IS Applied Learning Experience FAQs

Q: When is the best time to apply for the IS Applied Learning Experience program?

As an IS major, the earliest you could apply is when you are enrolled in IST 211 or have taken IST 211. Employers are increasing more interested in students who are farther along in their academic journey. Students with junior or senior status and have completed classes such as IST 331, IST 321, and IST 341 are placed more readily. 

Q: I am an International Student. Can I still apply for the Applied Learning Experience program?

The IS Applied Learning Experience is limited to undergraduate students majoring in Information Systems. Assuming you meet all the requirements (GPA and IST coursework) you can apply for the IS Applied Learning Experience Program. However, most employers are not anxious to hire students that may require sponsorship.

Q: I am currently enrolled in IST 211 but am an Engineering major - can I still apply for the Applied Learning Experience?

No, you need to be on track to earn a BS in Information Systems or a BBA majoring in Business Analytics within the Monte Ahuja College of Business to apply for the IS Applied Learning Experience program. There are co-operative programs and internships available in the Washkewicz College of Engineering. However, you can declare Information Systems as your major by making an appointment with an undergraduate advisor in BU 219. Learn more about Undergraduate Advising here.

Q: Will my health insurance cover me during my session on the job?

To be considered a full-time student and receive all the benefits of that status, such as health insurance, living in the dorms and loan deferment, students will need to be enrolled for 6 credit- hours. While on the job, students are registered in IST 300 for 3 credit-hours. Students will need to be enrolled in another 3 credit-hour course to obtain full-time status. Since many courses are offered either in the evening or online, this is not difficult to achieve.

Q: What is the likelihood of obtaining an Applied Learning Experience assignment?

Placements are obtained on a competitive basis through an interview process and, therefore, are dependent on factors such as grades, class status, personal presentation, communication skills and other variables. The large majority of student who elect to participate in the program obtain assignments.

Q: What happens if I don't get an Applied Learning Experience assignment?

There are two enrollment periods for the program: the middle of September and the beginning of February. Both sessions focus on assignments that are available for the next year. For example, student entering in September 2024 are applying for positions that would start sometime in 2025. Similarly, students entering in February 2025 are applying for positions that start later in 2025.

Due to market conditions, economic circumstances or other factors, a student may not get an assignment in a given enrollment period. In that case, they would be considered for placement during the next enrollment period.

Q: Can I work full-time and take classes at the same time?

A majority of the IST courses are taught in the evenings. It’s possible to work and take classes at the same time. However, during an IS Applied Learning Experience session, work takes precedence over classes.

Q: I already have a job. Can I get IS Applied Learning Experience credit for it?

Yes, as long as the employer will agree to the requirements of the IS Applied Learning Experience program. The IS Applied Learning Experience coordinator will determine if an employer meets the requirements.