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Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) is an educational model within experiential learning that complements academic studies with practical, real-world experiences. This method allows students to apply theoretical classroom knowledge to a workplace or practice setting, enhancing their learning and preparing them for professional careers. WIL opportunities (including internships, co-op, apprenticeships, etc.) involve partnerships among academic institutions, host organizations/employers, and students, ensuring that learning objectives are met and providing industry exposure. By integrating work experiences with academic learning, WIL helps students develop essential skills, build professional networks, and enhance their employability. It is a way to bridge the gap between classroom education and the demands of the modern workplace. We emphasize experiences that provide students industry exposure that directly relate to their career goals, promote progressive skill development in the workplace, and compensate students appropriately.
Cooperative Education (Co-op) is a structured method of combining classroom-based education with practical work experience. A cooperative education experience, commonly known as a “co-op”, provides academic credit for structured job experience. Co-op experiences are either full-time (40 hours per week) alternating periods (semester, quarter) of work and school or part-time (20 hours per week) combining work and school during the same time period. Co-op experiences are paid, supervised by a professional who has followed the same career path of the student and students complete more than one assignment (two or more) with progressive levels of responsibility.
Internship is an experience involving student’s working in their expected career field, either during a semester or over the summer. Internships may be paid or unpaid and may or may not carry academic credit. Internships are typically one-time experiences. Internships are typically connected to an academic program with course requirements designed and monitored by faculty. Internships generally have related learning outcomes and academic assignments required.
Apprenticeship, according to the U.S. Department of Labor, is an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway where employers can develop and prepare their future workforce. It combines paid work experience, classroom instruction, and a portable, nationally-recognized credential[1]. This model helps workers gain the skills needed for highly-skilled careers and supports employers in building a skilled workforce.
For individuals working in this space, CEIA developed a list of practitioner competencies. In the coming years, these competencies will include further definition for training and assessment.
Dr. Richard Robles (University of Cincinnati) produced a chart comparing the three forms of work-integrated learning. This chart was presented at the 2025 CEIA Academy in Vail, CO.
Co-op | Internship | Apprenticeship | |
---|---|---|---|
Time | Full-time or Part-time over the course of an academic term | Can be full-time or part-time, short term | Full-time with classroom instruction |
Industry / Discipline Related | Must be related to student's academic program | Not necessarily connected to student's academic program | Extensive hands-on experience in industry |
On-The-Job Learning | Emphasis on learning and growth | Emphasis on practical work experience | Comprehensive, combining work experience with classroom instruction |
Pay | Paid | Paid or Unpaid | Paid |
Duration | Based on the academic term, alternating between work and classes | From a few weeks to the length of the academic term | Long term (1 - 4 years) |
Frequency | Rotating, multiple terms (1 - 3 semesters) | One time | Long term (1 - 4 years) |
Supervision | By industry representatives (on the job) and by faculty (course) | By faculty (course only) | By experienced mentors and instructors |
Diven by | Academic institutions and employers | Academic programs and employers | Industry standards and employers |
Academic Credit | Required by the academic program; work experience earns academic credit | ONLY IF overseen by faculty and allowed to count towards teh degree; not always required as part of a degree | Required by training program; work experience earns academic credit |
Industry Exposure | Entry-level to experienced depth and breadth | Entry-level breadth | High with extensive hands-on experience in the industry |
Job Prospect | Possible pathway towards a permanent job after graduation | May or may not offer pathway to a permanent job after graduation | Often leads to employment in the trade or profession |
On-the-Job Mentorship | Strong mentorship programs | Varies | Provided by experienced mentors |
Research |
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Please cite accordingly.
Robles, R.A. (2025). Defining our work. Retrieved from https://www.ceiainc.org/knowledge-zone/defining-our-work/
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