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Student FAQs

This article provides a comprehensive FAQ for WGU's optional co-curricular Riipen experience for students.

Updated over 2 months ago

Program Overview

General Program Information

What is the WGU + Riipen micro-internship experience?

This is a hands-on opportunity for WGU School of Technology learners to gain real-world experience by working on short-term projects from real companies through the Riipen platform. It’s designed to help you apply your knowledge, build your résumé, and grow your professional confidence—outside of your regular coursework.

Projects run from June 30 to August 25, 2025, and require 40–60 hours to complete. While you may finish in 4 weeks, you’ll have up to 8 weeks. Since you'll be working with a real U.S. employer, please only apply if you can commit during this period.

Is this required for my degree?

No. This is an optional, co-curricular experience. It is not eligible for credit. It is also not required for credit or graduation. It is a valuable way to enhance your skills, career readiness, and qualifications for future career opportunities.

Who is eligible to participate?

Riipen projects are available through WGU’s Career & Professional Development for active WGU School of Technology learners currently enrolled in the Cybersecurity and Information Assurance bachelor’s program who are:

  • Actively enrolled in the B.S. Cybersecurity and Information Assurance at the start of the project (not graduated)

  • Meeting Satisfactory Academic Progress (completion of 66.67% of competency units attempted)

  • Successful completion of the following courses is also required (courses cannot be in progress at the time of application):

    • D322 Introduction to IT

    • D317 IT Application

    • D333 Ethics in Technology

    • D316 IT Foundations

    • D278 Scripting and Programming – Foundations

    • D430 Fundamentals of Information Security

    • D315 Network and Security – Foundations

    • C841 Legal Issues in Information Security

    • D325 Networks

    • D336 Business of IT – Applications

    • C844 Emerging Technologies in Cybersecurity

    • D325 Network and Security – Applications

  • Further Qualification Requirements:

    • May participate in only 1 active project at a time

Can I participate if I’m graduating during the project timeline?

Yes, as long as you are meeting SAP and have completed the required courses, you can participate if you are graduating after the project begins.

What if I’m still completing some required courses or not meeting SAP currently?

If you have not successfully completed the list of courses or are not meeting SAP, you are not eligible to apply.

What is “Satisfactory Academic Progress”?

More information about Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) can be found here.

Will this project count toward my capstone?

No, this project will not count toward your capstone or be eligible for academic credit.

Will I be automatically considered for future projects or do I need to reapply?

For future projects, if they are offered, you will need to reapply. We will send additional information via your student email to update you about upcoming projects.

Why are there only 25 spots?

This is a pilot program. We anticipate increasing offerings in the future, as resources allow.


Application Process

When does the application open and close?

The application will open on Tuesday, June 3rd and close on Sunday, June 8th at 5pm MT.

How many applicants will be selected?

25 applicants will be selected.

What happens if I apply after the June 8th deadline?

Your application will not be considered.

How competitive is the selection process?

The selection process is very competitive as there are only 25 spots available.

What is required for the application? Will I need a resume or other documents?

No resume or cover letter is required. You will need to submit responses to a few brief questions. The application information and form will be sent to your WGU Student email.

How are applicants evaluated?

Eligible applicants are evaluated on the strength and clarity of their application answers.

How do I apply? Where is the application form?

You will receive an email on June 3rd with the application information, including a link to the application form.

Can I edit or update my application after submitting?

No, you cannot edit or update your application after it is submitted.

When will I hear back about my application status?

You will hear back about your application the week of June 16th via your student email.

Will there be interviews or additional screening?

No, there will not be interviews or additional screening.

Will I be notified if I am not selected?

Yes, you will be notified the week of June 16th if you are not selected.

Will I receive feedback on my application or reasons for denial?

Due to the large volume of applicants and the competitive nature of the program, individual feedback or reasons for denial will not be provided. Eligible applicants will be evaluated on the strength and clarity of their application answers.


Project Experience

What kinds of projects are available?

The following are examples of potential project options. Actual projects may vary based on employer needs but will be pre-approved by WGU to ensure alignment with your curriculum and skill development.

