Cooperative Education FAQ for Students and Graduates

Is Cooperative Education an option for all majors?

Almost. Job availability is limited based on your career goals and available job opportunities in your field. Note: Nursing and Health Careers run their own Clinical Programs that should fulfill any experiential learning activities needed.

Cooperative education is required for students enrolled in the following programs:

• Administrative and Information Management,
• Architecture/Construction Technology,
• Automotive Service - ASSET,
• Automotive Service Management - Business Concentration,
• Automotive Service Management - Technical Concentration,
• Electrical Technology (required for all certificates of achievement), and
• Hospitality (Culinary Arts & Hotel/Restaurant Management).

Is the cooperative education job a paid experience?

Yes. Off-campus salaries are set by the employer. The average salary for off-campus positions is currently $11.98 per hour. On-campus positions pay $12.50 per hour.

Is academic credit awarded?

Yes. Students register for, pay for, receive a letter grade for, and receive 1–2 credits upon successful completion of the cooperative education course each semester. A limit of 4 co-op credits per student is enforced.

Is a job guaranteed?

No. You have to meet the requirements set by each employer, go through their interview process and receive an offer of employment. Seek positions early to ensure you are hired in time for registration deadlines.

How long will I work?

There is a mutual agreement by the student and the employer that the job will last for a full semester. This depends on many factors and may be changed under special circumstances. Many students are asked to return to their co-op jobs for additional semesters, which can even lead to permanent positions after graduation.