ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú

The College of Engineering and Computing provides students majoring in our programs the opportunity to gain practical work experience in their field of study through working in industry. The department offers two different programs: co-op and internship. Participation in either of these programs is by student choice.

The importance of internships and co-op education cannot be overemphasized. Data clearly shows that co-op experiences help students achieve greater employment opportunities and faster career progress as compared to those who have not had any such exposure prior to graduation. Actual working experience in an industrial or a professional setting prior to graduation helps accomplish the following:

• to provide the "real" world practical experience
• to enhance one's educational experience by gaining more appreciation of the applied knowledge
• to enhance oral and writing, and interpersonal skills
• to gain appreciation of and exposure to the industrial workplace
• to assess the relevance of a career in chosen discipline to the student's long-term goals

Other tangible benefits include financial gain, enhanced full-time job opportunities, and a sense of contribution by engaging in a productive activity.

Internship and co-op participation is the student's choice, though it is very strongly recommended. The student can elect to do an internship for about three months (generally in the summer) or a co-op consisting of the summer and one semester (approximately 8 months). We strongly recommend that students do a summer internship, at a minimum, prior to graduation.

Twice per academic year, ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú has a Career Day, where many companies visit ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú for recruiting purposes. At these events, students are strongly encouraged to attend, résumés in hand, to meet company representatives and to apply to internship and co-op positions that interest them. It is essential that students register with the  Center for Career Exploration and Success to be eligible for interviews with companies during Career Day events.

Co-Op Program

The Co-Op ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú requires 5 years to complete the degree. Students generally schedule their first assignment for the summer or fall after their sophomore year and alternate terms between school and work for a total of 3-4 work terms. Some companies do allow co-ops to begin their work assignments following their freshman year.

We currently have more companies wanting co-ops than we have students willing to fill those positions. 

Internship Program

The Internship Program is normally for one work assignment, on occasion a student is asked to return for a second work assignment. An internship is a full-time work experience for a semester or summer term. It allows the company to hire a student to work on a special project or to fill a short-term need.