Internships and cooperative education (co-op) programs are structured opportunities for engineering students to gain practical experience while pursuing their degree. An internship is typically a short-term position—often during the summer or a single semester—where you work part-time or full-time to apply classroom concepts in a professional setting. A co-op, on the other hand, is a longer, more immersive experience that usually spans multiple semesters (summer through fall or spring through summer). Co-ops allow you to work full-time in industry (usually not taking any academic coursework) while maintaining student status.

Both options help develop technical skills, explore career paths, and build a strong professional network. Many employers use internships and co-ops as pipelines for full-time hires, making them a valuable step towards a future career. After a student has accepted a co-op or internship position, they need to register their experience with the college for it to be noted on their transcript and documented as an experience related to their curriculum. Students' academic records, and the details of the work experience, are reviewed before giving them special permission to register for a 0-semester hour course needed to maintain student status during semester-long positions. To register your co-op or internship please complete this form.

If you’re considering an internship or co-op during the year, it’s a great idea to check in with your academic advisor first. They can help you understand how this experience might impact your course schedule, credit requirements, and overall academic progress. Having that conversation early ensures you can make informed decisions and stay on track toward your goals.

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