Placement years take place between the penultimate and final years of your degree. Here’s how it works:

• Complete your penultimate year as usual.
• Spend the following year working for an employer.
• Return to university for your fourth and final year.

This experience allows you to gain valuable industry insights and professional skills, making you more attractive to employers.

Whilst on placement, you are still a student. You will:

• Complete two work-based assignments with help from an academic tutor.
• Receive personal and professional development support from a Placement Officer. 

Our Placement Officers are available year-round to provide tailored advice and guidance on:

• Career planning
• Skills development
• Mock interviews
• Presentation practice

Access bespoke events and workshops, many of which feature top employers like L’Oréal, PwC, HPE, Sony, Deloitte, and Unilever. 

If no events are listed, contact us at bbs-careers@contacts.bham.ac.uk to find out when the next sessions will be running.

Alternatively, browse other events on Careers Connect

We partner with various organisations to offer exclusive roles for Business School students, helping you stand out in the job market. We continue to develop more exclusive opportunities each year. 

What is the application process?

Most companies require a combination of your CV, a covering letter, or an online application form—sometimes all three!

If successful, you may need to take online tests and have a telephone interview. The final stage often involves a day-long assessment centre with at least one face-to-face interview.

Each company’s process may vary.

When can I start applying?

Companies typically open their application processes in the summer after your first year. Some close as early as October, so it’s best to prepare early!

Larger companies usually accept applications throughout the Autumn Term of your second year, while smaller companies begin in the Spring Term.

What is the minimum placement length and number of hours per week?

The Year in Industry requires a full-time (35-40 hours per week), contracted, commercial/business-related placement lasting at least 33 consecutive weeks.

Most advertised placements last for 12 months.

I’m an overseas student. Will I need a visa/work permit for my placement? Will a placement company sponsor me?

If you are an overseas student, check UK visa requirements as they vary by country: 

Seek advice from the International Student Team if you have concerns.

Apply for your visa as soon as possible, as some companies will not consider your application until your visa has arrived. Placement companies typically do not sponsor visas.

If you have any other questions, you can email us at: bbs-careers-ug@contacts.bham.ac.uk or book an appointment to speak to a Placement Officer.