Schools & Programs  

Work Integrated Learning

Gain valuable work experience during your NAIT program

Work Integrated Learning (WIL) is a form of experiential learning that integrates academic studies with relevant work-based experiences, directly tied to the curriculum and part of an approved program of study.

WIL at NAIT offers unique and valuable education opportunities, giving students the chance to learn on the job skills and knowledge, gain critical work experience and gain vital connections to employers that will benefit them in their careers.

View programs with WIL Experiences

Information for Employers

NAIT is always looking for industry partners: If you're looking to hire a NAIT student for a Work Integrated Learning placement, become a student mentor or partner with NAIT's Experiental Learning team for other kinds of opportunities, find more information here or post your position to Career Connect.


“I would highly recommend doing the Co-op Program as it will allow the students to engage in a real-life work environment and field professionals. This practical experience together with academic learning is highly beneficial, providing a strong foundation for our future careers.”

- Maria C., Instrumentation Engineering Technology Student

Benefits of a WIL Placement

  • Understand more about career opportunities, expectations and requirements of the professional field.
  • Apply classroom knowledge in a real-world environment, increase opportunities for employment after graduation.
  • Create networking opportunities in your chosen industry.
  • Develop and improve communication, interpersonal and employment skills. 
  • Practice job placement skills including job search, resume preparation and interviewing.
  • Possibility of  financial benefits if the placement is paid.
  • International students will gain Canadian work experience.

Types of WIL Placements

Programs at NAIT have different types of WIL placements. These experiences may differ in length, pre-requisites and an assortment of both paid and unpaid experiences. Some of these experiences are mandatory and are required for industry accreditations, and some are optional as an opportunity to gain industry experience and practice program outcomes.

Information for Current Students

To learn more about WIL at NAIT, talk to your instructors, watch for information around campus and check MyNAIT for upcoming information sessions. Find a position for your work placement through Career Connect or consult with Career Advising to learn more about how to apply to a job. For detailed WIL questions, reach out to WIL@NAIT.ca for asssitance.

Job Postings

Find career opportunities with NAIT Career Connect, our student job board. Get access to a list of WIL, full-time, and part-time positions posted by employers for NAIT students.

Career Advising

Connect with one of our advisors to find your professional direction or discuss the long-term career plans that brought you to NAIT.

International students 

For international students, a WIL placement can provide valuable opportunities to gain Canadian work experience. However, a Co-op Work Permit is required for international students to participate in a WIL experience. Applying and receiving this permit can take time so please apply as soon as possible. To learn more, visit nait.ca/immigration.

Programs with WIL Experiences

Updated July 30, 2025

ProgramTypeRequiredPaidIdentified ByDurationStart DatesRecruitment DatesCo-op Work Permit
Advanced Care ParamedicClinical PlacementYesNoProgram30 weeks total VariesN/ARequired
Advanced Carpentry TechnologyCo-opNoYesStudent4 monthsMay - AugustJan - AprRequired
Advanced Plumbing TechnologyCo-opNoYesStudent4 monthsMay - AugustJan - AprRequired
Advanced Welding TechnologyCo-opNoYesStudent4 monthsMay - AugustJan - AprRequired
Alternative Energy TechnologyService LearningYesNoProgramVariesVariesOngoingRequired
Alternative Energy TechnologyCo-opNoYesStudent4 monthsMay - AugustJan/FebRequired
Architectural Technology Co-opCo-opNoYesStudent4 monthsMay - AugustJan/FebRequired
Automotive Service TechnologyField PlacementYesNoStudent140 hoursVariesOngoingRequired
Bachelor of Applied Information Systems TechnologyInternshipYesYesStudent8 months September, January or May OngoingRequired
Bachelor of Applied Information Systems TechnologyInternshipYesYesStudent8 months September, January or May OngoingRequired
Bachelor of Business AdministrationCo-opNoYesStudent12 months (in 4, 8 or 12 month increments)September, January or May Jan/Feb for a May start, June/July for Sept, Oct/Nov for Jan. Required
Bachelor of Technology in ManagementCo-opNoYesStudent4 monthsMay - AugustJan/FebRequired
Baking and Pastry ArtsCo-opNoYesStudent4 monthsMayJan - AprRequired
Biomedical Engineering TechnologyField PlacementYesNoProgram5 weeksMay Required
Biomedical Engineering TechnologyCo-opNoYesStudent4 monthsMay - AugustJan/FebRequired
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