A sandwich course, also known as a sandwich degree, is an academic degree or higher education course that involves practical work experience in addition to academic study. The work experience is often referred to as an industrial placement or internship, and it is typically related to the industry or field of study that the student is pursuing. The term "sandwich" was used in a 1950 National Advisory Council on Education for Industry and Commerce report on possible developments within the further education sector. During the early 1950s, sandwich course proposals were formulated involving the close association of industry and colleges, encouraging movement of students and researchers between academia and industry.
Sandwich courses are widespread in France, and also exist in other countries such as Australia, Denmark, India, Norway, and several countries in French-influenced Africa. There are two types of sandwich degrees: "thick" or "thin". A "thick" sandwich course is a continuous placement that generally lasts a year, while a "thin" sandwich course is made up of two or more placements. Placements can take as long as necessary, but most placements last for a year.
Sandwich courses are optional and depend on the course and university. Studying a sandwich course provides practical experience in the industry related to the course, which can be an advantage for students seeking employment after graduation.
