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When it comes to higher education, a degree is only one part of the equation. The real game-changer often lies in the experience you gain during your studies. This is where the placement year at Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) comes into play. Known for enhancing career prospects and boosting employability, the placement year- often referred to as the “Year in Industry” or “Sandwich Year”-provides students with valuable professional experience, preparing them for success in their future careers.

A placement year at CCCU is an optional, 12-month professional work experience opportunity, typically undertaken between your second and final year of study. It’s a chance to take what you’ve learned in the classroom and apply it in a real-world setting, enhancing both your skill set and your employability. This year is especially beneficial for students in programs like Business Management, Marketing, Computer Science, and Software Engineering, among others.

Here’s the catch: You only pay tuition for three years, even though your degree will extend to four years with the placement year. This means you get a year of professional experience and a degree, all while saving on tuition fees.

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Timing: Typically, your placement year occurs between Year 2 and Year 3, allowing you to take an entire year off to gain work experience, which extends your degree by just one year.

Eligibility: While available for many courses at CCCU, the placement year is particularly embedded in programs offered by the Business School (Business Management, Marketing) and the School of Computing (Computer Science, Software Engineering). If you’re pursuing one of these programs, you’ll likely have access to this exciting opportunity.

Payment: The best part? Most placement year roles are paid, with salaries ranging from the Minimum Living Wage up to £30,000 or more. This is a fantastic way to gain professional experience while earning an income.

Location: Your placement can be completed in various locations- locally, across the UK, or even abroad. This flexibility allows you to find a placement that aligns with your career aspirations, whether you want to stay close to home or explore new cities and countries.

CCCU goes above and beyond to ensure you make the most of your placement year.

• Careers and Enterprise Hub: The university’s dedicated Careers and Enterprise Hub provides 1-to-1 appointments, CV workshops, interview preparation, and other personalized support to help you secure the best role for you.
• InPlace System: Canterbury Christ Church University introduced the InPlace System back in late 2024 as a new digital platform designed to make managing placements more efficient, covering tasks such as allocations, timesheets, and communication with your placement provider.
• Academic Supervision: According to Canterbury Christ Church University, students are assigned a Personal Academic Tutor (PAT) when they arrive, providing ongoing support and guidance to help maintain academic progress during placements.

For certain professional courses at CCCU, placements are compulsory rather than optional. These placements are an integral part of the curriculum and are designed to ensure that students graduate with practical experience in their chosen fields. Here are some examples:

Nursing: Includes 4–12 week blocks in NHS Trusts, primary care settings, and private healthcare institutions, giving you hands-on experience in patient care.

Social Work: Requires 70 days of placement in Year 2 and 100 days in Year 3, preparing you for real-world social work scenarios.

Primary Education: Features three core placements across different key stages, helping you achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

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A placement year is more than just a break from your studies- it’s an investment in your future career. Here’s why:

1. Enhanced Employability: By gaining real-world work experience, you’ll develop the skills and knowledge that employers are actively seeking. Graduates with work experience are more likely to secure a job upon graduation.
2. Networking Opportunities: A placement year allows you to build professional relationships, connect with industry leaders, and even land a full-time role after graduation.
3. Increased Confidence: Stepping into a professional environment and taking on real responsibilities can significantly boost your confidence, making you more prepared for your post-graduation career.
4. Financial Benefits: With most placements being paid, you’ll not only gain invaluable experience but also earn an income, helping to offset your living costs during your studies.
5. Global Experience: For those who want to broaden their horizons, completing your placement abroad can provide international experience that sets you apart in today’s global job market.

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What is a placement year at CCCU?

A placement year is an optional 12-month professional work experience undertaken between your second and final year of study, helping you gain practical skills and enhance your employability.

Do I have to pay tuition fees for the extra year?

No, you only pay tuition for three years, even though your degree will extend to four years with the placement year.

Are placements paid?

Yes, most placement roles are paid, with salaries ranging from the Minimum Living Wage to over £30,000, depending on the industry and role.

Can I do my placement abroad?

Yes, placements can be completed locally, across the UK, or even abroad, offering flexibility in terms of location.

Which courses offer the placement year?

The placement year is available for many courses, particularly those in the Business School (e.g., Business Management, Marketing) and the School of Computing (e.g., Computer Science, Software Engineering).

At Canterbury Christ Church University, the placement year is a powerful way to bridge the gap between university studies and the professional world. With access to dedicated support systems and the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in your field, the placement year offers a unique advantage to students looking to kick-start their careers while still completing their degree.

Ready to take the next step? Browse the available programs and explore your options on the CCCU Course Finder, or get in touch with the CCCU Careers Team for more information. Start your journey today and secure a brighter, more successful future with CCCU’s Placement Year opportunity.