General Information on Cooperative Education and Internships 

How does a co-op work?

There are two methods by which students may participate in a co-op: the alternating method or the parallel method. The alternating approach rotates students between periods of full-time employment and full-time schooling. The parallel approach allows students to work and attend school during the same period of time.

What benefits does cooperative education offer students?

Participation in a cooperative education program gives students the opportunity to:

• Gain professional work experience.
• Earn money to cover a portion of their educational expenses.
• Explore and confirm career choices.
• Develop employment contacts for potential career opportunities.
• Test and apply knowledge gained in the classroom.
• Earn elective credits.

How do students qualify to participate in a co-op?

Interested students must have completed a minimum of one semester at Seminole State College and have a grade point average of at least 2.5. They must currently have, or must obtain through the assistance of the co-op staff, a job that is related to their academic and career goals.

How many credits hours can be earned through co-op?

Qualified students may register for one, two or three cooperative education credit hours per term. The number of co-op credits students can earn is based on degree requirements and the number of hours spent working in co-op positions. 

What are students' responsibilities?

Students are required to:

• Fulfill their commitment to their employer. 
• Uphold their obligation to the faculty adviser who guides the learning experience.
• Satisfy their agreement with the Career Development Center.

Did you know?

Seminole State's Career Development Center houses more than 1,700 career-related materials for students, faculty, staff and Seminole County residents.