Employer Supervisor Applied Studies Guide

Applied Studies allows students to earn academic credit while gaining hands-on experience in a professional environment related to their field of study. As an Employer Supervisor, you provide students with meaningful opportunities for mentorship, skill development, and professional growth.

This course is designed to be collaborative: students are supported by a Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Instructor for professional skills & reflective practice assignments, and by an Academic Supervisor for the academic portion of the course. Your role focuses on creating a supportive and structured placement, offering feedback, and participating in a midpoint monitor visit and final evaluation.

You are the student’s Workplace Supervisor. Your job is to provide them with:

• A position that supports skill development for 120 hours per semester (approx. 10 hour/week)

• Ongoing mentorship and feedback

• Input about the student's learning objectives for the course

• Provide insight and feedback during a mid-term check-in (Monitor Visit)

• A Student Evaluation at the end of the term

The Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Instructor will guide you and send all forms and evaluations via email — nothing needs to be prepared in advance.

Before the Start of the Course

• Meet with the student to discuss the position

• Ensure the role is meaningful, with clear tasks and learning opportunities

• Approve the Work Placement Application via email

  • This form verifies the position and includes safety information

During the Semester

• Ask the student to share their learning objectives

  • These are goals the student sets for personal and professional growth

• Offer feedback and regular check-ins

• Join a Monitor Visit (~45 minutes) with the student and WIL Instructor

  • This is a chance to check progress, support learning, and raise any concerns

End of the Semester

• Complete a Student Evaluation (emailed to you)

  • Your feedback helps determine the student’s course grade

  • You can also discuss how the student might use this experience for future opportunities

Your role as a workplace employer has a direct impact on student success and can bring meaningful value to your organization.

Access to Emerging Talent

• Students bring fresh perspectives, enthusiasm, and evolving knowledge in areas like research, communication, marketing, policy, and data analysis.

• Placements can help move forward small projects or support daily operations.

Community Impact & Mentorship

• Contribute to the development of future professionals in your industry or sector.

• Support young talent in gaining real-world experience, helping bridge the gap between education and employment.

Low Commitment, High Value

• The minimum work requirement is only 120 hours over the semester (approx. 10 hours/week).

Directly contact a Work Integrated Learning Instructor — we’re here to help