What is a sandwich course?

Key takeaways

• A sandwich course is a degree programme that includes a work placement, typically lasting 9-12 months.
• There are two types: thick sandwich courses (one long placement) and thin sandwich courses (two shorter placements).
• You will generally apply for placements yourself with university support, although some placements are mandatory and pre-arranged by the university.
• Most sandwich year placements are paid, and students often receive benefits like paid annual leave.
• Placement year fees are much lower than regular tuition, and international students often pay the same as home students.
• A sandwich course can boost your CV, build professional skills and make it easier to land a graduate job.

With so many degrees and course types available, applying to university in the UK as an international student can feel overwhelming. But if you are career-focused, sandwich courses can be a good fit. They combine academic study with work experience, helping you build skills, grow your network and stand out after graduation.

What is a sandwich course?

A sandwich course is a UK university degree that involves a year-long, full-time work placement, usually in an industry related to your subject. It’s called a 'sandwich' because the placement is typically taken between years of academic study, like the filling between two slices of bread.

For example, if you are studying engineering, you might spend your placement year with a construction or design firm. Business students could join a marketing team or support finance operations in a leading company, while computer science students might work as a software developer or data analyst.

Whatever your degree, your placement gives you hands-on experience and a chance to apply what you've learned in the real world.

Sandwich courses go by different names outside the UK. In the US and Canada, they are often called 'co-op programmes.' In Australia, you might hear 'work-integrated learning,' while in Europe, it’s commonly referred to as an 'industrial placement' or 'internship year.' However, the idea is the same: combining study with valuable work experience.

During your placement, you will usually work full-time, get paid and have responsibilities, just like any regular employee. Some students also take their placement abroad through the Turing Scheme, a UK government programme that supports students enrolled at UK universities to work or study overseas.

Sandwich courses are available at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Most undergraduate sandwich courses last four years, with the placement taking place in your third year.

At the postgraduate level, sandwich courses are often called '1+1 programmes.' They combine one year of academic study with a second year spent on a work placement, giving you the chance to graduate with both a master’s degree and relevant industry experience.

And the best part? Sandwich courses don’t just look good on your CV; they also pay. A 2023 TASO report found that graduates who completed a sandwich placement earned around £6,000 more per year, three years after finishing their degrees, compared to those who didn’t. 

The same report also showed that sandwich courses help reduce gaps in employment outcomes for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. 

Sandwich courses are a practical, proven way to boost your professional skills, salary and confidence, making them an excellent choice if you are serious about launching your career.

Thick vs thin sandwich courses: what's the difference?

Not all sandwich courses follow the same structure. In the UK, they usually fall into two types: thick and thin. The main difference lies in how the work placement is arranged during your degree.

Thick sandwich courses

A thick sandwich course includes one full-time placement, usually lasting between 9 and 12 months. The placement typically takes place between your second and final year, turning a three-year degree into four.

Thick sandwich courses are the most common type and are offered across a wide range of subjects.

Examples of thick sandwich courses

At Edge Hill University, students in the Faculty of Arts and Sciences can take a 12-month sandwich placement between their second and third year. They return in their final year to complete their degree and submit two assignments that connect their placement experience to their academic learning.

At the University of Greenwich, undergraduates in the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences are encouraged to complete a placement of at least 36 weeks, lasting an average of 12 months, between finishing their second year and starting their final year.

Thin sandwich courses

Thin sandwich courses involve two or more shorter placements, each around 3 to 6 months, spread across the degree. For example, you might do one placement in the second year and another in the final year. This format is less common but still used in creative or vocational subjects.

Examples of thin sandwich courses

Students at Brunel University can take a thin sandwich degree in subjects including Anthropology, Psychology, Sociology, and Communication and Media, gaining experience across different work settings.

At the University of Bath, students on the BSc Business course complete two six-month placements, one in Year 2 and one in Year 3, giving them professional experience in two different industries as part of their four-year degree.

Do you get paid for a sandwich year?

In most cases, yes. Sandwich placements are paid, especially in sectors like engineering, tech, finance and business. You will usually earn a monthly salary just like any other entry-level employee, and in many cases, the pay is enough to cover your living costs for the year.

Most placement students also receive paid holidays and other benefits similar to the company’s regular employees, such as access to training, staff discounts and wellbeing support.

