SUMMARY: Discover the differences between co-ops and internships and learn why co-ops provide invaluable hands-on experience, enhanced career prospects, and personal growth opportunities for Pigman College of Engineering and Computer Science students.

CO-OPS VS. INTERNSHIPS: WHY CO-OPS MATTER

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:

• Co-op: A semester-long or year-long paid experiential education opportunity. Co-ops are typically full-time (40 hours per week) and align with the academic schedule—16 weeks during Fall or Spring Semester, or 13 weeks during 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.
• Internship: A summer experience or part-time experience during the academic year. Internships do not require enrollment in a university course and are typically shorter in duration.

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.

WHY CO-OPS ARE IMPORTANT

Hands-On Experience

Co-ops provide a structured, paid experience where students engage in hands-on work within a professional setting. This real-world experience is invaluable for developing technical and professional skills, gaining industry insights, and making meaningful contributions to employers. As Maddie Flandermeyer (May 2024 Materials Engineering Graduate) noted, “Taking a co-op helped me discover what I was passionate about and steered me into an industry that fit my values.”

Enhanced Career Prospects

Students who participate in multiple co-op rotations often have higher starting salaries and are more competitive in the job market. Employers highly value the extended experience and practical skills gained through co-ops. Gracey Kelley (May 2024 Chemical Engineering graduate) shared, “The real-world experience I gained from my co-ops and internships made me a more appealing candidate to employers. Instead of merely seeking employment, I found myself with a range of full-time opportunities.”

Personal and Professional Growth

Co-ops offer opportunities to build confidence, leadership skills, and professional networks. These experiences extend beyond what can be learned in the classroom, preparing students for the demands of their future careers. Grace Smith (May 2024 Electrical Engineering graduate) emphasized, “My co-ops and internships taught me what it was like to be an engineer. Experiencing an internship or co-op is an integral part of your college experience and should not be missed!”

Flexibility and Support

While co-ops are not required, they are highly encouraged. Students have the flexibility to decide when to participate in co-ops and can pursue opportunities that align with their interests and career goals. The Engineering Career and Co-op Center provides support throughout the process, helping students find and apply for positions and maintain their academic standing.

STUDENT TESTIMONIALS

• Discovering Passions: “Taking a co-op helped me discover what I was passionate about and steered me into an industry that fit my values.” — Maddie Flandermeyer, May 2024 Materials Engineering graduate.
• Building Skills: “My co-ops and internships taught me what it was like to be an engineer. They are essential to the development of career and professional skills required for success in the engineering/technical world.” — Grace Smith, May 2024 Electrical Engineering Graduate
• Gaining Confidence: “The real-world experience I gained from my co-ops and internships made me a more appealing candidate to employers.” — Gracey Kelley, May 2024 Chemical Engineering Graduate
• Translating Experience to Studies: “Internships helped me translate classroom learning to real world experiences. They taught me how to collaborate effectively in teams and communicate across cross functional teams.” — Shelby Breeze, May 2024 Mechanical Engineering Graduate
• Long-Term Learning and Connections: “I am a huge advocate for co-ops because I believe they are a great opportunity to spend a longer span of time in a role, during which you can learn more, connect more, and translate more into your studies. I’m set to graduate with so much experience that it has allowed me to already begin work as an engineer in my dream role.” — McKenna Schwartz, December 2023 Mechanical Engineering Graduate
• Beyond Classroom Learning: “Co-ops are so important as they allow you to gain valuable on-site experience that is just not possible when solely in a classroom!” — Emily Nagy, December 2023 Mechanical Engineering Graduate
• Essential for Career and Professional Development: “If I could provide one piece of advice to students it would be to acquire as many early external experiences as possible while you have the opportunity to in your academic career. These experiences are not only recommended by industry, they are essential to the development of career and professional development required for success in the engineering/technical world.” — Taylor Young, May 2024 Biomedical Engineering Graduate

Conclusion

Co-ops provide engineering and computer science students with unparalleled opportunities to gain practical experience, enhance career prospects, and grow personally and professionally. At the Pigman College of Engineering, we encourage students to take advantage of these valuable experiences to prepare for successful careers in their chosen fields.