Architecture and Built Environment
The career-ready placement requirements for students in our architecture and built environment programs are as follows. Please note that, within construction management, career-ready placement experiences are referred to as Industrial Experience (IE).
| Program | Commencement | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Design (Architecture) | 2023 or later | Complete 140 hours of placement experiences or activities through the course ARBE3030 Work Integrated Learning in the Built Environment. |
| Bachelor of Design (Architecture) | Prior to 2023 | Requirements vary. Refer to your program handbook and Program Planner for more information or contact Program Advice. |
| Bachelor of Construction Management (Building) (Honours) | 2023 or later | Complete 12 weeks Industrial Experience. This will include 4 weeks/140 hours of placement experiences or activities through ARBE3030 Work Integrated Learning in the Built Environment. |
| Bachelor of Construction Management (Building) (Honours) | Prior to 2023 | Complete 12 weeks Industrial Experience. If you have elective space in your program, you may be eligible to enrol in ARBE3030 Work Integrated Learning in the Built Environment and count the 4 weeks/140 hours of placement experiences or activities within this course toward your total 12 weeks of Industrial Experience. |
| Postgraduate programs | All years | N/A |
Additional information about the placement requirements for the above programs can be found on the College of Engineering, Science and Environment’s Professional Experience website.
Within ARBE3030, you will do one of the following:
- Placement: Immerse yourself in a real-world environment by completing a supervised placement of at least 140 hours. You’ll take charge of finding relevant placement opportunities, coordinating with employers, and securing approval from your Course Coordinator. You can complete all your placement hours in one continuous block, or distribute your hours among different employers if needed. This hands-on experience not only enhances your practical skills but also boosts your employability, expands your professional network, and provides valuable industry insights and mentorship.
- Project / Groupwork: Tackle a real-world problem through a collaborative group project, over at least 140 hours. You’ll work on a brief provided by an external industry client, gaining invaluable hands-on experience and mentorship from industry professionals.
Industrial Experience (IE) offers diverse opportunities to gain hands-on experience, build professional networks and enhance your employability. IE can be a combination of different experiences rather than a single, continuous placement. You have the flexibility to fulfill your IE requirements through various opportunities, such as multiple industry placements, relevant employment, or even study abroad programs.
You will be responsible for seeking out IE opportunities in a field related to your studies. Start exploring IE options early in your studies to meet graduation requirements and make the most of this invaluable learning experience. Visit Sourcing your experience for tips on how to find opportunities.
For guidance on organising your IE, refer to the relevant Industrial Experience Manual. Remember, all IE applications must be submitted for pre-approval in Sonia Online before starting, to ensure your IE meets your degree requirements and that you are covered by the appropriate insurance. Approval is at the discretion of the IE Coordinator and is not guaranteed. Additionally, you will need to liaise with your host employer/s to complete the Industrial Experience Application form available in Sonia Online.
Below are some of the different kinds of Industrial Experience you may undertake:
- Industry placement / employment: You can complete all or some of your IE in an industry placement (paid or unpaid) or through relevant employment. Please note that if you do an unpaid placement, you will be covered by the University of Newcastle’s insurance once the IE application has been approved. If you are completing paid IE (that is, if you are employed by the organisation), you are not covered by university insurance and must confirm insurance coverage with the employer.
- Prior work experience: You may apply to have recent work experience counted towards some or all your IE total requirements, provided it was undertaken in a suitable and relevant profession.
- Study abroad program and overseas Industrial Experience: All or part of your IE can be completed overseas, provided the experience is relevant. All students considering undertaking an overseas internship or placement should research and select an experience that suits their needs and interests. The University of Newcastle works with third-party providers to connect students with relevant overseas opportunities. There is also funding available to support international exchange. Visit Global Experience to learn more.
You may be able to complete your placement overseas. Check out the opportunities available for your program below.
The Professional Experience Unit (PEU) for the College of Engineering, Science and Environment can provide advice and support regarding Sonia Online, the placement management system, as well as processes and documentation requirements.
Email: CESE-PEU@newcastle.edu.au
Phone: (02) 4921 7302
Location: W357, Callaghan Campus (interactive campus map)
Face-to-face and virtual appointments with the PEU are available at both Callaghan and Ourimbah campuses. For more information, visit their website.
The Careers Service can support you with finding industrial experience or placement opportunities. Visit Sourcing your experience for more information.
If you are having trouble finding or securing an industrial experience or placement opportunity, please seek advice from the following:
- For B Construction Management (Building) (Honours): Contact your IE Coordinator.
- For B Design (Architecture): Reach out to your Course Coordinator. You can find their contact details on the ARBE3030 Canvas site.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.