Workplace Learning Options
Work-based Learning
Work-based Learning (formerly Co-op) is an academic class that allows students to gain practical work experience. Rather than attend class in a traditional classroom, students work with an employer in a position directly related to their field of study. Work-based Learning is similar to an internship, but students receive academic credit either as electives or a required class. Participating students benefit from work experience that can help in getting a career-related job after graduation. Employers can connect with students as faculty support them throughout the experience. Work-based learning experiences may be paid or unpaid.
Eligibility
Students are accepted from various programs of study, provided they meet the following criteria:
- Enrollment in a program of study which includes a Work-based Learning (WBL) class as a required course or technical elective;
- Minimum GPA requirements and successful completion of certain courses determined by the Program Chair or faculty adviser;
- Recommendation to participate in the WBL class from the Program Chair or faculty adviser;
- Approval to participate by the Workplace Learning office; and
- Students currently working in their field may receive academic credit for the WBL class at their current job.
Placement is not guaranteed for all eligible students. For more information:
- call Workplace Learning at 704.330.6217; students can also schedule a virtual video meeting;
- email workplace.learning@cpcc.edu; or
- visit the Workplace Learning website.
Internships
Internships are flexible, non-credit-bearing work experiences that allow students and recent graduates to gain exposure to their field. Internships enable students to build related work experience further, enhance their portfolios, and offer programs where work-based learning is unavailable. Upon successfully completing an internship, participants will receive a certificate acknowledging their achievement.
Eligibility to participate in a non-credit internship varies based on the program of study. Please contact the Workplace Learning office for details.
Apprenticeship
Apprenticeship is a long-term talent pipeline strategy pairing classroom instruction with on-the-job training resulting in a journey worker credential in a specific occupation. By combining classroom and workplace learning, both the employer and selected students share a valuable experience that produces immediate results. Students gain employment and valuable work experience. Employers often cover the cost of tuition, fees, and books for apprentices and often offer full-time employment upon successful completion of an apprenticeship. Employers benefit from having highly skilled employees in difficult positions to fill. In North Carolina, formal or registered apprenticeships are created by agreements between employers, ApprenticeshipNC, and the Department of Labor (DOL).
To learn more about participating in an apprenticeship, potential students should visit the Workplace Learning website or email workplace.learning@cpcc.edu.