Information for Students

Work Ready

Employers want students who can readily fit into and work well in an organisation. This means that they want graduates who have the capability to communicate effectively with others, plan and organise their work, solve problems, work in teams, use technology effectively, be committed to lifelong learning, be able to manage themselves and show initiative and creativity.


The aims and objectives of Work Integrated Learning (WIL) are twofold:

  • to integrate theory and practice by applying your academic learning to the workplace
  • to develop graduate capabilities that enable you to perform effectively in an organisation

Your WIL experience may be gained through:

  • selected courses which specifically link your academic work to industry; or
  • a paid or voluntary co-op placement


WIL Enrolment and Fees

From 2012, students commencing the four year degree programs in Economics and Finance, Marketing, Accounting, International Business, and Logistics and Supply Chain Management will be able to fulfill the compulsory WIL component of their degree in a one year work placement (paid employment of at least 40 weeks duration). This is commonly referred to as the co-op year. The fees for this option are set at 25% of the yearly tuition fee.

WIL Preparation Course

All students enrolled in WIL are required to participate in the WIL preparation workshops organised by their School. These workshops are an important part of the learning and planning process and assist students in optimising their effectiveness in securing a work placement and performing well during their placements.

Co-op Placement


The major aims of co-operative education are to:

  • apply and practice, in an organisation, many of the concepts, theories and techniques studied in the first two years of your degree;
  • develop your graduate capabilities such as effective oral and written communication, teamwork, planning and organising, thinking creatively, problem solving and life-long learning
  • gain experiences that you can bring back into the classroom for discussion and analyses
  • advance your general awareness of business practice as a basis for final year studies and ongoing career aspirations.

Students are expected to:

  • identify the relationships between various course disciplines and practical applications;
  • acquire a knowledge of the organisation / industry in which you are working;
  • participate in the culture of the organisation
  • define your individual role in the organisation and wider business community;
  • recognise the role of ethics in business
  • reflect on your workplace performance

Further Information

Other examples of WIL
Other examples of Work Integrated Learning in the College of Business

Industry Projects
Industry-based projects are generally conducted in the context of a course devoted to Work Integrated Learning. They may range from market or other business research projects…

Information for employers
Find out how your organisation can take part in RMIT Business Work Integrated Leaning initiatives.

Contact Us
Contact details of the WIL staff.