Program Rationale


Employers increasingly require more from prospective employees than a certificate of completion of a language study course.  They want assurance that candidates can function effectively in the workplace using the language skills they have acquired.  The work experience program assists learners in practicing and applying their new skills while providing an opportunity to demonstrate their competence for the benefit of potential employers.

  Integrates work experience and acquisition of practical English language skills in a Canadian work environment
  Provides opportunity for professional cross-cultural communication and learning
  Provides authentic practice and development in an immersion environment
  Satisfies demands of potential employers for real world application of language skills
  Assists in networking and obtaining references from satisfied host employers
  Full support and guidance from VIC's counselors and teachers through all stages of program

Multiskill English courses 5 days per week in the morning

In the afternoon, before starting the business communication course, students will study for at least 4 weeks in targeted, single-skill classes to address areas of particular need

Business Communication course 4 days per week in the afternoon, for the final 8 weeks prior to work placement (80 hours total); completion of this course prior to job placement is mandatory

Evaluation of student prepared every 2 weedsduring work placement by workplace supervisor and done by e-mail or by phone

Final Essay required for completion of program, due in week following end of work placement

Program options:  25, 33, or 49 weeks

Start dates for Work Experience Program:  Weekly, every Monday

   1.  The Business Communication class prepares students specifically for their work placements.
   2.  Successful completion of the work placement term is mandatory to receive credit for this program.
   3.  The total hours of employment in the work placement term must not exceed the total hours of classroom study.
   4.  The work placement component of this program will be paid or unpaid, at participating host employers or host companies.
   5.  Work Placement interviews can be arranged by VIC upon payment of a placement fee (recommended),
         or students not wishing to pay the fee may make arrangements themselves.
   6.  All work placements must be authorized in advance by an authorized representative of VIC.
   7.  The student's progress in their work placement will be monitored, and a final evaluation will be provided
        at the end of the work placement period.

     Age: 19 years and older
     English level:  VIC Level 5 and higher, as determined by a placement test and interview.
      Additional English language study may be required prior to the Work Experience Program if placement test scores are too low
      or inadequate progress is made in the preparatory classes.
     Visa Requirements:
                -  Canadian Study permit and Co-op Work Permit
                -  Or a Working Holiday Visa

                                                                                                                                                                                 All Fees are Canadian dollars

Notes: 

1 Program length includes 1 week for preparation of final essay.

2 Administration fee applies to Work Experience Program only and is non-refundable

3 Placement service fee is optional