Community Work-Study Program

About the CWS Program


The SHSU Community Work-Study (CWS) program is funded through the Federal Work-Study (FWS) program, administered by the SHSU Office of Financial Aid, and managed by the SHSU Center for Community Engagement (CCE). This federal program provides students with financial need the opportunity to earn their federal aid award through part-time placements to help meet their educational costs.  

The purpose of the CWS program is to actively engage SHSU students and community organizations in a mutually beneficial relationship. Through this program, partner organizations provide college students with the opportunity to apply their academic knowledge while developing valuable workforce skills and dispositions. This program is not intended to function as a part-time job; it is a way for students to earn their financial aid award while giving back to the community. Partner organizations receive support to assist with accomplishing their missions in service of the community. 

Community Work-Study placements are designed to improve the quality of life for community residents, particularly low-income individuals, or to solve problems related to their needs.  

Placements can include opportunities in fields such as healthcare, childcare, literacy training, education, social services, public safety, crime prevention and control, recreation, rural development, community improvement, and emergency preparedness and response.  

For Students


You can gain career-relevant skills, knowledge, and experience through a Community Work-Study placement. Relevant work experiences can be a meaningful part of your educational journey. Learn about career opportunities and develop professional relationships when you apply textbook knowledge to real-world problems through Community Work-Study.

Employers hiring college graduates look for applicants who have relevant work experience—start building your professional resume now as a student! 

Community Work-Study offers you the opportunity to: 
  • Earn your Work-Study award through a meaningful placement with a community partner organization including nonprofits, government agencies and school districts. 
  • Work in a position related to your career field to add to your resume 
  • Become familiar with the real-world work environment 
  • Develop career readiness competencies  
Community Work-Study Placement Process: 
  • Apply through the Community Work-Study job posting (Fill out interest form linked above)
  • Identify preferred placement opportunities 
  • Interview with CCE 
Expectations: 
  • Be a full-time, degree-seeking student and meet Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements. 
  • Commit to work with the partner organization for a minimum of one semester. 
  • Work between 10 and 19 hours per week. 
  • Be reliable, professional, and willing to learn. 
  • Participate in professional development opportunities

Potential Placements


For Partner Organizations


The CCE is the primary contact for the CWS program. Working directly with partner organizations, the CCE will recruit, hire, and manage community work study students at no cost to your organization. We believe this hands-on, direct service will provide a seamless and meaningful experience for both our partner organizations and the students. To learn more about the program and how to host student placements, please call 936-294-4559.