Cooperative Education Program Download to print

Students in Kent State University's Cooperative Education Program (co-op) enhance their degree program by relating theory to practice and applying what they have learned in the classroom to real-life workplace scenarios. This process of “learning by doing” increases student motivation and employability after graduation and maximizes student growth and development. Through a co-op experience, students explore career and academic options, test career choices, increase professional skills and earn money to contribute to educational expenses. Cooperative education experiences are highly desired, selective and in the student’s chosen field.

All students participating in a co-op experience must register for COOP 20092 (non-credit, offered through University College) and pay the co-op fee. Enrollment in the course is restricted by special approval, and students may only register after submission and approval of all application forms. Enrollment in the course will ensure the student is designated and reported as a full-time student and permit the student to have access to all student services and resources during the co-op semester.

Criteria for Enrollment

• Enrollment as a full-time student in the semester prior (fall/spring) to enrollment in the cooperative education program
• Admitted into a degree program (students in a fully online program must receive their dean’s permission to enroll in a co-op)
• Minimum cumulative 2.750 GPA at time of co-op application
• No holds on the student’s record from any source (financial, academic, conduct)
• Cooperative position must directly relate to student’s major or concentration
• Completion of two semesters at Kent State (one semester for transfer students) prior to the first co-op rotation

For more information on the Cooperative Education Program, contact the Career Services Center.