Hire a Student

Work Placement FAQ's 

1. What is a student work placement?

A student work placement, also known as an internship, is a structured period of practical, hands-on experience that forms an integral part of a degree programme at the University of Galway. It allows students to apply their academic learning in a real-world setting, while contributing meaningfully to an organisation. Placements vary in length depending on the course and can range from a few weeks to several months. 

Benefits to employers include: 

• Access to skilled, motivated students with up-to-date academic knowledge 
• A fresh perspective and new ideas 
• The opportunity to identify future talent for your organisation 
• An additional resource during busy periods or for specific projects 

2. How does the placement process work?

Our annual Work Placement Brochure outlines over 50 degree programmes that include an internship or placement component. Each programme has a dedicated Placement Officer who manages the process and supports both students and employers. 

To hire a student: 

• Contact the relevant Placement Officer 
• Provide a role description 
• The role will be advertised internally to eligible students 
• Employers receive a shortlist of student CVs 
• Interview your preferred candidates 

 It’s a simple, supported process with guidance at every step. 

3. How should I make an offer of placement to a student?

All work placement offers must be made via the Placement Officer. Once a firm offer of work placement has been made to a student, that student's name is removed from all other work placement positions. Following the offer of work placement, the organisation will send a contract directly to the student. 

4. Is there a cost involved in taking on a student?

There is no fee to partner with the University of Galway. Employers are encouraged to pay students minimum wage or above. While in some areas students can undertake unpaid placements, we strongly encourage employers to offer at least the minimum wage or a stipend, as a best practice and to attract top talent. 

5. Am I expected to hire the student after the placement ends?

There is no obligation to offer employment beyond placement. However, many employers use placements as a pipeline for future hires. A strong performance during the placement often leads to offers of summer work, part-time roles, or graduate positions. 

6. Who is responsible for training the student?

As part of your team, students should be given an initial induction and relevant training for their role. This allows them to contribute effectively and gain valuable insights into the working environment. The University provides support throughout the placement, but day-to-day guidance is provided by the employer. 

 7. What kind of work should the student do?

Students should be assigned meaningful tasks that align with their field of study. This ensures the experience is beneficial for both the student and your organisation. Many employers find that students make real contributions to ongoing projects, research, and innovation. 

 8. What about Confidentiality?

At the beginning of the work placement, it is essential that the organisation makes clear to the student the areas of work regarded as confidential and any other specific requirements it may wish to be respected. Usually, a confidentiality clause is incorporated into the student's contract. Students are considered employees of the organisation, and are subject to the organisation’s disciplinary policy and procedures. These should be outlined to students at the start of work placement. 

 9. Can students on a Visa take part in placement?

International students (non-EEA) studying in Ireland on Stamp 2 permissions can work part-time (20 hours/week) during term and full-time (40 hours/week) during specific holiday periods and full-time as part of an accredited work placement.  For a comprehensive guide for employers hiring non-EEA students in Ireland click Here 

 10. What support does the University provide during the placement?

Throughout the placement, both the student and employer will have access to ongoing support from a dedicated University Placement Officer and an Academic Mentor. They check in regularly and are available to assist with any queries or challenges that may arise. We also offer a range of services for students who need supports or reasonable accommodations due to the impact of a disability, ongoing physical or mental health condition, or a specific learning difficulty. These supports are provided through the Disability Support Service (DSS) 

 11. Is the student assessed during the placement?

Students may be required to complete reflective assignments such as a learning journal or a final report. Employers may be asked to provide brief feedback or complete a short evaluation form, which contributes to the student’s academic grade. 

 12. What if an issue arises during the placement?

If any concerns emerge, we recommend first having an open conversation with the student. If the issue persists, the Placement Officer and Academic Mentor are on hand to support a resolution quickly and professionally. 

 13. How can I get more involved on campus?

Check out our Employer Engagement Brochure and learn more about boosting your brand on campus