This module allows students to undertake a Work Based Placement during the summer period between Year 2 (Level 5) and Year 3 (Level 6). Students are required to find and secure their own placement, which must be approved by the module team in advance. The placement must involve a minimum of 70 hours of professional experience, approximately equivalent to two weeks of full time work.
Early in Year 2 (Level 5), an introductory event presents the module and provides guidance on identifying and applying for suitable placement opportunities. This session is open to all students, including those who may not ultimately enrol on the module. Throughout Year 2 (Level 5), students are supported by Academic Advisers and Careers and Employability in seeking appropriate opportunities. Additional seminar activities in Semester 2 prepare students for professional expectations and workplace engagement.
Students do not have a confirmed place on the module until they have secured and had approved a 70 hour placement. They must then complete the placement over the summer in order to progress with the module. When selecting PSYC399 as a Year 3 (Level 6) option, students are required to choose an insurance module, which will replace PSYC399 if the placement requirements are not fulfilled.
Following completion of the placement, further taught sessions in Semester 1 of Year 3 (Level 6) include seminars on employability theory and research, career management strategies, networking, skills articulation and structured reflection on professional experience.
The module is assessed through two authentic assessments. Assessment 1 consists of a CV tailored to the student’s chosen career direction, with a brief reflection on the placement included as an appendix. Assessment 2 consists of a career case story in which students critically reflect on their development and outline future career progression steps. PSYC399 is offered as an alternative to PSYC358, and students may not take both modules.