Introduction to Placements at University of South Wales

The University of South Wales (USW) places a strong emphasis on employability, integrating practical work experience into many of its degree programs. Placements provide students with invaluable real-world exposure, helping bridge the gap between academic learning and professional careers. Whether through sandwich years, summer internships, or integrated work modules, USW's placement opportunities are designed to boost skills, networks, and job prospects. With campuses in Pontypridd, Cardiff, and Newport, students benefit from proximity to thriving industries in Wales and beyond.

Types of Placement Opportunities

USW offers a variety of placement options tailored to different courses and student needs. These include:

• Sandwich Placements: A full year in industry between the second and final year of study, common in engineering, business, and computing degrees. This extended experience allows for deeper immersion and often leads to graduate job offers.
• Short-Term Internships: Summer or semester-based roles lasting 8-12 weeks, ideal for building initial experience without interrupting studies.
• Integrated Work Placements: Embedded within the curriculum, such as in nursing, journalism, or creative media programs, where students complete assessed work-based learning as part of their degree.
• International Placements: Opportunities abroad through partnerships with global companies, enhancing cultural awareness and international employability.

Over 70% of USW undergraduate courses include some form of optional or mandatory placement, ensuring students graduate with practical expertise.

Key Sectors and Partner Employers

USW's placements span diverse sectors, reflecting the university's focus on high-demand industries. Students collaborate with leading employers, gaining hands-on experience in innovative environments. Below is a table highlighting key sectors and example partners:

Sector	Example Placements	Partner Employers
Engineering & Technology	Aerospace design projects, software development	Airbus, GE Aviation, Thales UK
Business & Finance	Marketing campaigns, financial analysis	HSBC, PwC, Cardiff Council
Health & Social Care	Clinical placements, community health initiatives	NHS Wales, Care Inspectorate Wales
Creative Industries	Film production, digital media content creation	BBC Cymru Wales, Pinewood Studios
Computing & IT	Cybersecurity audits, app development	Admiral Group, Fujitsu

These partnerships not only provide placements but also facilitate guest lectures, site visits, and recruitment events, enriching the student experience.

Employment Outcomes and Statistics

USW's commitment to placements yields impressive results. According to the latest Graduate Outcomes survey, 95% of USW graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduating, significantly above the national average. Placement students particularly excel, with over 60% securing jobs with their placement employer.

Key statistics include:

• Average starting salary for placement participants: £25,000 (higher than non-placement peers by 15%).
• Placement completion rate: 98% across all programs.
• Top destinations: 40% in Wales, 35% in the UK (outside Wales), 15% international, and 10% in further study.

These figures underscore how placements at USW translate into tangible career advantages, with alumni thriving in roles from project managers to healthcare professionals.

Support Services for Placements

USW provides comprehensive support to help students navigate placements successfully. The Employability and Careers Service offers personalized guidance from day one:

• CV and Application Workshops: Tailored sessions to craft standout applications, including mock interviews with industry experts.
• Placement Portal: An online platform listing thousands of opportunities, with filters for sector, location, and duration.
• Mentoring Programs: Pairing with alumni and career advisors for ongoing advice during placements.
• Funding Assistance: Bursaries and travel support for unpaid or low-paid internships, ensuring accessibility for all students.
• Wellbeing Support: Counseling and resources to manage work-study balance, especially for international students.

This holistic approach ensures students are well-prepared and confident, maximizing the benefits of their placements.

How to Secure a Placement

Securing a placement at USW is straightforward with the right preparation. Follow these steps:

1. Research Early: Attend career fairs and explore the placement portal in your first year.
2. Build Skills: Engage in extracurriculars, volunteering, or part-time work to enhance your profile.
3. Apply Proactively: Submit applications 6-12 months in advance; many placements are competitive.
4. Prepare for Selection: Practice interviews focusing on transferable skills like teamwork and problem-solving.
5. Reflect and Learn: Upon completion, document experiences for your portfolio and future applications.

Academic tutors and placement coordinators provide course-specific advice, making the process seamless.

In summary, placements at the University of South Wales are a cornerstone of its student-centered approach, fostering professional growth and long-term success. By participating, students not only gain practical skills but also join a vibrant network of alumni and employers, setting the stage for rewarding careers in a competitive job market.