Co-op Education

Cooperative education (co-op) is an educational model that integrates full-time, paid work terms with academic study terms in an alternating pattern. Unlike traditional internships, co-op programs are deeply embedded in the curriculum and typically extend the degree by 1-2 semesters. Northeastern University, University of Waterloo (Canada), and Drexel University are among the best-known co-op programs. Co-op students typically complete 3-5 work terms totaling 12-18 months of professional experience before graduation, providing significant advantages in the job market and often resulting in job offers from co-op employers.