What is Work-based Learning?

Work-based learning includes internships, mentoring, and apprenticeship — it's any way you might test-drive a career before committing to it.

Work-based learning is your chance to discover things you can't learn in a classroom. Get inside information about the career you're interested in, or simply get a taste of what it's really like on the job.

Why choose work-based learning?

Benefits to students.
Work-based learning can help students improve academically, understand the relevance of things they learn in the classroom, and explore career options.

Benefits to schools.
Work-based learning can improve student motivation, attendance, and graduation rates. It can also improve the school's relationship with the community.

Benefits to employers.
Work-based learning helps employers reduce their recruitment and training costs, and hire better-prepared employees who understand workplace expectations.

What's stopping you?

Don't let any of these common myths about work-based learning keep you from trying it out:

I'm too old (or too young).
There are at least a dozen different opportunities for work-based learning, with choices for adults as well as youth (generally aged 16 and older).

I won't get paid.
Some opportunities are unpaid or volunteer, but many apprenticeships and certain internships come with a salary.

I'm a student and I'm already too busy.
Students can often earn course credit for work-based learning, so you may be able to do two things at once.

I'd have to commit to something long-term.
Some work-based learning opportunities are formal and last for years; but just as many are informal and can last only a few hours.

I'm already working so what's the point?
Think outside the box about work-based learning. Even if you're already working in your dream job, you may still benefit from experiences like a mentorship or a practicum.