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Types of applied learning

Students getting hands-on experience in the Robotics lab

When it comes to bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience, nobody offers more opportunities than Wichita State. Thanks to our location in Kansas' largest city, Shockers in every major can gain the skills, connections and confidence needed for career success—before graduation—with employers in virtually every industry.

Student employment

Shockers have access to more applied learning opportunities than you'll ever find in the typical college town.

Applied Learning Placements  — Paid, WSU-facilitiated jobs with local industry partners that build skills that go beyond classroom learning.

Co-ops — Paid, multi-semester jobs, related to your major, where you ­earn academic credit.

Internships — Paid or unpaid work experience in professional settings, with academic credit and zero-credit options, completed full time or part time.

Suzie Garcia interning at the Child Development center on WSU's main campus.

Other types of applied learning

  • Practicum and clinical placements

    Practical experience in professional settings that is tied to specific degree programs (such as nursing or social work) and required for graduation.

  • Service learning and volunteering

    Classroom learning combined with public service that benefits your educational goals while also meeting community needs. Create your own project or work with local public agencies and nonprofits.

  • Student research

    Investigation and experimentation within your academic area. Student research at WSU may be conducted on or off campus, independently or in collaboration with faculty, peers and industry professionals.

  • Mentorships

    Connecting with a professional in your future area of employment. Mentors provide expertise, guidance and industry contacts—helping you discover and achieve your dream career.

Student outcomes

 Where can a Wichita State education take you? Just ask our current students and recent grads who've taken advantage of our unmatched opportunities to discover their dream careers, conduct groundbreaking research and, ultimately, make a positive impact on their futures—and the world.

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Applied learning impact *

Want to know more?

  • $
    39
    million+

    Students earned $39 million+ in wages in 2024-25

  • 800

    Applied Learning Placements at more than 800 employers

  • 12,000

    Students worked in more than 12,000 positions in 2024-35 inside the classroom

* Numbers above include paid and unpaid on- and off-campus postions; co-op/internships; and applied learning experiences

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