Introduction

The Independent Work Experience (IWE) modules offer a choice of credit bearing modules enabling you to experience the world of work whilst developing important personal and employability skills and, of course, gaining credit towards your degree.Work placements are between 50 and 80 hours long depending upon the module option you select. You will attend a flexible programme of workshops and tutorials, and complete the appropriate module assignments. With the help and support of your IWE module tutor/co-ordinator in the Skills Team, together with your personal tutor, you will be able to organise your own placements.

The following quote is currently posted on the Oxford University Web pages: "Is it better for your career to get a first or work experience?"

The Association of Graduate Recruiters (AGR) reported that 4% of their members would pay around £500 extra to a successful candidate with a first-class degree. However, this is by no means an indication that getting top examination marks is a guarantee of a job after graduation.

The Department for Education and Skills report on work-related learning (2002) strongly confirmed the importance of work experience for new graduates, stating that "many companies will not take on a graduate, unless they have had work experience". The report "Pay and Progression for Graduates" (2004) from Incomes Data Services found that around a quarter of organisations pay a premium for work experience. Being particularly strong in the manufacturing sector, this premium was on average £1,002 p.a.

A further pointer to the advantage of work experience in gaining a graduate position has been revealed through research of some 66 graduate employers by the University of Manchester and UMIST Careers Service in 2004. Their research shows that an average of 70% of work experience placements - summer or year long -  lead to a graduate job offer.
(Courtesy of Dominic Laing, from "What do Graduates Do?" 2004 , reprinted in Prospects Finalist)