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What is Experiential Learning?
Experiential learning, or applied learning, is a form of education in which you learn through direct experience and active involvement. You’ll apply what you learn in the classroom to solve real problems and complete meaningful projects in real-world settings.
Types of Experiential Learning at FLCC
Experiential learning can look different depending on the program. At FLCC, we offer a wide variety of hands-on learning opportunities to fit your interests and academic goals:
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Internships
An internship is supervised work where you learn on the job in a field related to your program. They can be full-time or part-time, paid or unpaid, and may earn you academic credit. With an internship, you'll gain work experience in a professional industry setting.
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Field Study
Field study involves hands-on learning in regional locations. You might gather data, perform water quality tests, or study local ecosystems. This type of learning is common in our environmental science and conservation programs, as well as in other fields that involve on-site research.
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Study Abroad
Travel internationally and immerse yourself in new cultures with faculty and students you already know. Our short-term study abroad programs combine learning with exploration. Learn more about upcoming trips today.
Other Experiential Learning Opportunities at FLCC
Experiential learning comes in many shapes and sizes. They can involve creative projects, independent or faculty-directed research, volunteer service, and more. Check out these other ways to learn by doing:
Clinical placements involve rotating through healthcare facilities under faculty supervision. You'll practice medical care procedures in local hospitals. It’s an essential way to prepare for professional licensure and employment in the healthcare field.
Programs with Clinical Placements
- Nursing: Registered Nurse (RN) AAS
- Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Certificate
- Emergency Medical Technician: Paramedic AAS
- Emergency Medical Technician: Paramedic Certificate
- Health Care Studies AS: Health Science Track
- Health Care Studies AS: Healthcare Track
- Health Care Studies AS: Public Health Management Track
FLCC offers work-study and student aide positions that serve as practical learning experiences. Through the Federal Work-Study (FWS) program, which is part of the financial aid package, eligible students can work part-time on campus or with approved off-campus employers.
Positions include roles such as library assistants, lab aides, tutors, office support, and more. Work-study helps you cover educational costs and gain professional experience at the same time.
Contact Career Services to learn more about current openings and the application process.
A practicum is a hands-on project or period of work included in a course. Practicums focus on applying the theories or technical skills you’ve learned to real situations, along with reflecting on what you’ve gained.
Many of our programs feature a signature capstone course or portfolio-building project that allows you to showcase the knowledge and skills you've acquired throughout the program. These often act as a final evaluation of your learning and as an experience you can share with future employers during interviews.
Programs with Practicum, Capstones, or Projects
- Communications AS
- Creative Writing AA
- Culinary Arts AAS
- Culinary Arts Certificate
- Event and Hospitality Management AAS
- Event and Hospitality Management Certificate
- Fine Arts AS
- Graphic Design AAS
- Kinesiology and Human Performance AS
- Music AS
- Music Recording Technology AS
- Networking and Cybersecurity AAS
- New Media AS
- Theatre Arts AA
- Viticulture Certificate
- Viticulture and Wine Technology AAS
- Web and Mobile Development AAS
Labs give practical experience with technical skills you'll use in your career. After conducting research, you may even have a chance to present at FLCC or a regional conference. With faculty supervision, students at FLCC have the opportunity to share their discoveries with a broader audience.
Programs with Labs and Research Opportunities
Search for Volunteer Opportunities
Explore our volunteer opportunities database to find agencies and organizations that match your interests. Gain valuable experience while making a difference in the community.
Find the Perfect Experiential Learning Opportunity
Whether you spend a semester at an internship, volunteer on the weekend, or complete a research project, you’ll leave FLCC with more than a degree. Take your next step today.
Connect With Us
Ready to apply your college skills to a real-world project? Discover what options are available for you by meeting with our applied learning specialist.
Schedule AppointmentCommunity Partners
We're looking to partner with local businesses and organizations. Contact us if you're interested in hosting a learning program at your workplace.
Partner with UsResources
Contact Us
Linda Cunningham
Technical Specialist-Applied Learning & Adv. Comm. Liaison
Hours
Mon-Fri: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Schedule appointments by email.