Information Systems

Why Co-ops?

Co-Op (short for cooperative education) is an educational program in which students alternate periods of academic study in the classroom with periods of employment in positions related to their academic and/or career interests.

This combination provides an engaged learning experience that enhances both the academic experience and career development. Students are able to apply theoretical knowledge obtained in the classroom to practical situations in the workplace.

Although Cleveland State University offers a variety of resources to help prepare students for co-op, it is up to the students to ensure their success by meeting with their co-op coordinator as often or frequently as required, preparing for face-to-face interviews, phone interviews, performing well on the job, and drawing on workplace and classroom learning to sharpen professional and academic goals.

Check out these articles written by Troy Onink in various issues of Forbes magazine:

Reasons why employers should consider co-ops:
Why College Co-Op Programs Totally Rock
Interested in global co-ops? Here's what Paul Stonely of WACE has to say.
College Co-Op Programs Go Global