Types of WIL Placements
At NAIT, there are several types of WIL placements. These experiences may differ in length, pre-requisites and an assortment of both paid and unpaid experiences. Some of these experiences are mandatory and are required for industry accreditations, and some are optional as an opportunity to gain industry experience and practice program outcomes.
Co-op
A Co-op provides experience in a workplace setting related to the student's field of study. The number of required work terms varies by program; however, the time spent in work terms must be at least 30% of the time spent in academic study for programs over 2 years in length, and 25% of time for programs 2 years and shorter in length.
Clinical Placement
A Clinical Placement involves work experience under the supervision of an experienced registered or licensed professional (e.g. preceptor) in any discipline that requires practice-based work experience for professional licensure or certification. Practica are generally unpaid and the work is done in a supervised setting.
Field Placement
A Field Placement provides students with an intensive part-time or short-term hands-on practical experience in a setting relevant to their subject of study. Field placements may not require supervision of a registered or licensed professional and the completed hours are not required for professional certification.
Mandatory Professional Practices
Mandatory Professional Practices include work hours needed to obtain a license to practice or a professional designation or to register with a regulatory college/professional association.
Everyone benefits from WIL experiences
Work Integrated Learning (WIL) connects students and employers, offering students practical experience and essential skills for career success, while providing employers access to fresh talent and opportunities to evaluate potential hires.
Student Benefits
Benefits of learning through WIL
- Understand more about career opportunities, expectations and requirements of the professional field.
- Apply classroom knowledge in a real-world environment, increase opportunities for employment after graduation.
- Create networking opportunities in your chosen industry.
- Develop and improve communication, interpersonal and employment skills.
- Practice job placement skills including job search, resume preparation and interviewing.
- Possibility of financial benefits if the placement is paid.
- International students will gain Canadian work experience.
Employer Benefits
Benefits of hiring NAIT students
- Creates opportunities to engage in the educational process, assisting the institution in ensuring industry needs are met.
- Allows employers access to fresh, new ideas from students.
- Allows employers to address short-term staffing needs for special projects or peak season relief.
- Employers can evalulate students for potential future employment.
- Provide employees with an opportunity to gain leadership experience.
- Projects a positive image from an organization – students come back to campus and become goodwill ambassadors after their placement.
International students
For international students, a WIL placement can provide valuable opportunities to gain Canadian work experience. However, a Co-op Work Permit is required for international students to participate in a WIL experience. Applying and receiving this permit can take time so please apply as soon as possible. To learn more, visit nait.ca/immigration.