Frequently Asked Questions
home 
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked QuestionsErik Peterson, Electrical Engineering Major, IBM
- What is Cooperative Education (Co-op)?
- Cooperative Education (Co-op) is a program designed to integrate academic study with related job experience. Undergraduate students Co-op multiple alternating work terms of full-time work and full-time study.
- How far along in school should I be before starting a Co-op assignment?
- Students must have matriculated into the major before starting their first work term. Most students begin applying for Co-op in the spring of the freshman year in order to begin Co-op in the sophomore or junior year.
- May I Co-op only during summers?
- No, undergraduate Co-op students work multiple terms, preferably a minimum of 3 alternating work sessions.
- Are all of the Co-op jobs in the Raleigh area?
- NCSU Co-op students work primarily in North Carolina; however jobs are also available throughout the United States. Willingness to relocate is one of the key factors to an increased number of job opportunities.
- May I live at home while on Co-op?
- Yes, if you accept a job near your hometown.
- What do I do about housing when I go to work?
- Housing can be arranged with the help of employer representatives or through other Co-op students. Students working in and around Raleigh can remain in on-campus housing.
- Will I remain with the same employer for successive work terms?
- Yes. The NCSU Co-op Program approves a special request to change employers only in extenuating circumstances. Remaining with the same employer allows students to work through ascending levels of responsibility.
- Do I pay tuition while out on Co-op?
- No, Co-op students pay a $430.00 fee instead of tuition for each and every work term including a summer work term.
- Does participation in the Co-op program affect my financial aid?
- Yes, to some extent, depending on the type of financial assistance. Students must contact the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid for additional information.
- Do I receive academic credit for Co-op?
- No, but students' registration for COP appears on the transcript each work term, and students receive a transcript notation for completing all requirements of the Co-op program upon graduation.
- What happens if I change my major after beginning the Co-op program?
- A change of employer may be required, however you may also be able to work in another department more closely related to your new major within the same company.
- Will I have a guaranteed job offer from my Co-op employer at graduation?
- Not a guaranteed offer, but companies prefer hiring students who have related work experience, especially within their organization.