Cooperative Education (Co-op)

The Career Development Center offers great opportunities for students wishing to gain experience in their field of study while working toward their degree. Cooperative Education (Co-op) provides a mutually beneficial relationship among an organization, educational institution, and a student. In this relationship, students combine academic study with periods of career-related work experience in business, government or not-for-profit agencies under the supervision of the employer.

These opportunities provide a tremendous benefit to both students and employers. Students have an opportunity to explore their career path prior to graduation. Employers can preview talented students, who are studying the most recent technology. Click on the appropriate link to find out more about Cooperative Education at SIUE.

Types of Co-op

Alternating Co-op: Students may work full-time every other semester (or no more than 2 semesters back-to back), alternating between full-time work assignments, and full-time enrollment in school.

Parallel Co-op: Students may work part-time year around while attending school full or part-time.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Co-op qualifies for "Curricular Practical Training" for International Students.

For enrollment certification purposes, SIUE sponsored Co-op participation is considered equivalent to full time enrollment. Formal enrollment in an approved Co-op course through the Career Development Center is required.