Experiential Learning

Co-Op Program

Cooperative education is a unique form of education that differs from summer employment and internships. The National Commission for Cooperative Education (NCCE) explained the development of a co-op model “that incorporates a cooperative education as a structured educational strategy integrating classroom studies with learning through productive work experiences in a field related to a student’s academic or career goals. It provides progressive experiences in integrating theory and practice. Co-op is a partnership among students, educational institutions and employers, with specified responsibilities for each party”.

The co-op course is created to ensure that the student’s full-time status is protected. The student does not have to be enrolled in any other course(s) to participant in the co-op program. The required co-op paperwork must be completed before the co-op experience begins.

The NCCE promotes potential outcomes for society, students, employers and ISU:

• Clarity about career goals
• Understanding of workplace culture
• New or advanced skills
• Career management
• Professional networking
• After-graduation employment opportunities

Types of Co-Op Courses

There are two types of co-op courses:

• Type One is for-credit and overseen by ISU faculty. In this co-op program, the student is enrolled in a cooperative education course that is linked to their academic major.
• Type Two is a not for credit co-op overseen by Career Center staff. This program is not linked to any academic program and is mostly commonly utilized for the Disney College Program©.

Employers are encouraged to place their co-op opportunities on Sycamore CAREERlink –for free--where students can search for the best co-ops.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled student at ISU
• 2.0 GPA
• Be in good judicial standing with the University
• If for Credit - Completion of a hours and academic requirements as outlined by faculty and employer

Application Process

• Obtain a faculty sponsor
• Contact Career Center staff for completion of required paperwork
• Bring a completed and signed Internship Agreement Form to the Career Center for processing