Cooperative Education (CO-OP)

Hundreds of Engineering students participate in Cooperative Education each semester. Our location in the state capital as well as our close proximity to Research Triangle Park affords our students outstanding opportunities for "real world" experience and the ability to contribute financially toward their education. Cooperative Education is a structured academic program designed to enhance the quality and breadth of learning by providing qualified undergraduate students the opportunity of integrating academic study with related work-based learning. The College of Engineering has been participating in CO-OP since it began at NC State in 1953, so we have a long history of successful placements in government and industry. Studies have shown that students who participate in Cooperative Education perform better academically and graduate at a higher rate than other students with similar characteristics. These students also graduate with a total of twelve months of relevant work experience, which gives them a strong edge in the competitive job market and credit toward gaining professional engineering credentials.

Applicants to the CO-OP program must be enrolled as a full-time student in the College of Engineering, must complete the matriculation requirements prior to the first scheduled work period, must have a minimum overall grade point average of 2.25/4.00, and should have enough semesters remaining prior to graduation to arrange for a minimum of twelve months (three rotations) of work experience. The student should attend an orientation session early in the semester prior to the first work period. To remain in the program, students must maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.0/4.0 and perform satisfactorily for the employer. Some companies require a higher GPA.

Employers may be private industry, federal or state agencies, or any firm requiring engineering talent. Geographically, the employers may be anywhere in the USA or even in a foreign country if it can be arranged. Please contact the CO-OP Office for more details.