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UCL Department of Economics

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L102 Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions for BSc Economics with a Placement Year (L102).

 

Why can't a placement be guaranteed for me?

Most employers who offer placement opportunities for 9 months or more require you to apply through a competitive process. We will support you through these processes but cannot guarantee that at the end you'll be offered a placement.

You should take the lead in identifying suitable placements and applying for them. 

What types of organisations can I apply to?

An approved placement will enable you to gain direct professional experience and provide opportunities for you to achieve the learning and research objectives related to your degree. A placement must be approved by the BSc Director. We expect the placement to be in the UK. 

You may want to consider organisations such as, the Bank of England; the Goverment Economics Scheme (GES), and the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (OFGEM).

What support will I recieve?

The Department will give you bespoke support in applying and preparing for placements.

UCL Careers also offers support in terms of employer fairs and presentations. You can also book one-to-one appointments for careers guidance, application/CV checks, and practice interviews.

What happens if I am unsuccessful in applying for a placement?

In the event that you are not successful in securing a placement, you would usually, (provided you meet any requirements) be able to request to transfer to the three year BSc Economics degree at the end of second year.

Is there any additional workload associated with the placement year?

During the second year you'll need to spend time researching, applying and preparing for your placement and during the third year there will be academic assignments to complete in addition to working full-time. This is an essential part of your learning, and will add to your workload. You will also participate in our Economics Skills Lab in the second and final years to help you enhance your workplace skills.

Are there any academic requirements I must meet in order to be permitted to go on placement?

You must meet the progression requirements for the degree in order to go on placement. You'll need to complete and pass all first and second year units, including any compulsory modules, and have secured a placement offer from an employer and meet any conditions stated in the offer, before starting the placement in year 3. If you don't meet these requirements you may be able to transfer to the three year Economics degree.

Can I go on placement abroad?

No, currently the placement must be based in the United Kingdom (UK).

Can I found my own company or start-up as a placement opportunity?

No, currently you must undertake a placement year at an established organisation where you work as an employee.

What are the fees for the Economics with a Placement Year degree?

Students will pay reduced tuition fees to UCL during the placement year. For further information about UCL tuition fees please see Fees & Funding.

I’m a student on Tier 4 visa, will I be able to work on a placement year?

You must ensure that you have the right to stay in the United Kingdom (UK) as a student for four years and that you have the right to work on an academic placement in your third year.

For further information you can visit the Immigration and Visas webpage. 

Will I be paid for my placement?

We believe it’s important to offer our students paid placements and as such we only advertise placements that comply with UK minimum wage rates.