Year in Industry
The Year in Industry is an optional extension of select MSc programmes, allowing you to gain full-time, paid professional experience before you graduate.
Alongside your academic studies, you will take part in a structured employability programme and receive dedicated support from our specialist placement partner. This prepares you to compete for early-career roles and maximise your chances of securing a placement aligned with your career goals.
How the programme works
Our MSc Year in Industry placement offers the opportunity to gain valuable professional experience through a full-time, paid role lasting a minimum of 35 weeks. Placements are sourced from the open job market and must be relevant to your field of study, ensuring you develop skills aligned with your career goals. While placements cannot be guaranteed, the programme is carefully designed to prepare you for success, with comprehensive support provided throughout your search and application journey.
International students
For international students, the Year in Industry offers:
- An additional year of full-time work experience as part of your degree
- The opportunity to gain UK industry experience before graduating
Combined with the Graduate Route, this can extend your time gaining professional experience in the UK after your studies.
Year 1: Study and preparation
During your first year, you will:
- Complete your taught modules and dissertation
- Take part in a structured employability programme
- Develop your CV, interview skills, and job search strategy
- Receive personalised coaching and guidance
You will begin preparing for placements during the academic year and start applying at the appropriate stage with guidance from the placement team.
Placement search period
After successfully completing Year 1, you will enter the placement search and recruitment phase. Securing a placement is a competitive process, similar to applying for a graduate job.
You are expected to:
- Actively engage with the employability programme
- Maintain a strong CV and professional profile
- Search and apply for relevant roles
- Attend interviews and assessments
- Communicate professionally with employers
While you will receive extensive support, taking an active and consistent approach is key to success. If you secure a placement, you will progress to Year 2.
Year 2: Industry placement
- A full-time, paid role lasting at least 35 weeks
- A position aligned with your field of study
- Ongoing support and monitoring from the University and placement partner
On successful completion, you will graduate with your MSc, including an Industrial Practice endorsement.
Frequently asked questions
Is a placement guaranteed?
No. Placements operate within a competitive job market. However, you will receive structured support and guidance to maximise your chances of success.
When should I start applying?
You will begin preparing in Year 1 and start applying at the appropriate time, guided by the employability programme.
Do I need prior work experience?
No, but relevant experience can be an advantage. You can strengthen your profile through skills development, part-time work, and active engagement with the programme.
What happens if I don’t secure a placement?
If you do not secure a placement within the required timeframe, you will continue on the standard MSc programme and graduate through the regular route. A partial refund can be requested if you have engaged in more than 80% of the support programme. This change will also affect your student visa (if applicable). You will not be eligible for the additional year of sponsorship under their Student Visa. You will still be eligible for the Graduate Route Visa according to your individual eligibility.
What support do I receive during placement?
You will have access to:
- Academic support from the University
- A workplace mentor
- Ongoing support from the placement partner
- Student support services, including wellbeing and visa advice
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Employability support
You will receive structured and personalised support throughout your placement journey.
Structured employability programme
Designed specifically for Master ’s-level recruitment, this includes:
- Sector-specific job search strategies
- CV and professional profile development
- Application and interview preparation
- Mock interviews and assessments
- Insight into UK recruitment practices
One-to-one coaching
You will have access to tailored support, including:
- Feedback on applications
- Interview preparation and practice
- Guidance on assessments and recruitment processes
Employer engagement
Our placement partner works with employers to:
- Build relationships across relevant sectors
- Promote the programme to organisations
- Identify opportunities students can apply for
You may also be introduced to employer networks and opportunities where appropriate.