"Half of the cardiac physiologists working at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, myself included, are past Swinburne graduates who all completed the Professional Placements Program (formerly Industry Based Learning).

I spent my placement in Tasmania working at the Launceston General Hospital in Biomedical Engineering. The placement was a great learning opportunity and opened my eyes to many potential career choices within the healthcare field."

But when she finished her placement in Tasmania, Shannon’s involvement with the program wasn’t over — she's now the placement supervisor at the Royal Melbourne Hospital.

In this role, Shannon, an advocate and supporter of the Swinburne program, is proud to help students take those first steps along their chosen career paths.

  • "This program is a great way to recruit future employees who already have 12 months work experience as new graduates. It’s great to see the students grow their skills and confidence over the course of their 12-month placement."

    Shannon Watt , Chief Cardiac Physiologist, The Royal Melbourne Hospital

"We love having the opportunity to promote cardiac physiology to future graduates, and for us the most rewarding part of the program is seeing the students go on to have successful careers in the field."

The Royal Melbourne Hospital has been a partner with Swinburne for over 21 years. Shannon is quick to point out that the hospital has gone on to employ 75 per cent of their former placement students.

"I'd encourage other workplaces to offer a placement. The program is definitely cost-effective, but the best part is the students - they’re enthusiastic and excited to learn!"

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