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What is a sandwich course in the UK?
In the UK, a sandwich course is a degree program in which you work for 9 months to a year before returning to classes for the rest of the program. These courses are obviously longer than a standard degree, but the advantage is that universities will usually give you a place, and this work experience is quite valuable when you graduate and start looking for work.
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Difference between a sandwich course and a full-time course
The main difference between a sandwich course in the UK and a regular program is that the former includes a dedicated year for internship and work experience. Students wishing to complete their degree while working should enroll in the full-time sandwich program. Many UK universities have introduced compulsory courses in certain subjects such as psychology, engineering, business and design.
Although there may be internship opportunities on a regular course, these are typically only for up to 12 weeks, whereas on a sandwich course, the internship year lasts between 9 and 12 months. Another difference between the two courses is that placement on a sandwich course is not compulsory: students must work in the industry to complete the degree.
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Types of sandwich courses in the UK
There are two types of sandwich courses: thin sandwich courses and thick sandwich courses.
- Over the course of a year, thin sandwich courses include two to three internships or six months of work.
- Thick sandwich courses consist of one year of internship or work experience in a company. These organizations, companies and institutions are usually associated with the main university. This helps the student to get immediate approval or job offer.
Benefits of taking a sandwich course in the UK
- The biggest benefit of earning a sandwich degree is the opportunity to gain valuable work experience. Students learn to combine practical experience with theoretical knowledge.
- Sandwich courses prepare students to enter the industry. For example, mechanical engineering students can secure placements with leading industry players such as Spirit AeroSystems, Caterpillar, McLaren F1, Michelin and Rolls Royce, etc.
- Some courses, such as non-professional sandwich degrees, which include an additional year of study abroad, allow the student to gain new cultural and linguistic experiences . For some language courses, primary universities provide students with funding to cover student expenses abroad .
- Sandwich courses certainly give students the advantage of higher job qualifications than regular courses.
- Multiple internships throughout the year for international students wishing to apply for a work visa after studying in the UK.
- Sandwich courses allow students to earn money during the program and gain valuable networking skills and opportunities in the relevant industry.
Are sandwich courses offered at all universities?
Unfortunately, sandwich courses are not available at all universities. Even if your university provides job opportunities, your field of study may not. However, you have the opportunity to take a summer internship. Since they are held in the summer when the university is closed, they are open to all students. Internships can range in length from four weeks to three months and are available in almost every industry.
Your sandwich submissions should be professional and tailored to each opportunity. Make sure your resume is up to date and highlights the key skills required for the position.
If you must send a cover letter, do not use a generic template. Do some research on the company and the role they are offering and use your cover letter to explain what makes you suitable for the role, what it is about the company that attracts you and how you can make a valuable contribution.
Universities offering sandwich courses in the UK
There are several colleges that offer sandwich courses, especially in subjects related to business, humanities, engineering, computer science and mathematics. Some colleges have connections with organizations and understudies get the opportunity to work in a particular organization. The following universities offer sandwich courses at undergraduate or postgraduate level in the UK:
| University | Courses | Connection |
| University of Bath | Course: Architecture (BA Hons) Duration : 4 years Internship Duration: 1 year Course: Management (BA Hons) Duration : 4 years Internship Duration : 1 year |
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| Manchester Metropolitan University | Course : Banking and Finance (BSC Hons). Duration : 3 years, full time. Internship duration : 1 year. Course : International Hospitality Management (BSC Hons). Duration : 3 years, full time. Internship duration : 1 year. |
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| Staffordshire University | Course : Mechanical Engineering (BEng and MEng). Duration : 4 years, full time. Placement period : 1 year. Course : Cyber Security (BSC Hons). Duration : 3 years, full time. Placement period : 1 year. |
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| Middlesex University | Course : Fashion Design (BA Hons). Duration : 3 years, full time. Internship duration : 6 weeks. Course : Business Management (Marketing) (BA Hons). Duration : 3 years, full time. Internship duration : 1 year. |
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| Leeds Beckett University | Course : Accounting and Finance (BA Hons). Duration : 3 years, full-time. Placement period : 1 year. |
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| Loughborough University | Course : MBA. Duration : 2 years. Internship duration : 1 year. |
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| Birmingham City University | Course : MBA. Duration : 12 months. Internship duration : 4 months internship. |
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| University of Sunderland | Course : MBA. Duration : 18 months and 24 months. Internship duration : 1 year. |
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| Kingston University London | Course : MBA. Duration : 2 years. Internship duration : 1 year. |
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Selection criteria for sandwich courses in the UK
Here are the basic requirements for studying in the UK, which are similar to sandwich courses:
- Minimum 60% of the relevant/specified course and recognized commission.
