The Center for Experiential Learning

At the Center for Experiential Learning (CEL), you don’t just study business—you practice it. The CEL delivers individualized experiential learning that moves beyond one-size-fits-all coursework, aligning each student’s interests, strengths, and goals with real-world business challenges.

Our for-credit courses connect you with real organizations, real challenges, and real results. Through hands-on experiences, you’ll explore your unique interests, build professional skills, and graduate with experience that matters.

CEL gave me the chance to work with a real client and deliver tangible recommendations. It was a unique opportunity to build teamwork and consulting skills beyond the classroom.

—Jason Li

Request Information

Experiential & Individualized Learning at Olin

At Olin, no two CEL experiences look the same. Beginning with the Class of 2029, all BSBA students complete 3 credits of experiential coursework that immerse them in real-world business scenarios - helping you develop practical skills, professional confidence, and clarity about your goals

What You’ll Do

• Work in teams to solve real business challenges
• Partner directly with clients and stakeholders
• Conduct research, analysis, and strategy development
• Present recommendations and deliver tangible outcomes

Projects span areas such as marketing, strategy, operations, finance, entrepreneurship, and social impact.

Learning Through Practicums

All CEL experiential courses are practicums—hands-on, project-based experiences where students work with real organizations to tackle real business challenges.

Unlike traditional coursework, CEL practicums are intentionally flexible. Students choose courses aligned with their interests, strengths, and long-term goals.

Students work with a range of organizations, including for-profit companies, nonprofits, startups, and small businesses. These experiences are practical, transferable, and designed to help students build skills, explore industries, and develop confidence in real-world business settings.

Practicums vary in focus and format, but all emphasize:

• Applied problem-solving and decision-making
• Team-based collaboration
• Client engagement and professional communication
• Translating ideas into actionable outcomes

Opportunities range from short, focused engagements to full-semester immersive experiences, allowing students to choose options that align with their interests and goals—without needing to commit to a specific career path.

What Students Gain

Students consistently report increased confidence after completing a CEL practicum. In post-course assessments, confidence increased across key skill areas:

• Interpersonal & Relational Skills – Communicating, collaborating, and working with real organizations
• Decision-Making & Execution – Navigating ambiguity and turning ideas into action
• Leadership – Taking initiative and guiding team-based work
• Reflection & Integration – Connecting classroom learning to real-world experience and future goals

The CEL has been a highlight of my time at WashU. Through working with local businesses, I have learned communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills that will benefit my future career in consulting. I recommend every student to take a CEL course

—Jamie Nicholson