UMUC

Cooperative Education

2. Co-op Information Session > Benefits of Co-op

Due to its unique nature, Cooperative Education is beneficial for both students and employers.

  • Cooperative Education is designed to integrate academic theory with practical, on-the-job learning.

  • Co-op can help you identify new career opportunities that you otherwise may have missed.

  • Students often evaluate this hands-on experience as their most valuable experience in college.

  • Co-op helps you accelerate your graduation date. Students pursuing a first degree can earn up to 15 semester hours in Co-op credits. Students pursuing a second degree can earn up to 9 credits toward their degree.

  • Co-op starts when you start new job responsibilities! Start the Co-op process at any time during the year. However, you must take the Co-op course concurrent with your new responsibilities to earn credit.

  • Co-op gives you an opportunity to network with other professionals in your field through your course experience.

  • Employers benefit, too. As a Co-op employee you are ready to assume new or additional job responsibilities. Employers often discover talents in you that were previously untapped. As a result, employers value employees even more after the Co-op is completed. This often leads to advancement.