Here’s what placement students typically earn in the UK, according to Glassdoor:

• Most placements: GBP 17,000-23,000 per year 
• Engineering: GBP 16,000-22,000 per year
• Finance: GBP 19,000-42,000 per year
• Digital marketing: GBP 22,000-49,000 per year
• Data analytics: GBP 22,000-39,000 per year  

Of course, salaries can vary depending on the role, employer, industry and location. For instance, if your placement is in London, you will likely earn a higher salary compared to placement students in other parts of the UK due to the higher cost of living in the capital.

Are there unpaid placements?

While most sandwich years are paid, some placements can be unpaid, though this is less common. Under UK law, placements that are a required part of your degree and last no more than 12 months are exempt from the National Minimum Wage.

As a result, some employers, especially those in sectors such as creative arts, media, charities or healthcare, may offer unpaid or lower-paid opportunities.

While unpaid placements are not illegal in some cases, many universities work hard to ensure students are fairly compensated. It's a good idea to always check the details with your university and placement provider before accepting an offer.

All in all, sandwich years are usually paid. Even if a placement isn’t paid, the experience and connections you gain can still give you a strong head start in your career. Just make sure you know what’s being offered upfront, and speak to your university’s careers team if you are unsure.

Do you have to pay tuition fees during a sandwich year?

As a registered student at your university, you will still need to pay tuition fees during your sandwich year. However, the good news is that these fees are significantly lower than your regular tuition costs.

Many UK universities charge international placement students less than 10% of the standard annual tuition fee. This reduced fee covers access to university services, including the library, careers support, online learning tools and wellbeing services. It also includes check-ins from placement supervisors.

At Kingston University, both home and international students on postgraduate sandwich programmes pay just GBP 1,575 for their placement year.

At the University of Plymouth, postgraduate students pay 20% of the standard home fee. That rate applies to all students, regardless of fee status.

At many UK universities, including Kingston and Plymouth, both home and international students pay the same reduced fee. This makes sandwich years particularly good value for international students looking to gain UK work experience.

Nevertheless, fees can vary by course and university, so it’s always best to check with your course team or student finance office before applying.

Will my university help me find a placement?

Most universities provide substantial support to help you navigate the process. Although you will often be expected to apply for your own placement during a sandwich course, your university will provide plenty of assistance along the way.

This support may include CV and interview workshops, one-on-one career consultations, seminars and access to networks of potential employers.

If your placement is a mandatory part of your course, like in education and healthcare programmes, many universities will go a step further and pre-arrange placements for you. This means you will have a clearer starting point and won’t have to search for opportunities on your own.

Some universities also have dedicated careers or placement teams who can help match you with vacancies, guide you through the application process, and offer ongoing support once your placement begins.

To get the full picture, don't forget to check your course details or speak directly with the university’s placement or careers service before applying.

Is a sandwich course worth it? What are the benefits of studying one?

For those who are career-driven and keen to build real-world experience, sandwich courses are a fantastic choice. Rather than just a line on your CV, they are a game-changer for your graduate prospects. Here's why:

Gain practical experience

You will spend time in an actual work environment, applying what you’ve learned in class and picking up new skills along the way.

Boost your graduate job prospects

Students who complete a placement year are more likely to land a job quickly after graduation. Some even receive job offers from their placement employer.

Test out your career path

A placement helps you discover if a particular role or industry is the right fit, without long-term commitment.

Develop valuable skills

From teamwork and time management to communication and problem-solving, you will develop workplace skills that can set you apart from other graduates.

Earn while you learn

Most placements are paid, helping you cover living expenses and giving you a taste of financial independence.

Grow your confidence

By working with professionals and navigating real-life challenges, you will build confidence and learn how to adapt in a professional setting.

Make industry connections

You will meet people in your field who can offer guidance, references, and possibly even job opportunities down the line.

In short, a sandwich course not only helps you graduate but also allows you to become graduate-ready.

Final thoughts

If you are looking to boost your employability, gain professional experience and make your degree even more valuable, a sandwich course could be highly beneficial.

With the chance to test out a career path, build industry connections and develop in-demand skills, sandwich courses are a great way to stand out after graduation.

Just remember to check the relevant details with your university, and start planning ahead to make the most of the opportunity.