RMIT students gain a degree as part of full-time employment, in unique new learning model

RMIT students gain a degree as part of full-time employment, in unique new learning model

RMIT has begun delivering a unique 'earn and learn’ learning model, where students gain their qualification while working full-time with an industry partner.

The new learning model is the first of its kind at degree level in Australia and will ensure graduates are job-ready for sectors facing critical skills demands.

More than 1000 students have so far enrolled in vocational and higher education pathways in areas like IT and cyber security, engineering, aged care and nuclear medicine, while fully integrated in their workplace.

The qualifications are co-designed and delivered with the state government and industry partners like the Suburban Rail Loop Authority and Ixom. 

Importantly, the ‘earn and learn’ model aligns with the Australian Universities Accord by shaping a new system to better address the nation’s current and future skills shortages, while making high-quality training more accessible and affordable to students of all ages and backgrounds.

Quotes attributable to Deputy Vice-Chancellor Vocational Education and Vice-President Mish Eastman

“RMIT is going beyond traditional learning and teaching models, working alongside industry and government to address Australia’s critical skills demands.

“Our unique programs like ‘earn and learn’ are already paying off – more people have access to post-secondary education and our graduates are job-ready.”

Quotes attributable to Suburban Rail Loop Authority CEO Frankie Carroll

“This is a great opportunity to ensure the next generation of workers have the skills and experience they need to help build Victoria and the nation.  

“The RMIT students working on Suburban Rail Loop gain practical experience that complements their studies and also gain valuable non-technical skills.

Quotes attributable to RMIT ‘earn and learn’ student Alex Lines  

“I always wanted to keep progressing my education. The opportunity to become a fully accredited mechanical engineer and continue working at a place I love was too good to pass up.”

19 March 2025

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19 March 2025

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