Cybersecurity & Risk Management

  • Conducting a Basic Cybersecurity Risk Assessment for a Small Business

  • Security Policy Review and Recommendations for Compliance (e.g., NIST, ISO)

  • Creating a Cybersecurity Awareness Training Plan for Employees

  • Developing an Incident Response Playbook for Common Security Threats

  • Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCDR) Plan

Networking & Infrastructure

  • Network Security Audit and Hardening Recommendations

  • Mapping and Evaluating Network Topologies for Security Risks

  • Firewall and Access Control Rule Set Review for a Simulated Company Network

  • Setting Up and Testing a Virtual Private Network (VPN) in a Lab Environment

System Security

  • Operating System Hardening and Vulnerability Mitigation Report (Windows/Linux)

  • User Access Control and Role-Based Permissions Analysis

  • Secure Configuration of a Client-Server Environment (Using Virtual Machines)

Security Tools & Practices

  • Testing and Documenting the Use of an Intrusion Detection System (IDS)

  • Log Monitoring and Analysis to Detect Potential Security Incidents

  • Encryption Demo and Use-Case Recommendations for Data at Rest vs. In Transit

Compliance & Governance

  • Creating a Cybersecurity Compliance Checklist for HIPAA or PCI-DSS

  • Audit Readiness Assessment: Preparing for a Security Audit

  • Aligning IT Policies with Organizational Security Goal

How long do projects take?

Projects are designed to be completed in 40-60 hours, within 4-8 weeks. These experiences are built to be flexible, so you can fit them around your coursework and personal schedule. Projects must start by June 30, 2025 and be completed by August 25, 2025.

What kind of support will I get?

Each project includes clear instructions and deliverables. You’ll also have access to the Riipen support team, your project employer, and in some cases, WGU Career & Professional Development. While these are independent projects, they’re designed to be approachable and achievable without needing extensive supervision.

Will I work alone or on a team?

Projects are designed for individual participation.

What companies or employers are involved?

The companies offering projects through Riipen vary, but they typically include small to mid-sized businesses, non-profits, startups, and mission-driven organizations seeking support with real-world cybersecurity challenges. All employers are vetted by Riipen to ensure the projects align with WGU's program goals and provide meaningful, achievable experiences for learners.

What is the estimated time commitment per week?

Projects are designed to take 40–60 hours total, completed over 4–8 weeks. This generally means planning for about 5–10 hours per week. While the work is self-paced and flexible to fit your schedule, it's important to manage your time and stay responsive—employers rely on timely communication and steady progress.

What does “active participation” in the first week mean?

Active participation in the first week means logging into the Riipen platform, reviewing your project details, communicating with your project employer, and beginning work on your assigned tasks. It’s important to show early engagement so the employer knows you’re committed and ready to contribute. Delayed communication or inactivity may result in removal from the project.

What happens after I select a project?

Once you select a project on Riipen, you’ll be connected with the employer through the platform and gain access to the project materials. Before reaching out, take a few minutes to review what’s available so you understand the goals and expectations. Then, send a friendly and professional introductory message that shows your interest and initiative—it’s a great chance to make a strong first impression. From there, you’ll begin working independently, check in with the employer as needed, and submit your final deliverables by the project deadline.

What if I am unavailable for some part of the project timeline?

If you know you’ll be unavailable during part of the project timeline, it’s important to plan ahead and communicate early with your project employer. These projects are designed to be flexible, but employers are counting on steady progress and timely delivery. If your schedule will prevent you from completing the project on time, it may be best to wait for a future opportunity.

Is there a kickoff or orientation session?

Yes, there is an orientation session on Monday, June 24th at 2:00-3:00pm MT to provide you with more information about the projects, the platform, and to answer any question along with meeting the other students participating in these projects. This session will be recorded if you are unable to attend. The link to register will be sent to accepted applicants.

Will I have a mentor or support during the project?

While these are independent, self-guided projects, you won’t be on your own. You’ll have access to the Riipen support team through chat or email, and your project employer is available to answer questions and provide guidance along the way. For general program support, WGU Career & Professional Development is also here to help.


Riipen Platform Access

How do I access the Riipen platform?

Eligible learners will have completed a minimum of two program terms and passed a competitive screening process by WGU Career & Professional Development. WGU learners will receive an invitation to join Riipen through the WGU Riipen portal. Once registered, you can create a profile, browse projects, and start applying. Visit Starting and Completing a Project for more information.

What do I need to do to get started?

