Undergraduate Experiential Learning
Students in the Education Department at UC Santa Cruz often pursue hands-on learning opportunities, allowing them to gain real-world experience and apply the knowledge and skills they’ve learned in the classroom. Some of these experiences provide students with the chance to engage directly with educational institutions and organizations, both locally and abroad, enhancing their understanding of educational systems and practices.
Paid opportunities
Internships and volunteering
Corre La Voz
UC Santa Cruz undergraduates can earn elective credits toward their education major or minor while serving as mentors in the Corre La Voz after-school program for bilingual 4th and 5th graders at Bay View Elementary School.
To join the program, new mentors must be concurrently enrolled in both the introductory course, EDUC/OAKS 151A: Corre la Voz: Community Literacies and Power Seminar, and the practicum course, EDUC/OAKS 151B: Community Literacies Field Study, for a total of 5 units. After their initial quarter in the program, undergraduates can then re-enroll repeatedly in EDUC/OAKS 151B to continue serving as mentors. Find more information on the Oakes College website, and for questions or enrollment codes, contact program director Leslie Lopez.
Study abroad
Students interested in studying abroad through programs like UCEAP should have the courses for their intended program reviewed and approved by the Education Department prior to departure. Up to two relevant courses taken through study abroad programs from which credits are transferable to UCSC may be used toward satisfaction of the Education, Democracy, and Justice B.A. elective requirements, if approved by the Education Department. You can find out more about study abroad opportunities through UCSC Global Learning.
UC Center Sacramento (UCCS)
The UC Center Sacramento (UCCS) offers a unique academic internship program in public policy, blending academics, research, and public service just steps from California’s State Capitol. Open to education, democracy, and justice majors and available year-round, UCCS connects students with opportunities to intern in government offices, state agencies, and influential organizations. Participants gain hands-on experience in policymaking, expand their professional networks, and explore diverse fields. Past internships include roles with the governor’s office, the state legislature, and advocacy groups, fostering impactful careers in public service.