Work integrated learning

The Faculty of Health Sciences is a world leader in its field; recognised for excellence in education, research, health care service and community engagement in the health sciences.

The faculty offers studies in biomedical and nutrition sciences, exercise physiology, exercise science, midwifery, nursing, occupational therapy, paramedicine, physiotherapy, psychology, public health, social work, and speech pathology.

ACU Staff member assisting a woman with an exercise routine in the gym.

What is work integrated learning?

Work integrated learning (WIL) is a term used to describe students undertaking learning in a workplace outside of normal university classes as part of their study. These are experiences which provide students with opportunities to put theoretical learning into practice.

The faculty works with a range of industry partners to offer WIL programs that give students a competitive edge by equipping them with skills and confidence that employees are looking for in graduates.

WIL experiences on offer

  • Placements: Clinical or other professional placements – work in industry, professional or community organisations.
  • WIL projects: collaborate with industry, community and government departments to undertake consulting and research projects with industry partners. You can take part in online projects, internships or workplace projects.
  • ACU health clinics: complete your practical rotations at our campus health clinics under the supervision of professional practice educators. Our educators are all fully qualified and experienced health professionals in their fields such as psychology, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology, social work and exercise physiology.

Activities that support WIL

Two ACU students look at a folder while assisted by an instructor in a clinic facility
  • Simulations: our student have access to world class simulation wards and suites. In these wards and suites, they engage with highly technological manikins with realistic interactions and actors to develop and practice interpersonal and decision-making skills which prepares them for clinical placements.
  • Assessment activities: our assessment activities are designed to simulate real world situations to help students be confident and work ready.
  • Community engagement: defined at ACU as activities that build capacity and affirm human dignity through sustainable and reciprocal collaborations with communities who experience disadvantage or marginalisation. It is a unique and crucial part of our undergraduate courses that connect classwork to community action for an invaluable learning experience in service to the common good.
  • International study opportunities: take part in a group overseas study experience to gain an understanding of different cultures and their challenges and triumphs in health care service.

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