Cooperative Education FAQs

So, what is Cooperative Education (Co-op) all about?

Cooperative Education gives students an opportunity to try out career options prior to graduation. Students gain valuable career-related experience while earning academic credit and money. After graduation, students usually find that their Co-op position makes them more attractive to prospective employers. In addition, they often receive higher salary offers than students without Co-op experience.

What are the qualifications for Co-op?

Why should I participate in a Co-op?

Do I need a resume?

Yes, a resume is required. Set-up an appointment with Patricia Whelan for assistance with developing your resume.

How do I start the application process for Co-op?

You need to schedule an appointment to meet with Patricia Whelan to begin the Co-op application process by calling (203) 392-6536 or stopping by the Center for Career Services in the Wintergreen building.

Once your resume is approved, you will be given access to potential Co-op experiences.

Will I receive college credit for my Co-op experience?

Yes, you will receive elective credit.

How many credits can I earn through Co-op?

1-12 elective credits are awarded upon successful completion of the employment period.

Am I given a grade for the Co-op?

A Pass/Fail grade is given upon successful completion of the Co-op.

Am I guaranteed a Co-op job?

Economic and job market conditions can impact the availability of jobs and the success of students being hired.

What are the Co-op work Periods?

Co-op opportunities can last for a semester, summer, or six months, and can be either full-time or part-time.

What type of Co-op opportunities are available?

There are a wide variety of opportunities available to students. We work closely with students to assist them in finding a Co-op experience. Students can also discuss with us any jobs that they have pursued on their own, to determine if the jobs could be used as a Co-op opportunity.

Do participating employers ever hire Co-op students after the Co-op term has ended?

There is no obligation on the part of the employer or student to continue employment at the end of the Co-op work period. National statistics show nearly half of students that participate in a Co-op go on to receive full-time employment with that company. (NACE 2008 Executive Summary, Experiential Education Survey)

Some sample Co-op positions: