Top 15 Colleges with Co-op Programs

Colleges with co-op programs offer a great way for students to blend hands-on learning with their regular studies. These programs are perfect for those who want to gain real-world experience while earning their degree. Sadly, not many schools across the country offer this type of learning in their curriculum, as most colleges and universities stick to traditional academic methods.

By working while you study, you pick up a range of skills and practical knowledge that set you apart when you enter the job market. This gives you a better understanding of what truly happens in the real world of work while still being enrolled. While others might only have classroom knowledge, you’ll have real-world experience under your belt.

In this blog, we list the top colleges with co-op programs in the country, including the factors that make you eligible for such programs. We also provide a detailed distinction between co-op programs and internships and why a co-op program may just be for you.

• What Is A Co-op Program?
• US Universities and Colleges with Co-op Programs
• Co-Op vs Internship: How Are They Different?
• What Are the Benefits of Co-Op Programs?
• Is Cooperative Education for You?
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

What Is A Co-op Program?

Cooperative (or co-op) education is a college program that lets students apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to a real job. This usually happens during a student’s junior or senior year, and they typically work in a role related to their field of study.

A co-op program is typically a partnership between an employer, a university, and a student. It’s designed to give students in-depth, real-world work experience over an extended period. 

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to how co-op programs are structured. Each university and company might handle co-ops differently, which can be a bit confusing. However, the upside is that this flexibility allows you to tailor the program in a way that works best for your organization.

US Universities and Colleges with Co-op Programs

Here is a comprehensive list of US universities and colleges that offer cooperative education and how you can be eligible for such programs:

A closer look at some of the colleges with co-op programs:

1. Cornell University

It may be surprising that Cornell is one of colleges with co-op programs. This is because most of the top schools do not necessarily practice cooperative education as they typically follow the traditional track. 

Cornell University is a private Ivy League institution and serves as the land-grant university for New York State. Its mission is to “discover, preserve, and share knowledge, educate future global leaders, and foster a culture of exploration within and beyond the Cornell community.” Cornell also focuses on improving lives through public service.

Although Cornell is not widely recognized for its co-op programs, the university does offer co-op opportunities through the College of Engineering. These options are available for:

• All 14 engineering majors
• Computer Science and Information Science majors in the College of Arts & Sciences

2. Elon University

Elon University places a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and encourages students to engage in global experiences, service, leadership, internships, and research. To make room for these opportunities, Elon focuses on offering fewer but more intensive classes making it one of the top colleges with co-op programs.

Elon’s co-op program is somewhat unique and functions more like an internship. Students can earn elective credit for their co-op experience, though it does not count towards their major or minor. If a co-op is related to a student’s major or minor, it must be approved by the department to count as an internship.

The co-op is graded like a regular course, and standard tuition fees apply. Students need to work at least 40 hours for each credit earned during the term. Most students use the co-op to explore their career interests. Co-ops can be done in any semester and are included in the student’s full-time tuition.

3. Northeastern University

Another on the list of colleges with co-op programs is Northeastern University. It prepares students to become innovative problem solvers and entrepreneurs through a blend of coursework, co-op jobs, research, global study, and service. This hands-on approach helps you develop the skills to make a real impact in the world of work.

Northeastern’s co-op program, one of the oldest and largest in the country, dates back to 1909. With opportunities in 148 countries across various fields, it adds a global dimension to the university’s 270 undergraduate majors and 170 combined majors.

An impressive 93% of Northeastern graduates find employment or enroll in graduate school within nine months of graduating. While co-op isn’t mandatory, most students participate, and all must complete some form of experiential learning.

4. Drexel University

The next on the list of colleges with co-op programs is Drexel University. It has been a leader in co-op programs since 1919. It has one of the largest programs in the U.S. Over 1,650 businesses, government agencies, and other organizations partner with Drexel to give students hands-on work experience related to their studies.

The university’s International Co-op program offers students the chance to live and work abroad. Participants come from different majors and have worked in countries like Brazil, China, Greece, Ireland, India, and Japan. An impressive 94% of Drexel graduates find employment or continue their education within a year of graduation.

5. Georgia Institute of Technology.

The Georgia Institute of Technology, often called Georgia Tech, is a public research university popular for its focus on technology and innovation. Ranked among the top 10 public universities, it offers over 130 majors and minors and is one of the best colleges with co-op programs.

Georgia Tech has been running its co-op program since 1912. Today, more than 4,100 students are involved in its five-year co-op programs, which cover engineering, science, and business majors. Students in these programs work for at least three alternating semesters.

6. Northwestern University

Another top contender of the colleges with co-op programs, Northwestern University’s Walter P. Murphy Cooperative Engineering Education Program offers students the chance to earn a prestigious engineering degree while gaining up to 18 months of industry experience with one or two employers.

During their co-op periods, students are enrolled in a non-credit course to keep their full-time student status. This helps them maintain coverage under their family’s health insurance at student rates and prevents their student loans from going into repayment. Additionally, co-op students often receive a tuition discount during their final year, usually the fifth year of their program.

Co-op vs Internship: How Are They Different?

According to Indeed, a career guide website, the main difference between a co-op and an internship is the time commitment. Internships are shorter, usually lasting about one semester, and are often completed over the summer. Many students do multiple internships during college to gain experience in different roles. Co-ops, on the other hand, are longer-term commitments, with your responsibilities growing as you advance in your education.

