The PTY comprises three assessed modules:

Module    Level P Credits

·             VisitingTutors’ Assessments              25 credits

·             WorkplaceSupervisor’s Evaluation      45 credits

·             ProfessionalandPersonal Development                         

-Student’sOral Presentation  10 credits

-Student’s Placement Report 40 credits

Total  120

The professional placement year (Level P) constitutes the third year of the four-year undergraduate degree programme.  A student will require at least 75 credits at Level 2 in order to proceed to Level P.  Please note: the Professional Placement year (Level P) is compulsory for BSc Sociology and Social Research Students. 

For the Student

·         To acquire, develop and apply new skills appropriate to the professional setting in which they are working.

·         To apply knowledge and skills acquired in the academic setting to the practical demands of the employing organisation.

·         To develop and utilise appropriate interpersonal skills in the organisation setting.

·         To develop and refine the communication skills required of a person working in a professional capacity.

For the Department

·         To provide students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills as an employee in a professional capacity. 

·         To promote Departmental links with industry, commerce and professional bodies

·         To keep abreast of developments in the behavioural sciences as applied in a 'real world' setting

·         To make graduates more attractive to employers and enhance their employment prospects

·         To produce a more rounded and mature graduate

For the Employer

·         To employ (for a limited period), an intelligent and committed individual who will contribute to the effectiveness of the organisation.

·         To participate in a professionally-oriented education scheme at university level.

·         To contribute to undergraduate learning so as to produce graduates with the knowledge and skills which are of value to the employer.

·         To enhance the links between University and employers to the potential benefit of both.

The social sciences offer a wide range of placement possibilities.  Whatever your chosen placement, the University requires that it conform to the following broad outline:

Timing: The period during which students must undertake their professional year is from completion of their examinations at the end of Level 2 (June), to immediately prior to commencing their final year (October the following year).

Duration: During this l5 month period, the normal university requirement is that students will undertake 46 weeks (excluding holidays) of employment in a relevant professional placement.