Research to help develop an Equitable Year in Industry Programme

The project aims to identify specific barriers faced by Physics Year in Industry students, in particular, from underrepresented groups, in applying for placements

In order to improve the careers support we provide students, the University of York WRIPA Team is running a research project funded by the University of York Inclusive Learning Fund with match funding from the School of Physics Engineering and Technology. The research will be conducted with the assistance of two Research Interns and will involve surveying approximately 100 undergraduate students with around 15 in person follow up interviews.

Through this in-depth quantitative and qualitative inquiry, the project aims to identify the specific barriers faced by Physics Year in Industry students, in particular, from underrepresented groups to successfully apply for placements. By better understanding these personal barriers, we can develop equitable interventions and improvements to existing careers support services.

Recommendations resulting from this project will inform evidence-based strategies to create an inclusive and equitable careers support environment aligned with the University of York Physics Year in Industry programme, which better responds to the individual needs of all students.