Gain relevant experience Earn academic credit Clarify career goals
Cooperative Work Experience (Co-op) is an educational program that combines classroom learning with supervised practical work experience. Students who are enrolled in a co-op course earn three credit hours toward an Associate of Applied Science degree or eligible Professional Certificate. Some workforce programs require students to complete a Cooperative Work Experience; for others, the co-op is optional.Co-ops are made possible by a strong partnership between the student, employer, and Collin College. Job search assistance is available to students, or you may use your existing, relevant employment for co-op credit; however, the position and employer must first be approved by a Workforce Program Career Coach or Faculty member.
Co-op eligibility checklist:
- Have completed at least one semester at Collin College and are currently enrolled
- Declared major in degree plan or certificate program that lists co-op as a required course (or suggested elective)
- Overall GPA of 2.5 or better
- Taking co-op at appropriate point in degree plan sequence
Course requirements:
- Work 320 total hours in 16 weeks (summer varies)
- Prepare and execute five competency-based goals while on the job
- Attend 16 hours of professional development seminars and complete evaluation forms
- Submit three- to five-page reflection paper
- Participate in two on-site meetings with your supervisor and faculty advisor
Getting started:
- Schedule an appointment with your career coach to confirm eligibility and begin the co-op process. Please allow plenty of time prior to the start of the semester as it may take several weeks to verify eligibility and initiate enrollment.
- Attend a Co-op Workshop (Wednesdays at noon in H142 at the Preston Ridge Campus in Frisco) and get answers to those FAQs.
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