Module 2: Types of WIL in Canada

Module 2

Three professionally dressed students stand together on a city street, with a distinctive tower and urban buildings visible in the background.

Photo: Courtesy of the WIL program at SFU

Welcome to Module 2: Types of WIL in Canada

This module will give you a foundational understanding of the nine different forms of work-integrated learning (WIL) and examples of how each type can support both your organization and students' learning. WIL is not a single program but a spectrum of structured work experiences that connect academic learning with meaningful workplace practice. Across British Columbia, the Yukon, and Canada more broadly, there are nine nationally recognized types of WIL, each with a distinct structure, focus, and value to WIL host organizations.

This module is designed as a flexible learning path. Many organizations work with one or two WIL types, while others explore several as their workplace needs change. You are encouraged to focus on the WIL types most relevant to your organization's capacity, projects, and recruitment needs. However, you are also welcome to complete all nine sections to broaden your understanding and explore additional ways to engage with WIL students.

In this module, you will learn how to:

Identify the nine WIL types used in Canada
Understand their key differences, benefits, and common uses by WIL host organizations
Determine which WIL type or types align with your workplace capacity, supervision structure, and talent goals

Each section includes:

A clear overview of the WIL type
A real-world example or use case from a WIL host organization
A short video and a link to the CEWIL Employer Toolkit