Engineering Career Resources

Cooperative Education Program

Our cooperative education program (co-op) allows participants to further explore their chosen engineering discipline, build a powerful resume, develop a network of professional contacts, and help support their academic expenses through real-world experiences. 

What is a Co-op? 

A Co-op is an extended work experience where students take time away from coursework to work full-time in industry.  

If the experience meets departmental requirements, the student can gain 1 technical elective credit per semester worked. If you hope to complete a Co-op for credit, be sure to meet with your academic advisor.  

Hands-on Experience:
Transforming your view of school

Students have at least three semesters working in a position related to their major.
Students will theory from classes to solve actual engineering problems.
Co-op is an opportunity to develop a professional network of engineers and organizations.
The competitive salary from co-op can help offset tuition fees without impacting FAFSA.
Housing or living stipend is sometimes offered from the employer.
More likely to be offered a permanent position upon graduation.
A mechanical engineering student works at a machine in a lab.

Ready to get started on your cooperative education experience? Our Student Information Page will help you find the right co-op and answer any questions you have.

For further inquiries about career events, employer engagement opportunities, or recruitment services, connect with us at engr-careeradvising@colostate.edu

Employers: Partner with the Co-Op program!

The gifted students in our cooperative education program are ready to learn from the best employers in the industry. You are the key to shifting them from engineering students to world-class engineers.