LEARN WHILE YOU EARN - EDUCATION THAT WORKS!
Work Experience Education (WEE) is an instructional program that supports the concept that learning happens everywhere and is not limited to the classroom. WEE helps students earn college credit by connecting classroom-based learning in an actual work environment.
You can earn up to 14 units of college credit per semester while at work. You can earn credit even if you are a volunteer or self-employed. WEE courses apply to an Associate’s Degree and transfer to California State Universities as elective credit.
To enroll, you must already be employed. Additionally, your supervisor will need to agree to participating
All WEE students are required to attend an orientation upon enrolling in the course. The instructor will communicate the date and time of the first orientation at the beginning of the semester.
You, along with your employer or supervisor, will develop a Learning Objective (LO) for each credit. The LO is a measurable goal you will set for yourself to ensure expanded learning opportunities while working. The CWEE instructor will meet together with you and your supervisor near the middle of the semester to check on your progress toward the LO. At the end of the semester, your will write a self-evaluation and the supervisor will also submit an evaluation.
Do I need a job in order to enroll in WEE?
Yes, you need to either be employed in a paid job or work as a volunteer. Student Worker positions qualify you for WEE. You can also be self-employed.
What will my supervisor need to do?
Your supervisor will have to agree to work with you to develop your Learning Objectives, to read and sign various electronic documents, and to meet with the WEE instructor and you to discuss your progress toward the Learning Objectives.
Will the college help me find a job?
Please contact the Mendocino College Career Hub for assistance with finding a job.
Can I enroll in CWEE if I am self-employed?
Yes, a person who is self-employed is eligible for WEE, as long as they can develop learning objectives that new knowledge and/or skills or improvements in what they know and do. As a self-employed person, you will need to have someone supervise your progress in achieving your learning objectives. Your CWEE instructor can help you with this.
What if my job is out of the area? Can I still enroll in WEE at Mendocino College?
Yes, as long as there is a reliable way for the WEE instructor to confirm your employment and communicate with your supervisor.
Do I have to be enrolled in other courses at the college in order to enroll in WEE?
No. Students can enroll in WEE without enrolling in other courses.
How late in the semester can I enroll in WEE?
Typically, students can enroll in CWEE up to about a month before the end of the semester, at the discretion of the CWEE instructor. The specific date varies by semester; contact the WEE instructor for the cut-off date for this semester.
Do I have to attend weekly classes for WEE?
No. Follow the instructions in your Canvas account.
Can I repeat CWEE courses for credit?
Yes. There is no cumulative limit to WEE credits.
Does credit earned by taking WEE courses apply to a degree? Does the credit transfer?
Yes. WEE units apply to your degree like any other elective credit. WEE 196 units transfer to the California State University system, and to many private universities.
