Students

Co-operative Education

What is Co-operative Education?

Co-operative Education (or Co-op) integrates hands-on, paid, career-related work experience with a student's academic program, providing valuable training in your chosen career field. The work can be part-time and run parallel with your coursework, or it can be full-time and alternate semesters with your academics.

A Co-op is managed as a USF course and is administered by the Center for Career & Professional Development. Unlike an internship, a Co-op has formal requirements for the employer and the position that must be met, as well as assignments for the student. 

Why should I consider a Co-op?

Co-ops offer truly in-depth experience within a student's chosen career, building upon what is learned in the classroom with real world work experience. Employers engaging in Co-ops are investing in the program as a means to develop their future workforce, so the opportunity for a student to be offered a position post-graduation is high if they perform well.

When should I pursue a Co-op?

The timing for a Co-op depends on the employer's recruiting cycle (some are lengthy), the student's academic standing, and other factors. If interested in pursuing a Co-op, students are encouraged to contact the Center of Career & Professional Development on their campus to discuss this option.

Where do I go to find a Co-op opportunity?

Start with the Center for Career & Professional Development on your campus to explore the Co-op relationships that USF has with employers to learn more.