Matching learning with experience
PEPS is an innovative work-based learning program that enables final-year engineering students at The University of Queensland to spend six months in industry while still gaining full academic credit.
This unique approach has resulted in awards for excellence from the University and the Australasian Association for Engineering Education.
How it works
Students selected for PEPS are placed in industry, government agencies, or in research organisations from December to June. They undertake vacation work and then during semester complete a project proposed by the placement organisation, either a major investigation or research project or a significant design task that integrates technical, commercial and other factors including risk and project management.
Placement organisations pay a fee to participate in the scheme and students receive a scholarship as compensation.
Students gain academic credit for the placement semester by aligning the tasks they perform with the learning objectives of several university courses. The project accounts for the bulk of the credit while the professional knowledge and skills they gain count towards a professional development course.
Students apply for a place on the scheme. Placement providers are encouraged to get involved in the selection process which includes an interview. The scheme is not for every student. We recognise that it suits those who are looking to be challenged and those who prefer to learn in context. While having a good Grade Point Average is an indicator of success in the scheme, so too are other personal attributes and the student’s level of maturity.
Benefits to Industry
Placements can be with private sector companies, with the public sector or with reserach organisations, in remote locations such as mining operations or in the metropolitan offices, in large or small organisations, in most industries that depend upon engineering, located in Australia or internationally. The placment orgaination benefits from the project work and other tasks performed by the student. It not only provides an authentic experience of professional practice for the student, but also gives the company the opportunity to observe the student's performance as a potential employees under authentic conditions. Students on placement are in their final year of engineering study and so are expected to be able to contribute fully to the development of the project.
For more information
Click on the menu to link to Choosing a Project, Intellectual Property, Selection of Students, or Frequently Asked Questions.
To discuss your specific requirements, contact Kim Jensen, Community Partnerships Manager, 07 3365 1107, k.jensen@uq.edu.au