Sandwich Courses in the UK

A Sandwich Course is an educational program that integrates a 4 to 5-year undergraduate or postgraduate degree with a year-long practical experience in a professional environment. This unique approach entails temporarily leaving the university to undertake a placement, which can span a full year or be structured as a “thin sandwich” degree, involving multiple internships throughout the program. Originally introduced in the United Kingdom during the 1950s, sandwich courses have since gained global popularity.

What is a Sandwich Course in UK?

In the United Kingdom, a Sandwich Course refers to a degree program that incorporates work experience of 9 months to a year, interspersed with periods of classroom learning. While these courses have a longer duration compared to standard degree programs, they offer the advantage of university-provided placements, enabling students to gain valuable work experience. This hands-on experience serves as a significant asset when graduates enter the job market and embark on their career journeys.

Difference between a Sandwich Course and a Full-time Course

In the United Kingdom, a sandwich course differs from a regular program primarily in its inclusion of a dedicated year for placement and work experience. Students who prefer to pursue their degree without interrupting their studies for work experience can opt for a full-time sandwich program. Various universities in the UK have implemented mandatory placements for specific subjects such as psychology, engineering, business, and design.

While internships may be available within a standard course, they typically span a maximum of 12 weeks. In contrast, a sandwich course extends the work experience period to 9 to 12 months. Another notable distinction between these two types of courses is that placements are not optional within a sandwich course; students are required to engage in industry work in order to fulfill the requirements of their degree.

Types of Sandwich Courses in UK

There are two types of sandwich courses: Thin Sandwich Courses and Thick Sandwich Courses.

1. Throughout the year, thin sandwich courses include two to three internships or six months of work.

2. Thick sandwich courses consist of a single one-year internship or work experience in a company. These organizations, companies, and institutions usually have an affiliation to the primary university. This helps the student in getting approvals or offers to work immediately.

Advantages of Pursuing Sandwich Courses in UK

• The biggest advantage of getting a sandwich degree is the opportunity to gain valuable work experience. Students learn to balance practical experience with theoretical knowledge.
• Sandwich courses prepare students for their industry. For instance, mechanical engineering students can get placements with top industry players like Spirit AeroSystems, Caterpillar, McLaren F1, Michelin and Rolls Royce etc. 
• Some courses like non-vocational sandwich degrees that include an additional year of study abroad, the student will gain new cultural and language experiences. For some language courses, primary universities provide students funding to cover students’ expenses abroad.
• Sandwich courses, undoubtedly, provide students with the advantage of being more skilled at work than conventional study courses.
• Multiple internships throughout the year for international students who wish to apply for post study work visas 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?

Regrettably, not all universities offer sandwich courses, and even if your university does provide such an option, it may not be available in your specific field of study. However, an alternative worth considering is pursuing a summer internship. These internships are accessible to all students since they take place during the university’s closure in the summer. Virtually every industry offers internships, and their duration can vary from four weeks to three months.

When applying for a sandwich placement, it is crucial to present yourself professionally and tailor your applications to each opportunity. Ensure that your curriculum vitae (CV) is up to date and emphasizes the essential skills required for the position.

If a cover letter is required, avoid using a generic template. Instead, conduct research on the company and the role they are offering, and utilize your cover letter to explain why you are a suitable candidate for the position. Highlight what aspects of the company appeal to you and how you can contribute value to their organization.

Universities Offering Sandwich Courses in UK

Several universities in the UK provide Sandwich Courses at the undergraduate or postgraduate level, primarily focusing on subjects related to Business, Humanities, Engineering, Computer Science, and Mathematics. These programs often involve collaborations with companies, offering students valuable opportunities to work within specific organizations. Here is a list of universities offering Sandwich Courses in the UK:

Eligibility Criteria for Sandwich Courses in UK

Here are the major requirements to study in the UK, which are similar for sandwich courses:

• Minimum 60% from relevant/specified course and recognised board
• Scorecard of English proficiency tests like TOEFL/IELTS/C1 Advanced. (Some universities exempt students from this if they meet the set criteria)
• GMAT/GRE for Masters programs
• Academic Transcripts
• Letter of Recommendations (LOR)
• Portfolio (for specific courses)
• A CV (if applicable)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)

Stipend while Pursuing Sandwich Placements

Employers generally give students on sandwich year placements with a fair salary, despite the fact that it is not a legal obligation. These can range from £11,000 to £25,000, depending on the sector, region, and business, with an average salary of approximately £18,000.