Earn and Learn: a turning point for tertiary education
The industry forum was held after the University recently launched its industry-based learning model, Earn and Learn. The model is the first of its kind for a Victorian university at degree level.
Professor Alec Cameron, RMIT Vice-Chancellor and President, said Earn and Learn is a turning point for tertiary education at RMIT, drawing together knowledge and skills to create a dynamic, flexible and highly skilled workforce.
“Unlike other work-integrated learning models, Earn and Learn will see students complete their studies as part of their full-time, paid employment at a partner employer,” he said.
“This model allows them to acquire valuable workplace skills while attaining a tertiary qualification.”
“It creates learning opportunities to address escalating skills shortages, improve workforce participation, and upskill and reskill large parts of the workforce at risk of unemployment.”
RMIT is leading the nation in the size and scale of industry-based learning models like Earn and Learn.
More than 1000 students have so far enrolled in vocational and higher education pathways in areas like IT, cyber security, engineering, aged care and nuclear medicine, while fully integrated in their workplace.
Addressing the skills crisis in Australia
As an industry-based learning model, Earn and Learn is co-designed and delivered with RMIT’s array of industry partners.
The University has worked with state governments in Victoria, Western Australia and Queensland, as well as partners like the Suburban Rail Loop Authority and Ixom, to launch several qualifications so far.
RMIT Deputy Vice-Chancellor College of Vocational Education Mish Eastman said the benefits for industry were numerous, contributing to a more dynamic economy and ultimately, a more prosperous Australia.
“Our partner employers share in the benefits of Earn and Learn,” she said.
“They have the opportunity to shape student learning and training according to their specific needs, closing skills gaps and improving productivity.”
