Student internships: UCL Next-Step Experience Internships (UCL NXI)

UCL Computer Science joins with over 300 organisations to offer students industry experiences as a key component of their taught courses. We've had thousands participate in this pioneering programme, the UCL Industry Exchange Network (UCL IXN).

Impressed by the UCL students, our partners wanted them to continue the work they'd started on IXN or task them with new projects. We launched UCL Next-Step Experience Internships (UCL NXI), so companies could hire students over the holidays for paid placements.

Benefits of UCL NXI

Paid work experience at a range of leading organisations

From tech corporations to gaming companies, and the NHS to global charities, you can build your hands-on experience while getting paid.

Discover your passions, develop your skills

Exciting projects that ensure you develop in your chosen area of expertise, or have the chance to try something new. 

You'll also get a head start in the job market by gaining vital skills for the world of work.

Key connections with employers

Make important industry connections - NXI acts as a recruitment pipeline for many of our partners.

Who can take part in UCL NXI?

You will need to have completed at least one IXN project on your programme to apply for UCL NXI.

UCL NXI allows you to expand upon the knowledge you have gained through IXN.

How does the internship programme work?

The department provides information about the UCL NXI programme throughout the academic year.

 Also, if you are working on a IXN project and are keen to work further in that field, you can complete an NXI application form. The department will then contact you about potential opportunities.

You determine the length of your internships and are assigned a mentor at the company, who is usually already an IXN mentor.

You do not acquire grades on your internship. But it is a chance to grow your skills and gain extra industry experience.

Undergraduate students are available to work over summer and winter breaks. Internships for Master's students are over the winter holiday.

What is the difference between this programme and UCL IXN?

IXN projects take place during term time and are assessed. You work on a first-generation prototype or proof of concept.

The NXI programme offers paid internships outside of term time, which are not assessed. NXI is often the second phase of a project, where you develop the software beyond a proof of concept or prototype. Essentially, IXN is phase one (proofs of concept) and NXI is phase two (R&D).

What students say about UCL NXI

“My internship with IBM has enabled me to gain professional experience in my field while still attending university. Being able to work on such advanced technology is both a challenge and a privilege. During the NXI internship, I'm developing my technical ability and other skills, like working effectively in a team.

Being surrounded by people with years of expertise and in very senior positions is encouraging me to give my all, and I'm constantly learning from being in this environment.”

Zineb Flahy, NXI intern at IBM

“My internship has enabled me to begin my journey into the world of industry. While I am only in the early stages, I have already learned much about augmented reality technology using Unity and Niantic's Lightship development platform. 

I have the most incredible mentor at Niantic, who advises me on both the technical side of the industry and my future as I get ready to leap forward into my career. The internship has allowed me creative freedom and provided insight into the stages of research and development. 

“Thank you to the UCL Computer Science team for seeing my potential and giving me this chance to explore my interests in greater depth. 

“My confidence is growing, and I can't wait to keep learning and building my technical capabilities.”

Liv Urwin, NXI intern at Niantic

What industry partners say about UCL NXI

"We were delighted by the attitude and innovative spirit that the UCL students brought. They quickly integrated into the team and their work has provided us with lasting value. We're looking forward to having them return so that they can contribute further."

Richard Jarvis, Chief Analytics Officer at EMIS

"The programme allows us to test future concepts with people that can bring fresh perspectives, allowing us to solve real-world problems with a low risk factor, whilst providing valuable experience to students."

Chris Lloyd-Jones, Emerging Technology, Product and Engineering Lead at Avanade