MTCC Work-Based Learning Information

Work-Based Learning Overview

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 or 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.

Student Criteria for Work-Based Learning

• Enrolled in an MTCC Program of Study
• Age Requirement: 18 years of age, subject to NC Department of Labor Youth Employment Laws and U.S. Department of Labor Fair Labor Standards Act. If applicable, the WBL Coordinator will provide a Youth Employment Certificate.
• Currently Employed or Seeking Employment Placement
• Must be in good academic standing and enrolled in the appropriate program
• Maintain a GPA of 2.0 in your program of study (per MTCC academic standards)
• Take WBL courses in sequence with other program course requirements
• 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
• Not eligible: Students in correctional settings and special credit students

Logistics

Each student will meet with the Work-Based Learning and Apprenticeship Coordinator multiple times each semester. The coordinator will assist with course scheduling and goal planning.

Students will maintain a WBL Workbook with required documentation (contracts, timesheets, evaluations, site visitations). The workbook is graded and refreshed each semester.

Materials and requirements are covered during an orientation and follow-up advising sessions.

Evaluations include:

1. A site visit to ensure you’re gaining skills at your WBL work site
2. Ongoing communication between student, MTCC, and employer during placement
3. At least one mandatory site visit per WBL course per semester

Minimum Required On-the-Job Hours

• 1 credit hour course: 1 MLO = 160 hours (16 weeks = 10 hrs/week)
• 2 credit hour course: 2 MLO = 320 hours (16 weeks = 20 hrs/week)
• 3 credit hour course: 3 MLO = 480 hours (apprenticeship only, 16 weeks = 30 hrs/week)
• 4 credit hour course: 4 MLO = 640 hours (apprenticeship only)

Contact Information

Annie M Duncan, M.A
Coordinator of Work-Based Learning and Apprenticeships
Email: amduncan00@go.mcdowelltech.edu
Office: 828-659-0497
Text: 828-559-9567