The program is a "Cooperative" effort because it depends upon a collaboration between students, the college, and participating local employers.

COOPERATIVE WORK EXPERIENCE 

 ...Is an effective academic program preparing students, as prospective employees, to meet the workplace needs set by employers in the new millennium.

...Is goal oriented work experience, supported by a employment readiness class and supervised by business leaders and IVC faculty.

...Is open to students in every major or certificate program, technical or non-technical, vocational or college transfer.

...Yes, it can make a significant difference!

WE 201 EMPLOYMENT READINESS (1 unit)

A course that may be taken as a stand-alone or as a companion course related to WE 210 General Work Experience or WE 220 Internship. Skills development in the areas of job search, employer contact, resume writing, applications and cover letter, interviewing techniques, appropriate dress, job-holding practices, and on-site job learning objectives. A review of factors relating to or contributing to job success including motivation, attitude, human relations, leadership, personal, as well as, group relationships and behavior. 

Corequisite: Must be taken in conjunction with WE 201 Employment Readiness Class. Employment or volunteer/unpaid work experience need not be related to the students' educational goal.

WE 220 INTERNSHIP

Corequisite: Must be taken in conjunction with WE80AD Employment Readiness Class.  A course that is supervised employment extending classroom-based occupational learning at an on-the-job learning site relating to the students' educational or occupational goals. 

Students must enroll in a minimum of 7 units, including Cooperative Work Experience. One unit for the Coordinating Class and up to four units for Work Experience may be earned each semester as follows:

PAID OR WORK STUDY                  VOLUNTEER (UNPAID)           

1 unit   =  75 hours                       1 unit   =   60 hours
2 units = 150 hours                       2 units = 120 hours
3 units = 225 hours                       3 units = 180 hours
4 units = 300 hours                       4 units = 240 hours