Work-integrated learning

We'll discuss possible internship/placement opportunities with you and determine your requirements so that we can develop a tailored solution that suits you and our students. This includes:

• discipline and skills
• duration of the placement
• whether the placement is paid or unpaid (under fair work arrangements)
• be provided as part of a core or elective unit
• location of the placement etc.

In this phase, we'll cover processes such as:

• the placement agreement
• position description
• legislative and regulatory requirements, e.g. insurance, occupational health and safety
• payment arrangements (if applicable)
• promotion and recruitment timelines.

All students who undertake a WIL placement for credit with your organisation are insured by Deakin University’s Personal Accident Insurance scheme for the duration of their placement. This includes any injuries they may receive or that may occur. It also covers public liability and professional indemnity for any damage/injuries that they may cause.

The host (where applicable, and through Deakin) may fund a scholarship for each student undertaking an IBL or postgraduate professional practice placement. In this instance, and while on placement, students aren't considered to be on the organisation’s payroll. Contributions may be tax deductible to your organisation. Alternatively (where applicable), hosts can engage students directly. Host organisations should consult their tax adviser about this matter. Please contact our WIL team to discuss further.

Placement opportunities are advertised to the most suitable students across our communication channels. We check student eligibility to take part and shortlist those who have submitted an application. An application usually consists of a resume, cover letter and, in some instances, responses to your selection criteria. An Academic Transcript for each student can also be supplied, if required. This will be provided upon receiving students' permission.

The selection process follows a typical graduate recruitment format with your organisation interviewing a shortlist of applicants before making a final decision. We can also provide multiple students to act as a team to meet your specific project requirements. Students are responsible for their own transport expenses and arrangements for the duration of their placement.

From time to time you may receive a direct request from one of our students seeking a placement in your organisation. We would be delighted if you could discuss the possibility with the student of, and provide, a practical work professional placement/internship opportunity.

The WIL program aims to give students the opportunity to develop skills relevant to their discipline, and receive a broad exposure and understanding of work procedures and available career outcomes.

Another aim of a WIL placement is to teach students to manage their own professional development through a cyclical process of self-assessment, goal setting, evaluation and reflection. The student is solely responsible for this work and must complete a series of assessments before, during and after the placement.

Deakin assigns all WIL students an academic supervisor to assist the student with any academic issues that may arise. Constructive feedback from your nominated supervisor will also be invaluable in the student’s professional and personal development.

Following on from the internship/placement, we hope to continue our partnership with you for future placement opportunities.