The University of Aberdeen has launched a new initiative allowing all Medical Science students the opportunity to experience a year long paid industrial placement, as part of their studies.
From September 2008, every degree programme offered by the School of Medical Sciences will provide students with the option of undertaking a work placement after their 3rd year of study.
Placements will be offered across the UK and internationally within research or commercial environments relevant to the various degree programmes.
The placement scheme is designed to benefit students by providing them with real life vocational experience which will enhance both their studies and employment opportunities following graduation.
Students undertaking placements will be paid a full salary for their placement year.
This is the first time the entire spectrum of medical science programmes will offer the placement scheme.
Professor Colin McCaig, Head of School of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen explains: "Previously certain degrees have offered students the opportunity to undertake a year out to gain experience within a working environment. However this is the first year the initiative will encompass all of the programmes available within the University of Aberdeen's School of Medical Sciences.
"From Pharmacology and Biochemistry to Genetics and Sports Sciences, students from each individual degree programme will be invited to apply for the scheme which involves a wide and diverse selection of companies from across the globe."
Throughout the period of their industrial placements, students will remain registered with the University and will benefit from the continued support of University staff.
At the end of the placement, students will return to the University to complete the honours year of their degree.
Professor McCaig continues: "The placement initiative aims to enhance the overall experience of University for the students involved by allowing them to develop their skills within a work place environment.
"Aside from the obvious financial benefits, working within industry allows students to significantly enhance and develop their studies. Genuine work experience provides students with the opportunity to apply their studies to actual, real life situations and the advantages of this are often reflected in final degree results.
"The majority of companies involved in the placement initiative offer students the chance to work in state of the art laboratories with excellent equipment. Whilst some organisations offer training in areas such as IT and presentation techniques which help to broaden the student's overall skills set.
"In a climate where nurturing talent for the future is crucial, positive feedback from employers confirms that they also benefit hugely from the year long placement scheme as it allows sufficient time to assess whether students would be suited to a graduate position within their company."
For more information on the School of Medical Sciences placement contact Dr Allison Carrington, Industrial Placement Coordinator on (01224) 551934 or email href="mailto:a.carrington@abdn.ac.uk">a.carrington@abdn.ac.uk</a>Â Â </p>