Study Abroad with Uscholars and avail One way Flight Ticket and Free TOEFL / IELTS Training. T&Cs apply*
University of Strathclyde

University of Strathclyde

Glasgow, UKRank #20

The University of Strathclyde (Scottish Gaelic: Oilthigh Shrath Chluaidh) is a public research university located in Glasgow, Scotland. Founded in 1796 as the Andersonian Institute, it is Glasgow's second-oldest university, having received its royal charter in 1964 as the first technological university in the United Kingdom. Taking its name from the historic Kingdom of Strathclyde, it is Scotland's third-largest university by number of students, with students and staff from over 100 countries.

Top Recruiting Companies

Leading companies that recruit from University of Strathclyde

Placement Opportunities at the University of Strathclyde

The University of Strathclyde, located in the heart of Glasgow, Scotland, is renowned for its commitment to practical, industry-relevant education. With a strong emphasis on employability, the university offers a wide range of placement opportunities designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and the professional world. These placements, including internships, industrial years, and work-based projects, help students gain invaluable real-world experience, enhance their CVs, and boost their career prospects. Strathclyde's placements are integrated into many degree programs, particularly in engineering, business, science, and law, ensuring students can apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings.

Types of Placement Programs

Strathclyde provides diverse placement options tailored to different academic levels and career goals. Here's an overview:

  • Summer Internships: Short-term placements lasting 8-12 weeks during summer breaks. Ideal for first- and second-year students to explore industries like finance, engineering, and marketing.
  • Year-in-Industry Placements: Full-year placements embedded in four-year degree programs, especially in the Faculty of Engineering and Faculty of Science. Students spend their third year working full-time with partner companies, earning a salary while gaining credits toward their degree.
  • Work-Based Learning Modules: Integrated placements within the curriculum, allowing students to undertake projects with local or international organizations without interrupting their studies.
  • International Placements: Opportunities abroad through partnerships with global firms, supported by the university's Go International program. This includes exchanges and internships in Europe, Asia, and North America.
  • Graduate Placements: Post-graduation schemes for master's students, often leading to permanent roles in sectors like energy, consulting, and technology.

Many programs, such as the MEng in Chemical Engineering or BSc in Business Management, require or strongly recommend a placement year, with over 70% of eligible students participating annually.

Key Partner Employers and Industries

Strathclyde boasts an extensive network of over 1,000 employer partners, ranging from multinational corporations to startups. Placements are available across various sectors, ensuring broad opportunities. Below is a table highlighting prominent industries and example employers:

Industry/Sector Example Employers Typical Placement Roles
Engineering & Manufacturing BAE Systems, Siemens, Rolls-Royce Design Engineer, Project Assistant
Business & Finance Deloitte, JP Morgan, KPMG Financial Analyst, Marketing Intern
Technology & IT IBM, Microsoft, Skyscanner Software Developer, Data Analyst
Healthcare & Science NHS Scotland, AstraZeneca, GSK Research Assistant, Lab Technician
Law & Public Sector Scottish Government, Pinsent Masons Policy Advisor, Legal Intern

These partnerships are fostered through the university's dedicated Strathclyde Success Programme, which aligns placements with Scotland's thriving economy, including its energy sector and financial services hub in Glasgow.

Support and Resources for Placements

The university's Strathclyde Careers Service plays a pivotal role in facilitating placements. From CV workshops and mock interviews to employer fairs and personalized career coaching, students receive comprehensive support throughout their journey. Key resources include:

  1. Placement Portal: An online platform (Myplace) where students search and apply for opportunities, track applications, and access visa advice for international placements.
  2. Skills Development Workshops: Sessions on employability skills like networking, presentation, and commercial awareness, often led by industry experts.
  3. Mentoring Programs: Pairing students with alumni mentors who have completed placements, providing insights and guidance.
  4. Funding Support: Bursaries and travel grants available for unpaid or low-paid internships, ensuring accessibility for all students.
  5. Post-Placement Debriefs: Reflection sessions to help students articulate their experiences for future job applications.

Additionally, the Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences offers specialized placement fairs, while the Business School hosts annual recruitment events with top graduate employers.

Outcomes and Employability Statistics

Strathclyde's focus on placements yields impressive results. According to the latest Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) data, 95% of graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation, with placement participants achieving a 10% higher employment rate than non-participants. Notably:

  • Over 80% of students secure placements in their preferred sector.
  • Average starting salary for placement students is £25,000-£30,000, rising to £35,000+ for engineering graduates.
  • 40% of placements lead to full-time job offers upon completion.

Success stories abound: For instance, engineering student Sarah Thompson completed a year-long placement at BP, which transitioned into a graduate engineer role. Similarly, business graduate Ahmed Khan's internship at HSBC paved the way for a career in international banking.

In summary, placements at Strathclyde are a cornerstone of student development, offering hands-on experience, professional networks, and a competitive edge in the job market. Whether you're aiming for a local firm or global opportunity, the university's robust ecosystem ensures you're well-prepared. To get started, visit the Careers Service website or attend the next placement fair—your future career awaits.

Still have questions about University of Strathclyde?

Our expert counselors are here to help you with any queries about studying at University of Strathclyde.

Contact Us