Placement years happen between the penultimate and final years of your degree. 

• You complete your penultimate year as usual.
• The following year you work for an employer. 
• You return to University for your fourth and final year.

Placements are an opportunity for you to gain industry experience before graduation. You can gain professional skills, which will be helpful when applying for graduate jobs.

While on placement, you are still a student:

• You will complete two work-based assignments with the support of an academic tutor. 
• During this year, you will work with a Placement Officer who will support you in your personal and professional development. 

Placement Officers are available throughout the year to support you in your search. They can give you individual tailored advice and guidance on things like:

• Career guidance.
• Skill development.
• Mock interviews.
• Presentation practice.

• Speak to a Placements Officer

You will have access to bespoke events and workshops. Many of which will be with employers. Previous employers include L’Oréal, PwC, HPE, Sony, Deloitte, and Unilever, to name a few. 

If nothing is displayed, contact us at bbs-careers@contacts.bham.ac.uk to find out when the next bespoke sessions will be running.

Alternatively, browse other events on Careers Connect

We partner with many different organisations to find exclusive roles for Business School students. These roles can help set you apart when applying for jobs. We are continuing to develop more exclusive opportunities each year. 

What is the application process?

Most companies ask for a combination of your CV, covering letter or an online application form - sometimes all three! 

If your application is successful, you may then need to take online tests and have a telephone interview. The final stage is often a day-long assessment centre, which will involve at least one face-to-face interview. 

Each company varies in its process.

When can I start applying?

Companies will start to open their application processes in the summer after your First Year. Some will close as early as October, so it’s best to prepare early! 

You will be able to apply to most of the larger companies throughout the Autumn Term of your Second Year. Smaller companies tend to begin their application processes 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. 

However, most advertised placements last for 12 months.

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

If you are an overseas student, you will need to check UK visa requirements as these differ from country to country: 

If you have any concerns about this, you should seek advice from the International Students Advisory Service.

If you need a visa, it is best to apply for it as soon as possible. Some companies will refuse to consider your application until your Visa has arrived. Placement companies will not be able to sponsor you.

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