- Score chart for English proficiency tests such as TOEFL / IELTS /C1 Advanced. (Some universities exempt students from this if they meet specified criteria)
- GMAT / GRE for graduate programs
- Academic transcripts
- Letter of recommendation (ENT)
- Portfolio (for specific courses)
- Resume (if applicable)
- Statement of Objectives (SOP)
Sandwich Placement Scholarship
Employers usually provide students with internships for several years at a fair salary, although this is not a legal obligation. These can range from £11,000 to £25,000 [INE 11 to 25 Lakhs] depending on the sector, region and business, with the average salary being approximately £18,000 [INE INR 18 Lakhs].
How to Apply to UK Universities: A Step-by-Step Guide
International students applying to UK universities should follow carefully considered guidance before starting the application process:
Step 1: Shortlist of courses and universities
The first step in the application process is to shortlist courses and universities according to your academic profile and preferences. Students can shortlist courses and universities using AI-Course Finder , create a list of universities they are most likely to get into, and plan their application process in advance.
Step 2: Know your deadlines
The next step is to find out the exact application deadlines for the UK universities and colleges you plan to apply to. International students must apply early (one to 6 months before the actual deadline). This ensures that students are able to complete all college requirements such as SOPs, letters of recommendation, English proficiency tests, funding/scholarship and accommodation options.
Step 3: Pass the entrance test
The third step in the UK university application process requires students to take tests such as IELTS , TOEFL , PTE or GRE/ GMAT /LNAT/BMAT/MAT (on some courses). Some universities may give students scores on the SAT or ACT exams. A new addition to English proficiency tests is the Duolingo test , which allows students to take the exam from the comfort of home and is accepted worldwide.
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Step 4: Gather your documents
The next step is to collect all the necessary documents and test results to submit your application. This means students should start writing their SOPs , obtaining letters of recommendation from teachers and supervisors, and organizing their financial statements along with other documents such as test score sheets. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, students must upload vaccine certificates and indicate the vaccine administered on the application.
Step 5: Getting Started with the Application
Once you have all the documents in place, students can begin the application process either directly or through UCAS. Students applying to study in the UK who accept direct applications can start by applying through the university’s official website. They need to select courses, pay registration fees and begin the online application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sandwich course in the UK?
A sandwich course is a 4 to 5 year course that combines an undergraduate/postgraduate degree with a year’s internship in a professional environment. This includes time spent away from university on an internship; this could be a full year or a small degree with several internships spread throughout the program
When will my placement take place?
It also depends on the university and course you choose and what you are studying. However, most university admissions occur in the third year. This largely depends on the subject you are studying as well as the university itself.
Is placement optional on sandwich courses?
No, posting is not required. Sandwich courses are an important part of a university education, especially in disciplines where practical experience is the best way to learn theory. They provide students with practical work experience, transferable skills that employers value, enhance learning and provide insight into the workings of a specific industry.
Are you getting paid for a sandwich course?
Yes, students are paid a stipend during sandwich courses for completing internships and internships. The stipend varies depending on the type of job, industry, and company.
How long does my sandwich course last?
The length of placement depends on the type of sandwich course. In the thick sandwich course, an entire year is set aside for practice, while in the thin sandwich course, students can undertake multiple internships and internships throughout the year.
Are you planning to study sandwich courses in the UK? Contact our Leverage Edu experts on 1800 572 000 to help you with the application process, exam preparation, scholarships and getting into your dream university in the UK.