The Diploma in Professional Studies

To obtain the DPS on graduation, the student must satisfactorily complete:

A minimum of 35 weeks activity (excluding holidays) of either a 'substantive' nature i.e., of graduate level or 'supplementary' activity such as online learning, voluntary work etc. A minimum of 25 weeks should be of a 'substantive' nature.

A series of three, 250-word, reflective STAR diary entries on the placement experience. Two diary entries to be submitted two weeks before the second placement tutor visit, and the one remaining entry is submitted after.

A poster presentation to first- and second-year students providing information and reflection on the work placement experience upon return to University.

A competent performance of duties whilst on placement; maintaining good conduct and upholding the reputation and standards of both the company and the University. This is evidenced through two employer appraisals during the placement, one to be completed and discussed with the Placement Tutor at the second visit, the second to be submitted at the end of the student’s placement.

Students undertaking the ‘6+6’ who are combining a professional placement with a single semester of study exchange will have different assessment criteria. Please contact the Placements and Study Exchange Team if you require more information about this.