Higher education is undergoing generational transformation, as universities adapt to the needs of a 21st century
workforce. This study investigated student perspectives of a work-integrated learning (WIL) placement program,
firstly in relation to its longer-term worth since they had completed it, and secondly, with respect to its value regarding
course relatedness and in enhancing their employability and/or workplace readiness. Participants answered a series of
learning and career related questions, both immediately post-placement and six or more months later. Of three
learning-related questions, students were generally positive about one and strongly endorsed the other two.
Contrastingly, over time, students downplayed the initial value of their WIL with respect to the knowledge gained
being relevant to their future careers. Students were in moderate to strong agreement with other career-related
questions, notwithstanding concerns about their future employability. Implementation of a work skills development
program is recommended to maximize the effectiveness of WIL. (Asia-Pacific Journal of Cooperative Education