Introduction
Work-integrated learning (WIL) takes your education to new heights by seamlessly merging classroom theories with real world applications. This transformative approach empowers you to not only learn but also thrive in a practical setting.
AT NSCC, WIL isn’t just a concept-it’s an opportunity for you to gain invaluable work experience that sets you apart. You’ll collaborate with seasoned industry experts and community partners, honing your skills while making meaningful contributions. This mix of classroom learning, and real-life work experience will boost your job readiness and make your education more exciting and practical.
Work-integrated Learning involves a three-way partnership between the student, employer and NSCC, and each party plays a critical role in ensuring the success of the partnerships.
This guide provides you with the details you require to get ready for your work experience. At NSCC, we’ve structured Work-Integrated Learning into five broad areas. These are meant to get you ready for your professional career or occupational field of study and give you the skills and experiences that will shape your future:
At NSCC, we have five expansive work experience categories tailored to prepare students for their future careers in their chosen professional or occupational fields:
Field Experiences
Students engage in a diverse array of work-related experiences, which may be either paid or unpaid. These field experiences are closely linked to specific courses and are mandatory for graduation. The frequency, duration and timing of a field experience may differ depending on the NSCC program. However, the most typical field experience spans approximately 175 hours, lasting for about 5 weeks, and takes place during the third semester (April-May)
Co-operative Education (co-op)
Enabling students to “earn while they learn”, the co-op program provides a unique opportunity to acquire invaluable experiences as they advance towards their second year of studies, graduation, and eventual employment in their desired career path. Co-op placements offer paid full-time employment, lasting 12-16 weeks, (420-640 hours) depending on the program, strategically scheduled between the students’ first and second year of study. This immersive work experience enriches their educational journey and equips them with practical skills and industry insights.
Internships
NSCC offers two specialized programs, International Business and Ocean’s Technology, which incorporate a valuable and mandatory internship component. Internships are paid and occur during the final semester, lasting between 14-16 weeks of full-time employment. These internships are an important part of a student’s studies, giving them practical experience and a chance to use their skills in real-life situations before they enter their chosen careers.
Professional Practice
Unpaid work placements are mandatory for obtaining a professional license or designation in various fields, including clinical placement, practicums, preceptorships and more. These hands-on experiences provide students with practical training and the opportunity to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world settings. Such placements are essential for developing the necessary skills and competence required for a successful career in their chosen professions.
Sea Time
Allows students to apply the knowledge and skills essential for working aboard a vessel. These opportunities may be paid or unpaid, with varying durations and terms depending on the program, encompassing fall, winter, spring, or summer. Several marine programs at NSCC have sea time requirements, governed by guidelines established by Transport Canada. Sea time can be fulfilled by gaining experience on both Canadian and international merchant ships.
At NSCC, our focus is on your learning journey. These strategies we use for work experiences are designed with your learning needs in mind, above all else. While we aim to offer industry experiences, we understand that there may be situations where employer partners are limited. In such cases, we’ll ensure you receive an equivalent learning experience and the support you need to grow professionally.
