Master your creative career with our definitive guide to internships, sandwich courses, and work experience at Ravensbourne.
Studying at a digital-media-focused institution like Ravensbourne University London places you right at the heart of one of the world's most vibrant creative hubs. Located on the Greenwich Peninsula, Ravensbourne is renowned for its industry connections in digital media, design, fashion, and television. However, graduating with a degree is only the first step; securing meaningful work experience UK employers demand is what truly sets successful graduates apart.
Opting for a Ravensbourne University placement year transforms a standard three-year degree into a dynamic, highly employable package. Whether you are studying graphic design, animation, fashion promotion, or digital television production, embedding an industry placement into your academic journey bridges the gap between theoretical classroom learning and the fast-paced demands of the creative industries.
A placement year—often structured as a sandwich course—typically takes place between your second and final year of undergraduate study. During this time, you step out of the lecture hall and into a full-time, professional role within your chosen sector. This intercalated year allows you to apply your skills on live commercial projects, build a robust professional network, and often secure a graduate job before your final year even begins.
Ravensbourne’s academic framework is heavily aligned with industry standards. The curriculum is designed in consultation with leading brands and creative agencies, ensuring that the skills you develop during your first two years make you an attractive candidate for top-tier companies offering an internship program.
Navigating the competitive landscape of London's creative sector can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, the dedicated career services team at Ravensbourne provides comprehensive support throughout your placement journey. From CV workshops and portfolio reviews to mock interviews and exclusive job boards, the university ensures you put your best foot forward.
"The career services team at Ravensbourne helped me refine my CV and portfolio specifically for major design agencies in Shoreditch. Landing my placement year changed my entire outlook on the industry." - Maya Lin, BA Graphic Design GraduateThe university actively collaborates with an extensive network of industry partners, ranging from cutting-edge tech startups and boutique design firms to global broadcasting giants and fashion houses. This means students have access to exclusive listings for work experience UK providers might not advertise openly to the public.
Deciding whether to add a placement year involves weighing up the timeline and financial investment against the long-term career payoff. The table below outlines how a standard degree compares to a sandwich course route at Ravensbourne.
| Feature | Standard 3-Year Degree | Sandwich Course with Placement Year |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 3 Years | 4 Years |
| Tuition Fees (Placement Year) | Standard full-time fee | Significantly reduced fee (approx. 15-20% of standard fee) |
| Work Experience | Optional summer internships | 12 months of immersive industry practice |
| Graduate Employability | Good, but competes with national average | High, often featuring direct conversion to full-time employment |
| Degree Title | BA / BSc (Hons) | BA / BSc (Hons) with Professional Practice / Placement |
Competition for the top creative placements can be fierce. To stand out from applicants across the UK, you need a proactive strategy. Start your search early—ideally at the beginning of your second academic year. Design agencies and media firms often open their recruitment windows months in advance.
Your portfolio is your currency. Ensure your digital portfolio showcases not just your final polished pieces, but your research, sketches, and problem-solving methodology. Employers want to see how you think, collaborate, and adapt to feedback.
Finally, leverage LinkedIn and attend Ravensbourne’s internal networking events and industry showcases. Many of the best internship opportunities are secured through direct networking and informational interviews rather than standard application portals.