Cooperative Education/Internship Program
What is co-op?
Cooperative education is a program that gives students academic credit for hands-on work experience in their major field of study. Co-op provides an exciting opportunity to apply classroom learning to the real world of work while earning a paycheck.
What are internships?
Internships also provide students with academic credit for hands-on work experience in their major field of study. Today, the distinction between co-op and internships is somewhat arbitrary since interns are sometimes paid for the work they do. However, students are given a work/learning experience designed to introduce them to several facets of a particular career in an actual work environment. The employer determines compensation.
How many hours per week must be devoted to a co-op or internship?
Co-op jobs are planned around the student's academic schedule. Most positions require that the student work 15 to 20 hours a week. Internships also require that the student work 15 to 20 hours per week.
How many credits can be earned?
Each co-op/internship earns 1-3 credits per semester, depending upon the number of hours worked. Many students have two co-op experiences while at DCCC, earning a total of 6 credits.
What type of employers hire DCCC students?
Co-op employers reflect the full range of employers in today's working world. DCCC co-op students work for local, state and federal government, private industry and non-profit organizations. Whether the employer is a major corporation with thousands of workers or a one-person company, DCCC co-op employers are happy to help students develop into valuable members of the work force.
Will students receive assistance in finding a co-op position?
ABSOLUTELY! The Co-op staff will assist students in the selection of co-op positions that are related to the student's major field of study. In addition, they will help students write a resume and prepare for interviews. Placement is not guaranteed.
Why do businesses hire co-op students?
Area employers are eager to hire DCCC students. They gain bright, well-qualified, enthusiastic short-term employees. Trained students who have demonstrated their capabilities and are a good fit with the company can become future permanent employees. Many employers simply enjoy the opportunity of contributing to the educational process.
Can students who are already working in the field participate in co-op?
YES! If students are currently working in a job that is related to their college major and their responsibilities can be expanded or substantially changed, students can use their present position for co-op credit.
Qualifications for Co-op
Students must :
- Have earned 21 or more credits at DCCC and begun course work in their major field of study.
- Have an overall grade point average of 2.5. Some majors require a higher grade point average and the completion of specific courses.
- Obtain a written recommendation from a DCCC instructor.
- Submit an updated resume to the Co-op Office.
Co-ops are not presently offered in the following majors:
- Nursing and Allied Health Programs
- Education and Early Childhood Education
- Natural Science
- Science for the Health Professions
To find out more about the co-op/internship program fill out the form below and the Student Employment office will contact you.