Overview of Placements at the University of East London

The University of East London (UEL) places a strong emphasis on employability, integrating practical placements into many of its undergraduate and postgraduate programs. With its location in the heart of London, UEL offers students unparalleled access to a diverse range of industries, from creative sectors to finance and healthcare. Placements provide hands-on experience, helping students build professional networks, develop skills, and enhance their CVs. Whether through sandwich years, summer internships, or short-term projects, UEL's placement opportunities are designed to bridge the gap between academic study and the workplace.

UEL's commitment to placements is evident in its 90% employability rate for graduates within six months of completion, according to the latest Graduate Outcomes survey. The university collaborates with over 1,000 employers, including major organizations like the NHS, BBC, and Deloitte, ensuring placements align with real-world demands.

Types of Placement Opportunities

UEL offers a variety of placement options tailored to different degree levels and career goals. These include:

• Sandwich Placements: Integrated into three- or four-year degrees, these full-year placements occur between the second and final years. Common in fields like business, engineering, and computing, they allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in professional settings.
• Internships: Short-term opportunities lasting 8-12 weeks, often during summer breaks. These are ideal for gaining initial experience and are available across disciplines such as media, law, and education.
• Work-Based Learning Modules: Embedded within the curriculum, these involve part-time placements or projects that contribute to academic credits. For example, architecture students might work on live construction sites.
• International Placements: Partnerships with global organizations enable overseas experiences, particularly in sustainability and international business programs.

Postgraduate students can access research placements or industry-sponsored projects, often leading to further study or direct employment.

Key Sectors and Partner Employers

UEL's placements span multiple sectors, leveraging London's status as a global hub. Popular areas include:

• Health and Social Care: Placements in hospitals and community services, partnering with the NHS and local councils.
• Business and Finance: Roles in marketing, accounting, and HR with firms like KPMG and local startups.
• Creative Industries: Opportunities in film, design, and digital media through collaborations with the Barbican and advertising agencies.
• Engineering and Technology: Placements at tech firms and construction companies, focusing on sustainable engineering.
• Education and Sports: Work in schools, sports facilities, and coaching programs.

Sector	Example Employers	Typical Placement Roles
Health	NHS Trusts, Barts Health	Nursing assistant, community outreach
Business	Deloitte, Local SMEs	Marketing intern, financial analyst
Creative	BBC, Pinewood Studios	Production assistant, graphic designer
Engineering	Transport for London, Siemens	Project coordinator, CAD technician

Career Support and Preparation

UEL's Careers and Employability Service provides comprehensive support to maximize placement success. This includes:

1. CV and Interview Workshops: Tailored sessions to refine application materials and practice interviews.
2. Placement Portal: An online platform listing opportunities, application deadlines, and employer profiles.
3. Mentoring Programs: Pairing students with alumni or industry professionals for guidance.
4. Skills Development: Training in areas like digital literacy, teamwork, and project management through workshops and e-learning modules.
5. Assessment Centers: Mock assessments to prepare for competitive selection processes.

Additionally, the university hosts annual career fairs and employer networking events, where students can connect directly with recruiters. For international students, visa advice and cultural integration support ensure smooth transitions into placements.

Success Stories and Outcomes

Many UEL students have transformed their careers through placements. For instance, Sarah Thompson, a Business Management graduate, secured a full-time role at Deloitte after her sandwich placement in audit services. Similarly, engineering student Amit Patel contributed to a sustainable transport project with Transport for London, leading to a graduate scheme offer.

Statistics highlight the impact: 85% of placement students report improved confidence and skills, while 70% receive job offers from their placement employers. UEL tracks long-term outcomes, with alumni in leadership roles at organizations like Google and the United Nations.

How to Get Started with Placements

To pursue placements, students should:

• Consult their program handbook for integrated opportunities.
• Register with the Careers Service early in their studies.
• Attend placement fairs and apply via the dedicated portal.
• Seek advice from academic advisors for course-specific options.

UEL encourages proactive engagement, offering funding for travel and accommodation where needed. For more details, visit the UEL website or contact the Careers team. Placements at UEL not only boost employability but also foster lifelong professional growth in a dynamic, supportive environment.