Academic Recognition for International Work Experience

If you have decided to participate in an international work experience, there are several alternatives for receiving academic recognition. This often depends on your degree or circumstances. Questions you need to consider are:

  • Does my degree offer a subject that recognises work experience?
  • How do I find out more?

Core Subjects

To determine if your program offer core subjects that acknowledge work experience, go to the Western Sydney University Handbook page and enter your Course Name or Code on the search function. From here you should be able to review your program structure and the subjects offered in your program. Alternatively, you can contact the Director of Academic Program (DAP) for further advice.

If you are allowed to participate in a relevant subject, you will be required to register and complete assessments to receive recognition for the experience. You will need to discuss the international work experience with the Academic Program Advisor in charge of the subject.

If your program does not offer a subject that recognises work experience, see ELECTIVES below.

Elective Subjects

Depending on your program, you may be able to select outside of core or compulsory subjects. Electives can be chosen from all program available at Western that do not have any other conditions, such as program requisites.

To determine if your program allows participation in electives, go to the Western Sydney University Handbook page and enter your Program Name. From here you should be able to determine if your program offers electives. Alternatively, you can contact the Director of Academic Program (DAP) for further advice.

How do I find an appropriate elective?

  1. Go to Western Sydney University program and subject Handbook 
  2. Select ‘Subject Search’
  3. Enter ‘Placement’ or ‘Internship’ or ‘Practicum’

If you identify an appropriate unit, you may need permission from the relevant Academic Program Advisor to register in the class. It is also recommended that you seek further advice from your DAP about the subject. Once permission is received, you will be required to register and complete assessments to receive recognition for the work experience.

Unspecified Academic Credit

Some work experience providers, partner with American universities and offer an academic transcript – this is called a ‘School of Record’. The transcript is awarded based on assessment tasks including the successful completion of written academic assignments, evidence of reflective learning, and an evaluation from the host organisation.

You may be able to receive ‘unspecified academic credit’ if you enrol at the overseas university and receive the academic transcript. The amount of credit awarded, often depends on the length of the work experience (e.g., 10 or 20 credit points).

How do I receive unspecified academic credit?

  1. Speak to the work experience provider and find out if they have a ‘School of Record’.
  2. Talk to your Director of Academic Program (DAP) for advice about your degree:
  • Can you receive unspecified academic credit to replace a core subject? Or alternatively
  • Can you receive unspecified academic credit for an elective?

If this option is available, you will be required to complete a credit approval for non-exchange: https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/globalmobility/goglobal/home/apply_to_go/academic_approval_non-exchange

Consultation with Western Staff

Feel free to contact the partner organisation and asks questions about your potential experience. If you would like to discuss an opportunity with a member of staff at Western Sydney University , please email goglobal@westernsydney.edu.au or book a Consultation via our  dedicated bookings portal.