The Diploma in Professional Practice
The DPP programme enables students who have no grasp of the real world to be involved in practice on a professional level. The student we have had from Derby University has been very enthusiastic and it has been a pleasure and benefit to the company to have him here on this placement. In terms of the industry, the DPP programme is very positive and has no end of benefits.
”What is the DPP?
- It's a diploma primarily for students on placement between their second and third years of the degree. It gives recognition to the learning you'll gain in the workplace, and the year you spend developing skills and gaining experience
- You'll need to complete 38 weeks worth of full time employment, and submit work for two modules
Which courses offer the DPP as part of a placement?
Click here for a full list of courses that have the DPP as an option, when on work placement.
Why do the DPP?
- It will add to your work experience
- It will help you to stand out from the crowd when you're looking for a job
- Your placement company may offer you a job upon graduation
- You'll gain fresh ideas for final year dissertation
- It will give you an added qualification to put on your CV
- You can exchange ideas with students on different programmes, and so you'll have valuable networking opportunities
What do other students think of the DPP?
- Students have said that by being organised and staying in contact with their tutor, they've been able to really enjoy the DPP
- They get the support they need, which enables them to set achievable objectives during the year
What do employers think about the DPP?
- They like the structure and support that the DPP offers for placement students
- They like having the opportunity to give feedback to the University about their placement student's development
How much work will I have to do?
- There are two modules - each with two assignments.
- Two deadlines are in December, two are in the following May.
- Each module represents 50% of assessed coursework at Level 5 with 30 credits
Module one: Applied Professional Practice
This module requires students to record their work experience in the form of:
- A monthly journal
- A report reviewing the work environment and their progress within it
- Two tutor visits
Module two: Contemporary Issues in Professional Practice
This module as a whole looks outside the immediate confines of the workplace. It includes:
- A written document looking at different external issues which affect business and thereby the students' work
- A presentation reflecting these external issues using programmes such as Powerpoint, Myspace or YouTube
Although the assignments are primarily written it is important that the you use different media to communicate your ideas.
If English isn't your first language, or if you have any special learning requirements, you'll be given extra support.
What next?
To find out more about studying the DPP, please contact Angela Reilly:
T: 01332 593216
