Kick- start your career with a work experience placement and beat some of the competition to the best jobs!
FAQ
What is a placement?
A placement is a valuable opportunity for students to integrate relevant practical work with academic study. It prepares you for the real world. You apply for placements as you would for a real job.
Who can do a placement?
You must be registered for a full time university degree programme in the School of Engineering and Information Sciences. All programmes in the School are available for a placement option.
Will the placement administration find a job for me?
No. It is the responsibility of the student to find their placement but will do all we can to support your search.
Does the placement administration need to be told if I get a placement?
Yes. The School must approve your placement, as suitable for inclusion in your degree programme.
Do I need to have passed all my modules before I go on placement?
It is a requirement of going on placement that you have completed the first two years of study successfully (240 credits).
How long is a placement?
You must be on placement for a minimum of a number of weeks depending on your programme. Normally your placement will last for one calendar year. The only restriction imposed, by the School is that you must be back at university in time for your final year of study.
Do I get credits for going on placement?
Yes, upon successful completion of the placement module you will be awarded 120 credits, which will be recognised on your transcript. All students who undertake a placement will receive Diploma in Industrial Studies.
Will I be paid?
You will be employed under a contract of employment that will state the terms of your employment. However, we advise that you do not take a position that does not offer a reasonable salary. It is a matter of negotiation between you and your employer.
Can I complete my placement with more than one employer?
Normally, your placement will be completed with one employer but in exceptional circumstances it could be completed with more than one.
Will I need to attend lectures whilst on placement?
No, your placement is carried out entirely with the employer.
Will I pay tax and national insurance?
Everyone who works full time legally pays tax and national insurance. Your employer is legally obliged to give you a pay advice every month telling you how much tax and NI has been deducted.
Do I need to do any academic work whilst on placement?
Yes, there are academic requirements. Your placement will be graded pass or fail. You have to produce a graded placement report, which must address the learning objectives, which will be set by your visiting tutor in consultation with you and your employer.
What support will I receive from the school whilst on placement?
You will be given a visiting tutor. This is usually a member of the School academic staff but on occasions (if, for instance, your placement is overseas) we may outsource this activity.
What is the first step to going on placement?
In order to go on placement you must register electronically via: eisworkplacements@mdx.ac.uk with the placement administration in the School. You will be expected to attend drop in sessions, which are designed to help you with CV’s, covering letters, interview skills, job search skills and how to approach the world of work.
