Experiential Learning forms the backbone of the Pitt-Johnstown Real World Action Program. It is a process through which students develop knowledge and skills from experiences outside of the traditional academic setting. These includes internships, undergraduate research, volunteering, and cooperative education.
Internships provide a valuable experience for both the student and sponsoring organization. While internships can be paid or unpaid, they are not considered the same as part-time employment or volunteer work.
Internships, which are typically 3 to 6 months in duration, are guided by a structured learning plan that includes specific educational objectives. To learn more about internship opportunities, please visit our internship page.
Students have the opportunity to engage in research, scholarship, and creative experiences with faculty who are leaders in their fields. This experience-based learning complements classroom learning by developing relationships among faculty, gaining critical skills, and strengthening career aspirations.
Community engagement provides students with an opportunity to volunteer at various local sites. This allows students to partner and create purposeful relationships while learning about social, cultural, and economic issues. Volunteer opportunities are available to individuals or groups. VolunteerMatch is an online resource to help connect people and places.
Cooperative Education (Engineering Technology majors)
Co-op offers students the chance to obtain a full year’s-worth of work experience prior to graduation. This is an opportunity to learn, earn, and graduate with a higher starting salary, while maintaining status as a full-time undergraduate student. For more information, visit Pitt’s Cooperative Education Homepage.