Placements and work experience

Placement year

A placement year is:

• a year of work experience with an organisation, which is integrated into your course;
• self-sourced by students with support from your school and the Careers & Employability Service;
• a recognised part of your programme that will be included in your award title;
  typically undertaken in your penultimate year of study and usually lasting at least 38 weeks;
• available to both home and international students;
• paid, in most instances.

The placement year is a flexible option that you do not need to commit to at the point of entry. You might choose a placement that is related to your degree, or you might choose to complete one in an area that is completely different. Many students find that their placement year increases their confidence, sharpens their focus and makes their CV shine - meaning you will gain so much whilst learning in the process.

Major companies around the world, as well as right here in Sheffield, are keen to recruit our students because our degrees have a global reputation for excellence. Students have previously completed placements with organisations such as AstraZeneca, the Cabinet Office, IBM, Rolls Royce, the NHS and The Walt Disney Company. 

Hear from previous placement students about their experience:

Work Experience

We ensure all students have access to work experience or work-related learning opportunities in or outside of the curriculum, whether you decide to complete a placement year or not. We can support you to find internships, vacation work, part-time jobs, virtual work experience and volunteering.  

Get started

Take a look at our undergraduate prospectus to see if you can take a placement year as part of your course. 

If there’s anything you’re unsure about, we’re always here for a chat.