Did you know you can earn college credits for learning that takes place where you work? Both paid and unpaid positions qualify.

“Work experience education (WRKX) helps students apply their classroom experience to real-world settings. Work-based learning helps students connect what they are taught to their future career path,” said Marisa Greenberg, the work experience program coordinator at Diablo Valley College.

Applying classroom learning to a work setting is truly worthwhile. Some students may find the experience confirms their chosen career path, while others may discover that a different path would be a better fit. In addition, a WRKX class can help a student maintain full-time status while also enhancing a student’s grade point average.

“WRKX classes are for students who have a job or internship. Students must work at least ten hours per week to qualify. We offer WRKX classes in about 15 academic programs,” said Greenberg.

Each student must attend an in-person orientation. Students work one-on-one with a DVC instructor to craft learning objectives that align with their job or internship. Class requirements include two progress reports and a final paper. In addition, the DVC instructor will confer with the student’s supervisor at the job site.

Work Experience is offered in the fall, spring and summer terms. Late-start classes are also available during the fall and spring. To earn credit for the term, students must work at least 120 unpaid hours OR 150 paid hours. For more information, visit www.dvc.edu/coop.

Am I eligible?

• You must already have a job or internship.
• Your position can be paid or unpaid.
• You must work at least 10 hours per week throughout the term.

Why take a WRKX class?

• Grow your employability and leadership skills.
• Apply classroom learning in a real-world setting.
• Build your resume.
• Enhance your grade point average.
• Maintain full-time status.
• Earn credits that transfer to CSU.

Which class should I take?

• WRKX-160: For students whose current job does not relate to their academic and/or career goal.
• WRKX-170: For students whose current job relates to their academic and/or career goal.
• WRKX-180: For students working in a paid/unpaid internship or volunteer position that relates to their academic and/or career goal.
• 295 Course Series: For students whose current degree/certificate requires a discipline-specific work-based learning course. (Example: CULN 295)
• 296 Course Series: For students whose current degree/certificate requires a discipline-specific paid/unpaid internship or volunteer position. (Example: CULN 296)

How do I get started?

• Register for a WRKX class.
• Complete a WRKX Employment Information Form.
• Attend an in-person orientation.