The Professional Development Academy is a pillar of the Work and Learn Program that provides VWU students with an opportunity to gain real-world experience while building a network with professionals in the community. Additionally, students earn credit and a scholarship to contribute to their degree. Administered by VWU's Career & Professional Development team, the two year program equips students with distinctive career readiness competencies, and comprehensive preparation for post-graduation employment.Â
Program Benefits
- A work-based learning position on-campus
- $3,000 scholarship (tuition credit) per year
- Academic credits (2 credits for INST 103 Professional Preparation course or INST 105 Effective Learning Strategies course)
- Discounted summer tuition for a work-based learning course at $150/credit hr
- Participate in an approved mentoring program, internship or work-based learning opportunity related to your intended career during the 3rd and 4th year.
Program Eligibility:
- Students must be of freshman or sophomore status (relatively 1st or 2nd year of enrollment at VWU).
- Enroll in INST 103 or INST 105 in the fall of the first semester of participation.
- Maintain a 2.0 GPA or higher (as applicable)
Program Continuation:
- Complete a minimum of 300 hours per academic year (not including summer)
- Participate in an approved mentoring program, internship or work-based learning opportunity related to your intended career during the 3rd and 4th year.
- Meet with the Career Development program staff each semester
- Meet with Financial Aid office each year
- Maintain a 2.0 GPA
- Maintain a log of hours
To apply, please follow the link below, where you will be asked to submit a resume and answer a few short questions. After applying, you will be contacted by Career & Professional Development, with more information about the program and next steps.
For additional information, contact the Career & Professional Development Team.