Saunders, J. (2025) ‘Built-in, not bolt-on: embedding employability in postgraduate study. A Film and Television placement module case study’

Abstract

This case study reflects on the embedded ‘Placement and Training’ module that has been an integral part of the MA in Film and Television: Research and Production at University of Birmingham for almost three decades. Although this postgraduate taught degree has a specific vocational focus, its holistic approach of blending theory and practice with a range of core skills (that can be deemed to fall under the broad banner of ‘employability’), may prove useful in informing other disciplines’ approaches to equipping their students for entering the workplace after graduation. The case study contextualizes the author’s position as both former student and professional services employee and provides an overview of the module; including reflections on its development since 2012, insights into some of the challenges inherent in working with external partners, and the positive impacts of such curriculum-embedded opportunities.

Keywords: higher education employability, work placements, graduate outcomes, vocational postgraduate education, employability skills, curriculum design

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