SUMMARY: Discover the differences between co-ops and internships and learn how these opportunities provide invaluable hands-on experience, enhanced career prospects, and personal growth opportunities for Pigman College of Engineering and Computer Science students.
Understanding the Difference
While some employers may use the terms “co-op” and “internship” interchangeably, the Engineering Career and Co-op Center CATEGORIZES them distinctly:
COOPERATIVE EDUCATION (CO-OP)
What is Co-op?
Cooperative education, also called co-op, is one of the best ways to earn significant technical experience in industry before graduation. Co-ops are typically a multi-work term agreement with an employer that allows undergraduate engineering students to alternate periods of academic study with full-time periods of paid work. Co-ops are typically full-time (40 hours per week) and align with the academic schedule—18 weeks over a Fall or Spring Semester, or 12 weeks during a Summer, with an option for a year-long experience (Fall, Spring, and Summer). Students must enroll in the Engineering Co-op class to maintain full-time student status.
Flexibility and Control
In the Pigman College of Engineering, gaining work experience is an expectation, not a requirement. This means students have a great deal of flexibility with most aspects of the experience. Students can agree to a one semester rotation, a semester/summer dual rotation, or a year-long program. It’s your program and it should work for your needs.
Benefits of Co-op
Co-ops allow undergraduate students to:
- Receive practical training and boost skills needed in the workforce
- Enhance resume
- Offset cost of education through competitive salary
- Assess interest in particular areas of engineering fields and majors
- Prepare for job market and increase job prospects
- Build a professional network
- Co-op medallion to wear at graduation
We encourage students to strongly consider a co-op for at least one rotation during the school year. Although that may change the graduation date, this does not change the number of semesters of full-time coursework, and the benefits far outweigh any negatives of that change.
INTERNSHIPS
What are Internships?
Internships are another opportunity to gain valuable work experience. Interns can work both full-time during a summer term or part-time during a semester. Internships are typically shorter in duration and do not require enrollment in a university course (though enrollment is an option).
Expanding Your Portfolio
Often, students will apply to work with different employers each summer to expand their portfolio. These experiences provide technical training and knowledge of the work environment.
Key Differences
- Duration and Commitment: Co-ops offer extended periods of work, allowing students more time to build skills, take on responsibilities, and complete projects. Internships are shorter, usually limited to the summer or part-time during the academic year.
- Full-Time Engagement: Co-ops are full-time commitments that provide a deep dive into the professional environment. Internships can be either full-time or part-time, offering more flexibility but less immersion.
- Academic Integration: Co-op students are registered in a university course, maintaining their full-time student status and academic standing. Internships operate independently of university administration.
- Flexibility and Location: Co-op students have the freedom to choose when and where to co-op, with opportunities available nationwide. There are no restrictions on the location or company, as long as the work is related to engineering or computer science.