Work Integrated Learning (WIL) connects classroom learning with real-world experience. At Bow Valley College, WIL is built into our healthand career programs so you graduate with practical experience that prepares you for the workforce.
Unlike other institutions where work-experience opportunities may be optional or limited to certain programs, Bow Valley College includes WIL as a mandatory part of every program. This ensures all students can gain meaningful industry experience during their studies.
Through WIL, you may work directly with employers, community organizations, or industry partners while completing projects or placements related to your field of study.
All career programs at Bow Valley College include a WIL component.
Programs that do not include WIL are:
Finding a WIL placement is flexible, with options that letyou choose an experience that works for you. You can:
Placement options vary by program and are subject to approval and availability. See your program page for the requirements needed before starting your WIL placement.
Work Integrated Learning (WIL) connects classroom learning with real-world experience. At Bow Valley College, WIL is built into our health and career programs so you graduate with practical experience that prepares you for the workforce.
Unlike other institutions where work-experience opportunities may be optional or limited to certain programs, Bow Valley College includes WIL as a mandatory part of every program. This ensures all students can gain meaningful industry experience during their studies.
Through WIL, you may work directly with employers, community organizations, or industry partners while completing projects or placements related to your field of study.
All career programs at Bow Valley College include a WIL component.
Programs that do not include WIL are:
Finding a WIL placement is flexible, with options that let you choose an experience that works for you. You can:
Placement options vary by program and are subject to approval and availability. See your program page for the requirements needed before starting your WIL placement.
You might be wondering what the difference is between WIL and a practicum (or other traditional work placements/experiences). These opportunities are part of WIL, and there are many different types of WIL available. The type of WIL you’ll experience will depend on your chosen program.
The different types of WIL offered by Bow Valley College areas follows:
Students gain paid, practical work experience directly with an employer while learning under the guidance of an experienced professional.
Students work on real-world projects for organizations, often acting as service providers or consultants. These projects can include business operations, design work, research, or community-based initiatives.
Common in health-related programs, clinical placements provide supervised, hands-on learning experiences. Students are closely guided by college faculty due to the nature of the work and associated responsibilities.
Field placements provide intensive, practical experience in a workplace related to your program. These unpaid placements are supervised by the employer and monitored by the college.
Practicums provide supervised work experience with an experienced or licensed professional. These placements help students develop the practical skills needed for professional certification or licensure.
Service learning combines classroom instruction with community engagement. Students work with community organizations to address real challenges while applying what they’ve learned in their studies.
