year to identify suitable placements.
2. Build Your Profile: Update your CV and LinkedIn, and seek advice from the Careers and Employability Service.
3. Apply Early: Placements are competitive; applications open in the autumn term for the following year.
4. Prepare for Interviews: Mock interviews and CV clinics are available to hone your skills.
5. Visa and Logistics: For international students, the team assists with Tier 4 visa extensions for placements.

No prior experience is required—our programs are open to all eligible students, with tailored guidance for those new to the job market.

Industry Partners and Sectors

Staffordshire University boasts an extensive network of partners across diverse sectors, ensuring placements align with your interests. Key industries include:

• Healthcare and Social Care: Partnerships with NHS Trusts and private clinics for nursing and therapy students.
• Engineering and Technology: Collaborations with companies like Rolls-Royce and local tech startups.
• Business and Finance: Placements at banks, consultancies, and SMEs in the Midlands region.
• Creative and Digital: Opportunities with media agencies and game development studios, leveraging our Stoke-on-Trent campus's creative hub.

Recent partners include Jaguar Land Rover, Potteries-based manufacturers, and international firms like IBM. This network not only provides placements but also guest lectures and mentorship.

Student Support During Placements

Your success is our priority. The Placement Support Team offers ongoing assistance, from pre-placement preparation to on-site visits. You'll have access to:

• Mentoring from academic supervisors.
• Online resources for remote placements.
• Wellbeing checks to ensure a positive experience.
• Post-placement debriefs to reflect and plan your next steps.

With this comprehensive support, Staffordshire University ensures placements are rewarding and stress-free, setting you up for a thriving career.

In summary, placements at Staffordshire University are more than temporary jobs—they're career launchpads. By participating, you'll join thousands of graduates who have turned academic potential into professional achievement.