Placements

Placements are structured experiences in which individuals perform tasks within a real-work setting to apply knowledge and skills learned in education or training. The term is used across education, recruitment, and testing contexts.

In education, a placement (often called an industrial or work placement) is a supervised work-based component integrated into a degree program. It usually runs several months to a full academic year, may be paid or unpaid, and is credited toward the degree. Students seek placements through university offices or directly with employers, and a supervisor or mentor oversees the work. The purpose is to provide practical skills, industry exposure, and professional networking, and to help learners make career choices. Some programs require a placement; others offer it as an optional option.

In employment contexts, placement refers to the assignment of workers to jobs by staffing or recruitment firms. Temporary placements supply staff for short-term needs; permanent placements match candidates with long-term roles. Agencies typically handle screening, interviews, and onboarding, and may charge employers a fee or take a commission.

Placement tests are assessments used to determine appropriate levels for learners in courses such as languages or math. Results guide course enrollment, prerequisites, or progression decisions, and tests can be standardized or program-specific.

Benefits of placements include hands-on experience and improved job prospects, while challenges can include variable quality, compensation disparities, or misalignment with learning goals. Good practice emphasizes clear objectives, supervision, safety, and alignment with educational or organizational aims.

See also: internships, apprenticeships, cooperative education, student placement services.