Gain Work Experience While You Earn College Credit
College of the Desert's Work Experience Education Program is a unique academic program
where students apply what they have learned in the classroom to a real work environment
- all while earning college credit.
By enrolling in a Work Experience course, students will participate in experiential
learning activities that will enhance their skill set and strengthen effective work
habits. Additionally, students enrolled in a Work Experience course have the opportunity
to be coached and mentored by a faculty member as a subject matter expert in the student's
field of study.
How It Works
Students may enroll in a General or an Occupational Work Experience course via Self
Service based on their educational goal and current job-related duties:
General Work Experience
(WEG, XXX-095A) is for students who currently have a job placement that does not directly
align with their educational/occupational goal. This course is designed to help students
develop individual career and workplace awareness.
Occupational Work Experience
(i.e. AUTO-095A, AGEH-095A, CDE-095A, etc.) is for students who currently have a job
placement that directly aligns with his/her educational occupational goal.
Hour Requirements
Work Experience courses allow students to earn up to a maximum of 5 units per semester,
based on the hours the student will be working or interning during the enrollment
term. Please reference the Work Experience Guide for enrollment details.
Note: Some accademic programs may only require 2 units. Always consult with an academic
advisor or couselor.
1 unit = 54 required hours
2 units = 108 required hours
3 units = 162 required hours
4 units = 216 required hours
5 units = 270 required hours
Benefits for Students
Students who participate in the Work Experience Education Program:
Receive CSU transferable college credit
Get a glimpse into their chosen career field and receive career guidance from a faculty
advisor
Practice setting goals that are meaningful to their career readiness
Learn how to use performance evaluations for continued growth and improvement
Enhance their resume
Gain a better understanding of human relations in the workplace
Network with professionals and future employers
Apply 21st-century employability skills
What to Expect Out of a Work Experience Class
Work Experience classes are non-traditional - the majority of the work is completed
at the student's job site!
Students meet a total of four (4) times during the course; two on campus with their
Work Experience Instructor, and two at the student’s job site with their Work Experience
Instructor and supervisor.
During the course, students will develop and work on three (3) S.M.A.R.T. goals/objectives
in addition to current job expectations and requirements.
Students will have the opportunity to apply and enhance the following 21st-century
Employability Skills:
Adaptability
Self-Awareness
Digital Fluency
Communication
Collaboration
Empathy
Analysis/Solution Mindset
Resilience
Entrepreneurial Mindset
Social/Diversity Awareness
Students will participate in a Final Job Site Evaluation where they will receive valuable
feedback from their supervisor related to the completion of the three SMART goals
and their application of the 10 Employability Skills listed above.
All course content is available via Canvas 24/7 - giving students the flexibility
of time!