Student Information
Student Advantages
- Increases marketability after graduation. Experience makes an applicant more attractive to employers.
- Enables students to make informed career decisions while "testing" an employment opportunity in their field.
- Refines interpersonal and teamwork skills by meeting, working and socializing with diverse groups of people.
- Offsets college expenses through money earned on the job if it is a paid work assignment.
- Earns academic credit and strengthens resume.
- Teaches valuable job search skills such as resume writing and interviewing techniques.
- Establishes professional contacts with employers.
- Develops confidence and self-esteem through "hands-on" training.
Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility requirements for participation in the co-op/internship program vary among academic programs at OCC. Faculty members within each discipline determine their own prerequisites. Please review the college catalogue or contact the Cooperative Education & Internship Office if additional clarification is needed. General eligibility requirements include:
- A student must be enrolled in one of the listed and approved academic programs offering a co-op/internship experience at OCC.
- Minimum GPA of 2.0
- Transfer students must successfully complete twelve credit hours of academic courses at OCC.
- Some disciplines require written faculty authorization or approval from a designated instructor before participating.
Application Process
Students who are interested in the Cooperative Education/Internship Program should submit an application at the appropriate Co-Op and Internship Office that assists students in their curriculum of interest.
- Students are encouraged to attend a co-op/internship orientation session offered several times throughout the year to learn about the program in detail. At the orientation, they will receive a packet of materials including an application and other forms needed for the student co-op and internship file.
- An initial interview appointment with a Co-Op/Internship Program Coordinator must be made. Completed application, resume and other necessary forms can be submitted at this time.
- In some technical disciplines, an official copy of the student's OCC transcript is required. A $2.00 transcript fee will be assessed. It must be paid at the cashiers office. A copy of the official transcript must be sent to the appropriate Program Coordinator.
- Registration in the required co-op/intern course is mandatory for participation in the Co-op & Internship program after students are hired by an approved company.
