Oceanside, Building 3300: 760.795.6616

www.miracosta.edu/studentservices/servicelearning

Service Learning

The Service Learning Program partners academic instruction with community service. Each semester approximately 60 courses at MiraCosta offer a service component. Students work with their instructors and the Service Learning and Volunteer Center to find meaningful service opportunities in the community that relate to what they are learning in the classroom. MiraCosta's community service placements include youth programs, conservation efforts, homeless and hunger programs, senior services, and literacy programs as well as opportunities within public schools and non-profit organizations. Students can earn a certificate of Service Learning when they complete 15 hours at one site for one course. For a list of approved community partners, go to http://hub.miracosta.edu/servicelearningpartners/.

Through these community placements, students apply classroom knowledge to everyday situations and real problems. They gain practical experience that can help them explore or confirm possible career paths while earning documented work experience. Service learning hours translate into service hours that can be useful when students apply for scholarships or complete transfer applications, professional portfolios, or resumes. In addition, students who participate in service learning discover the value of contributing to their community. Students have reported that these experiences affirm their career paths and provide job opportunities. For more information about the program, including its courses and community partners, students should visit the program's website.

Volunteer Program

Students who are not enrolled in service learning courses can engage with their campus or local community to earn volunteer hours. These experiences are often used to explore career paths, gain hands-on life skills, earn hours for scholarships, or add valuable experiences to their transfer applications. Students can earn two certificates of participation: MiraCosta Service Award (50-99 hours) or MiraCosta Presidential Service Award (100+ hours). For additional one-time volunteer opportunities, students can visit the monthly calendar of volunteer opportunities or check out the list of local community organizations for ongoing service opportunities at http://www.miracosta.edu/studentservices/servicelearning/index.html.