FAQ
Do I work full time and take classes at the same time?
No. You either take classes or go on co-op. That way, you can focus completely on your co-op job and getting the most out of the experience.
Do I have to find my own job?
No. You have that option, but our co-op program has more than 2,000 co-op jobs available each semester. You will be assigned a co-op coordinator who specializes in your major and is knowledgeable about co-op jobs in your field. He or she will work closely with you to identify and apply for appropriate jobs.
Where do most students work? Do I have to work in Boston?
The majority of students do work in the greater Boston area. However, co-op jobs are available in 35 states and 33 countries. While many students prefer to work in the Boston area, we encourage you to be flexible about location in order to ensure the best possible experience.
Can I go home to work?
Yes. In major metropolitan areas such as New York City and Washington, D.C., the University already has established co-op positions with local employers. You may also seek to develop your own co-op job with employers close to your home. Your co-op coordinator will work with you to make sure the job fits all the co-op requirements.
What happens if I don't get a co-op?
Northeastern has many co-op jobs available, and your co-op coordinator will work with you closely to help you land a suitable position. However, in rare cases, due to market conditions or other factors, a student may not get a job in a given semester. In that case, you return to classes and begin the process of applying for co-op jobs for the next semester.
Are some co-ops gophers? Or do we really get to work?
Co-op job duties vary, depending on the industry, employer, and a student's qualifications. However, employers are encouraged to offer a meaningful professional experience, and the vast majority of jobs do.
Do I have to work for the entire six months? Do I get vacation time?
Yes, you are required to work for the full six months. Co-op students do not receive vacation time, although you may be able to arrange a few days of unpaid time off with your employer.
Can I go on co-op over summer break?
Yes. The spring co-op period runs through late June, and the fall co-op period begins in early July. However, you cannot co-op only during the summer months. You must complete the full six-month period to earn co-op credit.
Do I get my summers off?
Because of the co-op schedule, most students do not have summers off after their sophomore year. Instead, students switch back and forth between academic terms and co-op placements.
When do I start co-op?
Typically, students do their first co-op the second semester of their sophomore year.
What is the difference between my academic advisor and my co-op coordinator?
Your academic advisor works with you to develop your academic program and ensure that your graduation requirements are met. Your co-op coordinator helps you prepare for and find co-op jobs. Your two advisors work together to integrate the classroom and co-op experience.
How do I get a co-op job?
Before your first co-op, you'll complete a co-op orientation course. Then, during the term before you begin working, you register for co-op when you register for your academic course work. You'll meet individually with your co-op coordinator to review appropriate positions and apply for them. Employers review resumes and select students for interviews.
Am I guaranteed a job?
Most students do find positions, and your co-op coordinator makes every effort to help you find co-op employment. However, due to certain job-market conditions or other factors, occasionally even a well-qualified student may not obtain a co-op position. Therefore, we can't guarantee that you will get a co-op job. To ensure your success, it is important to keep in contact with your coordinator and to engage your best job-search skills. Considering a variety of geographic locations and types of positions, including international opportunities, is also recommended.
How much will I be paid for co-op work? Are all jobs paid?
Salaries are set by employers and depend on the industry, employer, the level of the position, your class year and grade point average, and the local economy. Your co-op coordinator has specific salary information for your program. Northeastern encourages employers to pay a salary, and most do. However, not all industries or employers can or do pay a salary for co-op positions.
What role does my co-op coordinator play?
Your co-op coordinator assists you in several ways before, during, and after your co-op experience. He or she provides guidance with resume-writing and interviewing skills, helps you develop your plans, and makes every effort to refer you to the right potential employers. While you are on co-op, your coordinator is available to assist you if questions or concerns arise. When you return to campus, your coordinator helps you reflect on the experience, integrating your classroom and work experience so you get the most from co-op.
Do I pay tuition while on co-op?
During co-op periods, you do not pay tuition. You do pay a housing bill if you choose to live in a Northeastern residence hall while on co-op. You are still considered a full-time Northeastern student, which means you can participate in student organizations, athletics, and other aspects of campus life.
Do I earn credit for co-op?
Students who fully and successfully participate in cooperative education receive experiential-learning credit for each co-op experience. Although this credit is not added to the academic credit hours required for graduation, your school transcript reflects your pass/fail grade for each co-op term. Awarding experiential learning credit indicates the value of the co-op experience and enhances your future career opportunities.
Where do I live while I am on co-op?
Planning for your housing needs is important. If you are living in a residence hall and accept a co-op position in or near Boston, you may continue to live in the residence hall as long as you continue to fulfill the requirements of the Residence Hall and Dining License Agreement. If you secure a position outside the Boston area, you are generally responsible for finding your own housing and transportation, although some employers assist with or provide housing. In addition, the Office of Co-op Connections maintains housing in select areas of the country, such as New York City and Washington, D.C.
Can I play a varsity sport and go on co-op?
If you're an athlete, your co-op coordinator will meet with you to discuss work schedules. Every effort will be made to accommodate your athletic commitment, but the types of positions available may be limited.
Can I study abroad and participate in co-op?
Yes, although you may not be able to complete three full co-ops within five years. Your academic advisor and co-op coordinator will work closely with you to set up your schedule so that you can study abroad and do co-op while fulfilling all your academic requirements.
Do I have to participate in co-op?
Co-op is the cornerstone of a Northeastern education, and more than ninety percent of students participate. However, it is not required. Undergraduates who choose not to pursue co-op can fulfill Northeastern's experiential learning requirement by participating in research, service learning, or study abroad.
Can I co-op in another country?
The International Co-op Program helps you explore the possibilities of working in another part of the world. Recently, co-op opportunities have been available in Australia, Canada, China, England, France, Iceland, Ireland, New Zealand, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, and parts of Latin America. To learn more, visit the International Co-op section of this web site.
What kind of co-op preparation do you offer?
Students are required to take a co-op orientation/preparation course that covers such important topics as career exploration, writing resumes, interviewing, and professional etiquette. Students are also encouraged to take advantage of the Department of Career Services, which provides workshops and individual counseling to graduating seniors, alumni, and students preparing for co-op on a variety of topics (e.g. choosing a major, career/life planning, resume-writing, and interviewing.) Career Services can also help you find a summer internship to build your skills in preparation for co-op.
Do I have to declare a major before I go on co-op?
In most cases, yes.
Does co-op make the college experience feel disjointed? How do I keep friends?
Co-op can make college feel a little disjointed at first. Technology helps our students keep in touch with their friends. In addition, the majority of students are rotating between co-op and classes, so everyone makes more effort to stay connected. The Office of Co-op Connections provides programs and resources that assist students with the unique challenges of transitioning between 'life as a student' and 'life working on co-op.' For more information, please visit Co-op Connections.