Work Experience Education

Turn Your Job or Internship into College Credit!

The Work Experience Education (WEE) Program at Golden West College gives students the opportunity to earn college credit for paid or unpaid work experiences related to their educational or career goals. Whether you are completing an internship, building professional experience, or already working in your field, this program allows you to connect real-world learning with your academic journey. WEE can help you make progress toward a certificate, associate degree, or transfer goals while gaining valuable career experience and strengthening your résumé.

How does it work?

The process is simple. Students who secure a job or internship, or are already working, in a field that closely relates to one of GWC’s programs qualify. Follow these three easy steps to turn your current job into Work Experience Education:

1. Complete the required forms:
  • Learner Application:
♦ Under Course Name, enter WORK G100
♦ Under Instructor, choose Fioretto, Doreen
  • Self Pre-Evaluation
• Company/Organization Agreement

2. Enroll in WORK G100. The Career Center will provide the CRN once the forms are approved.
3. Complete your required hours and class requirements while working in your current position and earn college credit!

How many credits can I earn?

Students may earn 1 WEE credit for each 54 hours of work done in your field within the semester, up to a maximum of 4 units per semester. For example:

Work Experience Education Credits
If you work:	You can earn:
27 hours	0.5 WEE unit
54 hours	1 WEE unit
81 hours	1.5 WEE unit
108 hours	2 WEE units
135 hours	2.5 WEE units
162 hours	3 WEE units
189 hours	3.5 WEE units
216 hours	4 WEE units

You can earn up to a total of 16 WEE units towards a degree or certificate throughout your time at GWC!

*Note: Students must select the number of units and hours they will complete upon signing up for the course and cannot change during the semester.

How does this program benefit me?

As a student in Golden West College’s Work Experience Education (WEE) program, you will:

Enhance your job skills and become a stronger candidate for promotions and career growth.
Increase your supervisor’s awareness of your professional and academic goals.
Apply new concepts and strategies gained from classroom instruction directly to your job.
Earn college credit that moves you closer to completing a certificate or degree.

How does this program benefit my employer?

When employers support participation in GWC’s WEE program, they can:

Reduce employee turnover by improving job satisfaction and engagement.
Lower training expenses by utilizing WEE resources and support services.
Strengthen communication and relationships with employees.
Help meet employees’ personal and professional development goals through tailored performance objectives.
Promote collaboration and the exchange of knowledge between industry and education.

For more information on how you can find a position to earn college credits on the job, please visit the GWC Career Center website or contact the GWC Career Center at (714) 895-8217.