Co-op education, short for cooperative education, is an academic model that combines traditional classroom learning with practical, paid work experience in a student's field of study. Students alternate between periods of full-time study and full-time employment related to their major, gaining hands-on experience and industry connections before they graduate.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Structured Alternation: Students typically work in jobs related to their major for a term, then return to school. This cycle can be repeated multiple times, allowing students to accumulate months (or even years) of work experience.
  2. Paid Work: Unlike internships, co-op positions are usually paid, providing financial benefits alongside professional experience.
  3. Real-World Learning: Co-ops provide students with the opportunity to apply what they've learned in the classroom to real-world situations, helping them gain valuable skills and professional contacts.
  4. Employability: Many students receive job offers from their co-op employers after graduation, which boosts employability and often leads to higher starting salaries.

Examples of Co-op Universities in the U.S.:

  1. Drexel University (Philadelphia, PA): Drexel is one of the most well-known co-op schools, offering students up to 18 months of work experience through its co-op program. About 50% of co-op students receive job offers from their co-op employers.
  2. Northeastern University (Boston, MA): Another leader in co-op education, Northeastern's program is one of the largest in the U.S. It allows students to work with major companies like Google, IBM, and the U.S. government.
  3. University of Cincinnati (Cincinnati, OH): This university is a pioneer in co-op education, offering a structured program where students alternate between work and study. It partners with various industries, providing students with comprehensive practical experience.
  4. Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) (Rochester, NY): RIT has an extensive co-op program, particularly strong in engineering, computer science, and design fields. Their co-op students gain work experience with top tech and design companies.

These programs offer significant advantages, such as making students more competitive in the job market and helping them clarify career goals through hands-on experience.

What is experiential learning?

Experiential learning in a college setting refers to an educational approach where students learn by actively engaging in direct experiences and reflecting on them. This hands-on learning process allows students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations, enhancing their understanding and retention of material. It is built on the idea that learning is most effective when students are actively involved in the learning process rather than passively receiving information.

Here are common forms of experiential learning in college.

1. Internships:

Internships are structured work experiences related to a student’s field of study, allowing them to apply what they’ve learned in a professional setting. They are usually short-term and can be paid or unpaid.

Example: At Elon University, internships are a core part of experiential learning, enabling students to gain practical skills before graduating.

2. Study Abroad Programs:

These programs immerse students in different cultural and academic environments, expanding their global perspective. Study abroad is particularly popular in programs related to language, international relations, or global business.