Bachelor of Arts work integrated learning

In AUT’s Bachelor of Arts, you’ll complete work integrated learning as the final part of your degree. It’s your chance to pull together everything you’ve learnt across your programme and apply it in a real setting. You’ll build valuable workplace experience before you graduate – and get a taste of what it’s like to make your knowledge work.

Work integrated learning options for Bachelor of Arts students

CLSY703 Work Integrated Learning (WIL) in the BA is a 30-point course where you’ll complete 150 hours of placement and take on project work that builds on that experience.

You can complete your placement in a few different ways:

  • One single placement with an organisation
  • Integrating it into your current work with a special project
  • Family/own business option
  • Virtual internship

Whatever option you choose, you’ll need pre-approval from the WIL team. You can work with your WIL course coordinator to plan the best fit for your degree and goals.

When can you do your WIL placement?

You’ll usually complete WIL in your final year of study. The course runs as either a single-semester or full-year option.

What to do before starting work integrated learning

Getting ready for your workplace experience is a lot like applying for a job. It’s a chance to show your attention to detail, communication skills and professionalism – all things that count in the real world.

Here’s what you need to know before starting work integrated learning. You should aim to begin your WIL course with a placement already confirmed, so it’s best to start preparing at least three months ahead. Follow the steps below to get ready.

Preparing for WIL

You can tick off these steps any time during your degree to get ready for work integrated learning:

  1. Build your CV. Join an AUT Employability workshop for tips on writing a standout CV. You can register for workshops on Elab Online 
  2. Attend a WIL info session. These run at set times during the year
  3. If you meet the requirements, you can enrol in CLSY703 Work Integrated Learning – you can enrol via My AUT.

Once you're enrolled, you'll have regular WIL classes throughout the semester alongside your placement hours.

Finding a placement

There’s a wide range of WIL placements out there. You should explore opportunities both within and beyond your discipline. Talk through your ideas with your WIL course coordinator or lecturers – they’re here to help.

Here’s how to start your search:

  • Check out Elab Online for current opportunities and set up alerts
  • Connect with your lecturers and guest speakers
  • Go to AUT career expos
  • Reach out to your networks – friends, whānau, social contacts

Once you’ve found a suitable placement, you’ll need to complete a placement approval form. You’ll find this in the CLSY703 course materials. After your WIL course coordinator approves your placement, you’ll work with your placement supervisor to create a WIL Learning Agreement.

Frequently asked questions

Yes. CLSY703 Work integrated learning (WIL) is a core course for students in all Bachelor of Arts majors.

If you plan to continue into postgraduate study, you may be able to take one of these alternatives instead:

Your eligibility depends on your previous grades and requires discussion with course leads and WIL coordinators.

Most students aren't paid for their WIL placement hours. If you do get paid, lucky you – it's the exception, not the norm.

Choose the Social Sciences and Humanities/Te Ara Poutama stream.

Need help? Email csoc.general@aut.ac.nz

Both streams are worth 30 points, and have the same content and assessments.

  • One-semester stream: More intensive – less time to complete placement hours and assessments.
  • Full-year stream: Best if you’re not graduating until the end of the year.

Choose the course option that matches your major and where you’ll do your placement.

No – AUT won't choose your placement, but your WIL course coordinator can help you refine your ideas. Two heads are often better than one.

Yes, it’s best to have your placement confirmed before your WIL semester begins.

You may be able to apply for an extension, but this could delay your graduation.

If you’re in the one-semester stream and haven’t found a placement by Week 4, you’ll need to transfer to the full-year stream.

Usually no – but in exceptional circumstances it may be possible.

If you’re in the one-semester stream, you might fast-track and start early – but only after your academic supervisor approves and your learning agreement is signed within 20 hours of starting your 150-hour placement.

Possibly, but it depends on several factors. Contact your WIL course coordinator.

You must:

  • Confirm your placement before leaving
  • Draft your learning agreement
  • Sign a declaration confirming full medical cover while overseas

Yes, it’s possible, but it’s not always the best option. Staying in your usual role can limit how much new learning you gain.

If you choose to do your placement at your current workplace:

  • Try to take on a role that’s different from your everyday job
  • Or consider doing a special project for the organisation that gives you fresh challenges and skills

Contact details

Got questions about work integrated learning in the Bachelor of Arts? If you're currently studying at AUT, get in touch.

Email: csoc.general@aut.ac.nz

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