About

Work-based learning ( WBL ) is an educational plan that integrates classroom learning with supervised work experience in an employment situation directly related to your chosen academic program at McDowell Tech Community College.

 The primary objective is to provide you with the best preparation for employment / to expand on your current related position. 

 A successful WBL program results from cooperative and collaborative efforts made by you, your employer, and MTCC. Work experience becomes work-based learning when there is cooperation among a college, an employer, and a student concerning work activities that correlate with learning activities. 

The fundamental reason for the success of WBL is very clear. Everyone wins— you, your employers, and mTCC benefit from WBL experiences. The State Board of Community Colleges and the NCCCS have adopted policies and procedures to ensure that WBL is a viable part of any curriculum where work experience will enhance your educational experience. 

Work-Based Learning will allow you to complete your degree quicker and enhance your employability skillsets through hands-on experience. 

Logistics

Student Criteria for Work-Based Learning:

 Enrolled in an MTCC Program of Study  

Age Requirement: 18 years of age, subject to the rules and regulations of the North Carolina Department of Labor Youth Employment Laws and the United States Department of Labor Fair Labor Standards Act. If applicable, the Work- Based Learning Coordinator will provide you with the Youth Employment Certificate.

 Currently employed or seeking employment placement.

 If you are participating in a WBL course, you must be enrolled in the appropriate program and be in good academic standing. You must maintain a GPA of 2.0 in your program of study ( per MTCC academic standards).

Students are allowed up to 8 hours of work-based learning credit.

Apprenticeship students are allowed up to 16 hours of Work-Based Learning credit. 

Students must meet the minimum on-the-job hours each semester to complete the WBL course

*The following students may not participate in work-based learning courses: Students in Correctional Settings, Special Credit Students.

 Credit hour break down 

1 credit hour course = 160 hrs total OTJ

16 weeks = 10 hours a week

 2 credit hour course = 320 hrs total OTJ

16 weeks = 20 hours a week OTJ

 3 credit hour course = 480 hrs total (only available to apprenticeship students )

16 weeks = 30 hours a week OTJ

4 credit hour course = 640 hrs total (only available to apprenticeship students )

Contact Information

If you are interested in the Work Based Learning or Apprenticeship Program, please contact:

Annie M Duncan, M.A

Coordinator of Work-Based Learning and Apprenticeships

Email: [email protected] 

Phone: 828-659-0497

Text : 828-559-9567