Welcome to the World of Work-Integrated Learning
Work-integrated learning (WIL) is a formalized partnership between a student, their academic institution, and an organization. At VIU, this partnership is facilitated by the Centre for Experiential Learning (CEL), and it involves a process in which students apply their academic knowledge within a workplace setting. As you continue reading, you will learn more about the benefits of WIL for both students and employers, how you can get involved in WIL, and discover captivating stories from past WIL participants. We hope you find the information you're looking for, and if you leave with questions unanswered, please contact us
Danielle Johnsrude, Director, Centre for Experiential Learning and Student Engagement
Add an Internship to Your Program
If you're looking to gain valuable work experience that bridges your passions, strengths, and field of study, then consider adding an internship to your VIU experience. Some programs have built in internship and co-op components. If you're unsure or know that you're ready to take your learning outside of the classroom, then click below and begin the process of adding an internship to your academic journey.
Benefits of a WIL Experience
Participating in a WIL experience has advantages for students and employers. Facilitating mutually beneficial experiences for both parties is a top priority.
For Students
- WIL experiences allow students to ‘try-on’ a job to see if they like it. It is an opportunity to compare what they ‘think’ the job might be like compared to what it actually is
- Students can receive mentoring, feedback, and actively apply their education
- Through WIL experiences, students will meet numerous industry professional and grow their professional network
- Students participating in a WIL experience develop confidence in their abilities and recognize the value of their knowledge
- During a WIL experience, students will be exposed to the range of career opportunities in the field
- After completing a WIL experience, students will have an industry reference for future job applications
For Employers
- Gain access to a skilled talent pool with new thinking and ideas based on emerging research
- Recruit graduates in the future, reducing your costs and risks during the recruitment of competent and motivated hires
- Increase your business exposure by investing in the future of the next generation of workers
- Influence the industry skills being taught by becoming a partner in learning
Students
Add an Internship
Discover how you can add an internship to your program, and bridge your passions and academic knowledge through meaningful work
Currently Supported Programs
Discover which programs readily offer WIL components and learn more about what that experience may look like for you
Student FAQ
See a list of commonly asked questions with answers below
Employers
Why hire VIU
Discover why hiring a VIU student makes sense for your organization
Attend an Event
Register for upcoming events and connect with students directly
Discover Resources
Learn about funding opportunities, best hiring practices, interview tips, and more
Create a Tailored Event
Want to connect with specific students? Follow a few simple steps and let's collaborate to make it happen
Post an Opportunity
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First-time Users of the Experience Hub
Not yet registered in the Experience Hub? Follow the link below to get started
Experience Hub
Explore our online career portal for VIU students, alumni, and employers