Work-Integrated Learning

Most programs at SAIT have at least one Work-Integrated Learning experience built-in to the curriculum. Many programs require the student to complete one or more Work-Integrated Learning experiences in order to graduate.

In some programs, it is not a requirement, but students will choose to participate to gain a competitive advantage when they begin their career search.

Benefits of participating in Work-Integrated Learning

By partnering with us on Work-Integrated Learning experiences, you gain access to diversely talented and highly motivated students, who bring new ideas, fresh perspectives, and enthusiasm to the workplace.

Participating in Work-Integrated Learning also provides organizations with:

• short-term, additional employees to support business needs, with potential funding support allowances
• opportunities to source candidates and evaluate a potential long-term employee before committing
• leadership/supervisory training opportunities for existing employees.

Finally, participating in Work-Integrated Learning offers our students the opportunity to:

• network with professionals from the industry and gain perspective on career paths
• apply classroom learning and develop valuable workplace skills in authentic career settings
• explore different career opportunities
• build resumés by adding relevant work experience
• receive guidance and assistance with job search
• potentially earn income.

By participating in Work-Integrated Learning experiences, you’ll be helping to shape the future of the talent pipeline in your industry.

Working with SAIT students

SAIT students are highly motivated and career focused. They are:

• undertaking competitive programs with high demands
• eager learners, comfortable with feedback and reflective practices
• developing cutting-edge skills with solid, technical foundations
• creative innovators and entrepreneurs with the desire to change the world.

Many SAIT students have previous work experience and education they are keen to build on.

When can you bring a student onboard?

Students become available for Work-Integrated Learning placements throughout the year. However, most of our opportunities align with our four-month terms:

• January - April
• May - August
• September - December

Where does Work-Integrated Learning take place?

Work experiences

Work experiences can range from one to 16 months, but are most frequently four-months in duration. This encompasses apprenticeship, co-op, internship, practicum and field study, depending on the program.

Usually, the student will be hired by the industry partner and work under the supervision of an employee of that organization at their site (remote/hybrid work can fit in many situations). These can be paid or unpaid opportunities.

Industry projects

Ranging from one to four months in length, these projects allow a group of students to work to solve a business problem for a client (the industry partner) during their class.

The work takes place largely on campus, under the supervision of a SAIT instructor. These are unpaid projects.

Capstone projects

At SAIT, a capstone project is the culminating, hands-on experience, where students apply the whole of their knowledge to tackle real-world challenges, often in partnership with industry leaders.

Ranging from 12 to 16 weeks, depending on the program, it involves research, development, collaboration, and a final presentation to showcase the skills and solutions honed throughout their studies.

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How to support WIL students in your work place

Orient the student to their position and your organization by:

• introducing them to your organization including understanding key roles, departments, and goals and vision for the organization 
• reviewing their position, responsibilities and accountabilities
• Providing any necessary health and safety training 
• discussing things such as preferred communication methods, dress code, time off etc.  
• giving an introduction to team members they’ll be working with  
• be available to answer questions and ensure successful completion of tasks.

Provide mentorship and guidance to the student by: 

• supporting their growth, development and confidence
• giving timely feedback and direction on how to improve
• provide opportunities to gain valuable organization and industry specific knowledge and build professional connections 
• share and discuss ways you and your team achieve a healthy work-life balance and what this might look like for the student 
• being open to hearing what the student is learning in the classroom about best practices
• supporting skill development and improvement
• guiding opportunities to connect with,  learn from and hear other’s career paths within their team, other departments and leadership.

Work-Integrated Learning opportunities by program area