Let’s take a look at the breakdown of the differences (and similarities) between co-op vs internship:

What Are the Benefits of Co-op Programs?

A co-op education from the colleges with co-op programs offers students several practical benefits, including:

• Improved academic performance. Gaining relevant on-the-job experience before you graduate often leads to better performance in the classroom.
• Income without affecting financial aid. You can earn money to help pay for college without reducing your eligibility for need-based financial aid, as co-op wages don’t count toward your Expected Family Contribution. Plus, you might be able to reduce federal taxes on your co-op income.
• Seamless transition to a career. Co-op experience from colleges with co-op programs gives you a head start in developing both hard and soft skills. This makes the shift from college to career much smoother.
• Stronger resumes. Students who complete co-ops graduate with more impressive resumes, which can help them land jobs and gain acceptance into top graduate schools.
• Potential job offers. Many co-op students are offered positions by their co-op employers which allow both parties to test the waters before committing.
• New experiences. Co-op students may have the opportunity to live in a new part of the country or even abroad.
• Professional exposure. Some co-op students get to experience business travel and attend professional conferences.

Is Cooperative Education For You?

If you’re interested in working for the same company throughout your time in school, a cooperative education program from colleges with co-op programs might be a great fit for you. In a co-op position, you’ll work full-time and typically stay with the same company for the duration of your studies.

Keep in mind that participating in a co-op program may extend the time it takes to complete your degree. Students in these programs often take about five years to finish a four-year degree because they need to balance their coursework with their co-op work. This, however, will depend on your school’s policy.

Co-op programs usually offer two types of schedules: alternating and parallel. With an alternating schedule, you’ll work full-time for one semester and attend classes the next. A parallel schedule lets you work part-time while attending classes during the same semester.

If you choose a parallel schedule, you’ll generally work between 15 and 25 hours a week. As you advance in your studies, your responsibilities in the co-op role are likely to increase as well.

Furthermore, if you are greatly considering cooperative education, here are a few things to consider:

• Time commitment. Depending on the schedule, you might work full-time (40 hours per week) during a co-op term or part-time (15-25 hours per week) if you’re following a parallel schedule.
• Course load. Balancing co-op work with coursework can be challenging. On alternating schedules, you’ll work for one semester and attend classes the next, which can impact your academic progression and availability of certain courses.
• Academic performance. Some studies suggest that co-op students may experience improved academic performance due to the practical experience gained, but managing both work and study requires strong time-management skills.
• Earnings. Co-op positions often offer competitive salaries. According to a 2023 NACE survey, the average hourly wage for co-op students in the U.S. is around $20 to $25. This income can help cover living expenses and reduce the need for student loans.
• Tuition: Many institutions do not charge tuition during the co-op term, but students from colleges with co-op programs are still responsible for room and board if they live in university housing.
• Industry experience. Co-op programs provide hands-on experience in your field of study, which can enhance your resume. About 60% of co-op students receive job offers from their co-op employers, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).
• Responsibilities. Co-op students generally start with entry-level tasks, but responsibilities usually increase as they progress in their education and gain more experience.
• GPA and academic standing. Many co-op programs require a minimum GPA, often around 2.5 to 3.0, and completion of certain coursework. Ensure you meet these criteria before applying.
• Program fit. Consider whether the co-op program aligns with your career goals and whether you are willing to commit to the extended timeline and work requirements.
• Extended graduation time. As mentioned, co-op programs may extend your time in college. Consider whether you’re comfortable with this additional time commitment.
• Work-life balance. Balancing full-time work with academic responsibilities can be demanding. Be prepared for the potential strain on your time and energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is co-op in college?

Cooperative education is a college program that gives students the chance to put their classroom learning into practice through real-world jobs. This experience typically takes place during a student’s junior or senior year and is usually related to their field of study.

Can international students join a co-op program?

Absolutely! International students can take part in co-op or internships from colleges with co-op programs while studying in the U.S. with an F-1 student visa. International students need to work closely with their school advisors to make sure they meet all the eligibility requirements for these opportunities.

Does co-op income affect financial aid?

In most cases, the money you earn from a co-op job doesn’t increase your expected family contribution (EFC), so you shouldn’t see a rise in your tuition costs because of your earnings. For tax purposes, co-op income is treated as regularly earned income and must be reported on the FAFSA. Specifically, question 44f on the FAFSA asks for details about co-op earnings. When it comes to calculating the EFC, co-op earnings are listed in the student income section of the EFC worksheet and are subtracted from the total student income (line 34). This means co-op earnings won’t affect your EFC, though they will be recorded and subtracted in the EFC formula.

“Takeaways”>

The colleges with co-op programs in the United States may have different policies, but they share the same goal—introduce the students to the world of work through actual job opportunities. If you want to consider taking part in such programs, take note of the following:

• The majority of the universities and colleges that offer co-op programs will require that students maintain a specific GPA to qualify and must have a good standing during their entire stay.
• Co-op and internship are entirely different. The latter is typically short, while the former is longer and requires an actual job offer from the partner company.
• Co-op programs provide a real-world experience, which in turn improves your academic performance, but your entire stay in the university may be prolonged due to your work commitments.
• The salaries you earn from co-op jobs do not directly affect your financial aid.
• If you have not decided whether a co-op program is for you, we recommend consulting a college admissions expert to help you decide.