- How much will I earn?
- When can I start my placement?
- What is the placement project?
- Will I have to pay university fees for the placement year?
- Can I get a student loan on placement?
- What support will I get during the placement year?
- Can I still use the library or studentcentral?
- Will I now have to pay council tax?
- Is it worth it?
How much will I earn?
Salaries vary from employer to employer, depending upon the degree of responsibility involved in the job and the location you will be working in.
On a one year placement you can expect to earn between £10,000 and £18,000, probably about £14,000.
Please remember that the placement is an educational enterprise and represents a highly valued part of your course. A good placement is much more important than a high salary.
When can I start?
Some employers have a specific date on which you are expected to start – this is generally early July. If they do not, then it is up to you to negotiate the starting date, bearing in mind that the degree regulations require you to spend 48 weeks on placement and if you add in the extra four weeks of holiday that most people receive, you are looking at 52 weeks minimum.
Do not book holidays until you are sure you know your placement starting date.
The finish date will also be determined by the company. It will usually be twelve months after you start, but you may be able to arrange an extension. If another student is taking your place the company may ask you to stay on for at least a week or two, in order to hand-over to your replacement.
What is the placement project?
Whilst on placement you are expected to produce a work-related project of up to 10,000 words. This is to be submitted early in the first month of your fourth year. Remember, this replaces your final year dissertation and gives you exemption from a double module in the final year.
Will I have to pay university fees?
Fees for the placement year are set currently at £710 (£1,650 for international students).
Can I get a student loan on placement?
Yes you will still be able to obtain a loan; letters are issued by the Registry after registration and payment of the reduced fee.
What support will I get during the placement year?
You will receive the support of the placement office throughout the placement should you need it at any time. You will also be allocated a personal academic supervisor who will support you in developing your placement project. Your tutor will visit you at the company twice and you will be invited back to the university for two day-schools during your placement year.
Can I still use the library or studentcentral?
As a registered student you can use all university facilities and some areas you will still be able to claim student rates for public transport.
Will I now have to pay council tax?
Council tax exemption is not guaranteed. It is at the discretion of the local authority. Most local authorities do give placement students full exemption, but a very few will only give discounts and one or two give discounts to placement students living in university-approved accommodation only.
It also depends on who you share accommodation with. If it is other full-time registered students, exemptions are the norm. However, if you live with wage-earning graduates you may have to pay in full. You may wish to check with your local council.
Is it worth it?
Yes, of course it is. Students on placement have been shown to improve their final degree classification, increase their self confidence and esteem and improve their chances of relevant valuable employment on graduation.
