Experiential Learning:
Experiential Learning (also referred to as Applied learning) refers to an educational approach whereby students learn by engaging in direct application of skills, theories and models. Students apply knowledge and skills gained from traditional classroom learning to hands-on and/or real-world settings, creative projects or independent or directed research, and in turn apply what is gained from the applied experience to academic learning. The applied learning activity can occur outside of the traditional classroom experience and/or be embedded as part of a course. In order to be considered Applied Learning, the experiences must meet criteria that are based on national standards in experiential education. Applied learning experiences strengthen the academic performance of students, increase student retention, and improve employment outcomes post-graduation.
Applied learning experiences for which a student may earn academic credit in an agreed-upon, short-term, supervised workplace activity, which may be related to a student’s major field or area of interest. The work can be full or part time, on or off campus, paid or unpaid. Some institutions offer both credit and non-credit bearing internships. Internships integrate classroom knowledge and theory with practical application and skills developed in professional or community settings. This definition does not include internships that are required components of a registered program leading to NYS licensure or certification (e.g., teacher preparation, social work, dental hygiene). An internship is distinct from community service or service learning.
For faculty interested in cultivating new internship sites and/or learning which employers UB already has connections with, the Career Design Center is excited to help!
Some resources they can help with:
Mentored, self-directed work that enables students to make an original, intellectual or creative contribution to the discipline by exploring an issue of interest to them and communicating the results to others.
For faculty who would like to advertise research opportunities, please contact the Experiential Learning Network (see Explore Projects for current offerings):
A credit-bearing educational strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience and strengthen communities.
Information on service opportunities may be found through Student Engagement. Learn more about volunteer and community service programs and projects including: Social Change Saturdays, Alternative Breaks, the UB Impact Challenge, and more!
An instructional program delivered in either an overseas location or domestic location. Often the program is delivered as a semester-long or intercession sequence of courses, the content of which is enhanced by the location of instruction, by distinctive historic or cultural features available in the location, or by a unique approach to the subject matter that is specific to the locale. Exchanges are often conducted by individual students traveling independently to a location that has been pre-approved by their home institution, and where they determine their specific course of study in collaboration with home and host institution faculty.
If faculty are interested in developing faculty-led programs, they can find information on the New Program Development page on the Office of Education Abroad website.
If faculty are taking students outside of the U.S. for a non-credit experience, they should contact the Assistant Vice Provost and Director of Education Abroad, Adam Rubin, for assistance with risk management and SUNY-mandated international health insurance enrollments.
If any faculty (specifically teaching 198 and 199 seminars) would like to request an Education Abroad Classroom Presentation, they may complete the form.
Students may complete an Education Abroad Course Planning Form if they would like coursework they intend to take abroad to be reviewed to fill specific requirements.
In addition, please find a link to programs administered by other SUNY campuses that UB students may participate in. Programs (UB and Other SUNY administered) that include an International Internship as part of the curriculum are available to search.
CAS has funding opportunities for students interested in studying abroad, conducting research, doing an internship, etc. Funds are limited and not guaranteed. All CAS students are encouraged to apply – please direct students to:
*For students seeking funding toward experiential learning opportunities including: study abroad, internships, research, fieldwork with faculty