Workforce Development Certificate Program (WDCP)

*As of July 1, 2019, the Competency-Based (CB) Program is no longer offered

WCSA has shifted to a new Workforce Development Certificate Program (WDCP) and
Pre-High School Equivalency classes to support students looking to earn a diploma.

The Workforce Development Certificate is NOT a High School Equivalency.
It represents completion of the WCSA work skills preparation program.

Call one of our five campus offices to learn more about the individualized opportunities that best suit you.

Workforce Development Certificate (WDC) Program

As a key component of the Hawaii Department of Education's Hawaii Workforce Pathway System, the Community School for Adults continue to increase alignment, integration, and consistent coordination to ensure a clear and coherent path for students. In collaboration with the Workforce Development Council, Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, and the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, employers, and the community colleges, the Workforce Development Certificate Program was initiated.

The Workforce Development Certificate (WDC) Program was designed to meet the needs of those students entering the workforce with job entry that do not require a high school certificate. The WDC Program will prepare students with the necessary basic education and access to job training programs. To be eligible, a student must be 18 years and older or 16 to 17 year old students who are released from school through the 4140 process. All enrolled students who complete the requirements of the program will earn a Workforce Development Certificate.

Where to Start: CASAS Pre-Test Assessment

All new or returning students (after one year of absence) must take an assessment test prior to the start of the class.

Students must register online or in person. Please bring the following items to the assessment test:

A valid picture ID with birth date (State ID, Driver's License, Passport, or Military ID)
Students age 16-17: Approved release papers (Form 4140) from home high school

Module 1: The Academic Section
This module focuses on reading and math for the workplace and professional skills (situational judgment, active listening, problem-solving, effective communication, and conflict resolution). The goal of this module is for students to gain the foundational skills needed to be an effective employee.
Students must complete the following two classes (in any sequence):

Workforce Development Reading
Workforce Development Situational Judgment and Active Listening

Students must also:

attend at least 75% of the total class sessions per class;
complete assigned tasks for each class;
complete a total of 120 hours of combined class time and computer-based learning; and
attain a minimum 5-point scale score gain or an Educational Functioning Level gain as measured on the CASAS/TABE pre- and post-tests.

Module 2: Career Goals
This module is a continued application of work readiness skills which may involve on-the-job training and/or obtainment of the National Work Readiness Credential. The goal of this module is for students to obtain practical application and employability skills (work ethic, leadership, positive attitude, teamwork, etc.).

Students must complete and provide documentation for one of the following choices. The student must:

be employed or volunteer for a minimum of 100 hours within a two- to six-month period from the start of the program (hours must be with the same organization); or
complete the iCAN Program requirements; or
complete a minimum of one credit at an accredited post-secondary institution.

Course Fees

Enrollment Fee: $20 per class
Books/Supplies: Varies