Once you create your Riipen account and join the WGU portal, you’ll be able to browse available projects. From there:

  1. Pick a project that interests you.

  2. Send your employer an intro message describing your skillset.

  3. You can begin working and submit your final deliverables on Riipen according to the project timeline (June 30 – August 25, 2025). While final deliverables may be submitted in as little as 4 weeks, you’ll have up to 8 weeks to complete the project.

  4. Visit Starting and Completing a Project for more information.

How do I create my Riipen account and self-assign to a project?

Please follow the instructions here to create your account and self-assign to a project. For additional support with your account and self-assigning to a project, please contact wgu@riipen.com or create a help-ticket by using the avocado button in the bottom right of the screen.

What if I don’t self-assign by the deadline?

If you do not self-assign by the deadline, you will lose your spot and be removed from the platform.

Can I switch projects after selecting?

No, you cannot switch projects after selecting.

How do I know I’ve successfully joined a project or team?

Once you’ve successfully joined a project on Riipen, you’ll see the project listed under “My Projects” with your assigned project visible. Ensure you sign program agreements, complete the pre-survey, and hit the “start project” button. You’ll also receive a confirmation email from Riipen, and your connection with the employer will be active so you can start communicating. If you’re unsure, you can always check your dashboard or reach out to Riipen support for confirmation.


Outcomes and Recognition

Will I get feedback or a grade?

Since this is not for academic credit, you won’t receive a grade—but many organizations do provide feedback on your work. You’ll also receive a completion certification and digital badge.

Can I list this on my résumé or portfolio?

After completing your project, you’ll receive an achievement badge, a certificate of completion and employer feedback. You can include this project in your résumé, LinkedIn profile, and e-portfolio, along with examples of your final deliverables.

Can I get a certificate or badge for completing the project?

Yes, you will receive a certificate and badge from Riipen once you successfully complete the project.


Waitlist Process

What does being on the waitlist mean?

If you are on the waitlist, you may be selected for the project if another student is unable to participate in the project.

When and how will I be notified if a spot opens?

You will be notified before July 7th if you are moved off of the waitlist.

Should I do anything while on the waitlist?

No, there is nothing that you need to do while on the waitlist besides check your email to see if you've been moved off of the waitlist.


Support and Troubleshooting

Who can I contact if I have questions or need help?

If you have questions about the Riipen platform or your project experience, you can reach out to Riipen’s support team via their chat (the avocado button on the bottom right corner of every Riipen page) or email wgu@riipen.com. For general questions about the WGU co-curricular program, please contact internships@wgu.edu.

Who do I contact if I have questions or issues?

Please contact internships@wgu.edu for any questions regarding the application or eligibility. Once you have been selected and are active in the program, please contact wgu@riipen.com.

How confidential is my information?

Your application information is reviewed by Career & Professional Development. Riipen and the employer sponsors will only receive your first name, last name, and email address to provide you access to the platform.

What happens if I need to withdraw or drop out?

If you need to withdraw from the project, please contact internships@wgu.edu and wgu@riipen.com immediately. We will work with you to identify a path forward. Withdrawing from the project may result in not being eligible for future projects.

Who do I contact to report allegations of harassment or discrimination?

Please report allegations of harassment or discrimination to WGU’s Title IX Coordinators or through Speak Up WGU. More information regarding WGU’s Student Equal Opportunity, Harassment, and Nondiscrimination Policy and Process can be accessed here.

  • WGU Title IX Contact Information:

    • Rochelle Sydnor Kahl, Title IX Coordinator

    • Danile Eldredge, Deputy Title IX Coordinator


Post-Selection and Future Opportunities

Why wasn’t I selected?

We received many more applications than spots available, so eligible applicants were evaluated on the strength and clarity of their application answers.

How can I improve my chances for next time?

Make sure you meet all eligibility requirements, apply early, and provide thoughtful, detailed responses in your application.

Are there other ways to gain hands-on cybersecurity experience?

Yes, check the WGU Experience page for more experiential learning opportunities, such as micro-internships, online simulations, internships, and more.

Will there be more projects like this in the future?

We hope to offer similar opportunities again. We will send additional information via your student email to update you about upcoming projects.

How can I stay informed about upcoming opportunities?

Watch your WGU student email and check the Career & Professional Development announcements regularly.

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