What is Co-op?
Co-op, short for cooperative education, is a program that balances classroom theory with periods of practical, hands-on experience prior to graduation. Through the co-op program, students are able to alternate academic study with full-time employment, gaining practical experience in their field of study.
Drexel University has been a pioneer in cooperative education since 1919 – operating one of the largest cooperative education programs in the nation. Over 1,500 business, industrial, governmental, and other institutions "cooperate" with Drexel in offering students the opportunity to acquire practical experience in employment related to college studies. Drexel students also have the opportunity to explore research, national and international co-op experiences. For more detailed information about the co-op programs at Drexel, click on the program titles to the right.
| Co-op | Internship | |||
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Students are employed for a defined three-month or six-month period. | Internships typically last two to three months. | ||
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Co-op students do major-related work within the guidelines of their academic program. | While a positive experience, internships are not necessarily major-related. |
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Most co-ops are paid positions. | Many internships are unpaid. | ||
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Co-ops are for academic credit and part of a student's official transcript. | Internships are usually not a required part of the academic program. |
