Co-op Program

Co-op Program
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Co-op Program
COOPERATIVE EDUCATION (CO-OP)
is a planned and supervised program that alternates semesters of full-time college classroom instruction with 3 semesters of full-time paid employment. The work assignments are closely related to your academic program and are designed to prepare you for your professional career by combining your academic training with practical work experience.
Interested in co-op?
Have you secured a co-op for a future semester?
*A formal, approved offer letter is required to report a co-op work experience.
Quick Facts
All co-op positions are paid! The
average co-op salary
is $20.86/hour based on the 2022-2023 academic year
You can gain up to 1 year (52 weeks) of experience before graduating
Over 480 students are currently in the program
84% of students are in the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering
In recent years, starting salaries for Auburn Engineering students with co-op or internship experience were 8% higher than students with no professional experience
The Auburn Co-op Program was established in 1937
What's the Difference Between Co-op and Internship?
Co-op
Three-semester commitment with the same company and is always a paid experience.
Co-op takes place year-round and students gain up to 1 year of experience and is a full-time work experience.
Co-op students have the opportunity to develop an in-depth skillset and manage their own projects during their work terms.
Companies give more responsibility to co-op students due to the longer period of time spent at the company.
Engineering students are ready to apply for co-op positions during their sophomore year.
Co-op students receive priority registration status and are able to register each semester during the early registration period for priority students.
Students do not pay tuition during co-op work semesters and are enrolled in a 0-credit hour course to maintain student status.
Internship
One semester commitment.
Internships typically take place only during the summer semester or 10-12 weeks but can happen during fall and spring semesters as well.
Internships may be part-time or full-time.
Internships provide a broader overview of work life.
Internships allow students to spend time at different companies.
Students can intern as early as the summer after their Freshman year
Students do not pay tuition during internships and are enrolled in a zero credit hour course to maintain student status.
Visualize your potential co-op work rotations!
The Co-op Program will work with students in any major or academic program to identify a suitable co-op opportunity, but co-op positions are typically only available for students in Engineering, Building Science, Supply Chain Management, Business, and related disciplines.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Students must have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 to join the program.
Engineering Students must be in-major before beginning the first co-op work term.
If you don't meet the requirements for co-op,
internships
are another great way to gain industry experience.
Complete the Professional Experience Interest Form
You will have the option to indicate interest in four areas: co-op, internship, undergraduate research, and global experiences. CDCR offers a Canvas course to support your search for co-op and internship search called Co-op + InternReady.
INTERESTED? STEPS TO GET STARTED:
Attend an Interest Meeting
: These usually take place during the first few weeks of each semester.
See Upcoming Co-op + Internship Events
Complete the Professional Experience Interest Form.
Receive academic advisor approval on the Co-op Alternation Plan.
Meet with an Engineering Career Coach
Schedule an Appointment on Handshake
Upload your revised resume to Handshake.
Schedule on-campus interviews and attend Career Fairs.
JOB SEARCH + INTERVIEWING
Handshake
: All co-op positions are posted on the University's online job search platform,
Handshake
. Be sure to upload your updated resume to Handshake and mark it public prior to applying for jobs.
Career Fairs
and on-campus interviews are your opportunity to interview with 100+ companies to find an exciting and enriching opportunity. Pre-schedule on-campus interviews on Handshake!
Check out these
helpful interview tips and tricks
to help you land a job.
Send-Off Meeting
All students who have accepted co-op positions are required to attend a Co-op + Internship Send-Off Meeting at the end of the semester in which the student accepts a position. At this meeting, students will receive helpful guidance for having a successful work experience.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Scholarships
: The
Office of University Scholarships
works with students to defer appropriate scholarships when students are completing co-op work terms. Please review this
FAQ page
for more information on this process.
*If you currently receive Samuel Ginn College of Engineering scholarships, please contact Jessica Taylor, Director of Engineering Recruiting and Scholarships, at
dewbeja@auburn.edu
Meal Plans
: Students can request an exemption from meal plans for each work semester in AU Access > My Campus > Accommodations > Away From Campus Dining Accommodation Request.
Contact Dining Services for specific questions:
dining@auburn.edu
or 334.844.8504.
On-Campus Housing
: Co-op students who need to request termination of their Auburn on-campus housing contract due to a co-op work semester may
use
this link
Auburn Athletics
: If you are working in the fall semester and purchase AU Football tickets, a $110 fee will be applied to your student account to cover a student fee associated with Auburn Athletics.
What is a Co-op Work Plan?
This tailor-made academic blueprint, created by a career coach in the CDCR, integrates your future co-op rotations into your upcoming school semesters. This plan ensures you never miss a vital class by carefully scheduling school semesters around your co-op work semesters. You can think of it as a bridge between your academic pursuits and real-world work, guaranteeing you a smooth transition and maximizing your learning potential. Your academic advisor reviews and approves this flexible plan, which can change as your academic journey unfolds.
What do I do with my Co-op Work Plan?
Once you complete the
Professional Experience Interest Form
, you will receive the Co-op Eligiblility Form link if you meet all program requirements. Then, following the completion of the Co-op Eligibility Form, you will receive your personalized Co-op Work Plan. Your academic advisor will be included in the email and their signature on the plan is required before proceeding further. To facilitate co-op opportunities, please connect with your academic advisor to receive their approval and be sure to upload the signed plan to Handshake.
Is co-op only for engineering majors?
No, the Co-op Program is for all majors across campus. We are housed in the College of Engineering because 84% of our co-op students are in engineering. However, all students can apply and seek positions. If you are a non-engineering student and are interested in co-op, please schedule an appointment on Handshake or complete the Professional Experience Interest Form.
Does co-op always delay gradu
ation?
Not necessarily! While co-op can shift your graduation date, the impact depends on your unique academic situation. Factors like your school year, current course credits, and even your major play a role. However, co-op packs nearly a year of industry-relevant experience into your backpack, by maximizing summer semesters. Additionally, you score nearly a year of industry-relevant experience before graduation. The timing might adjust a bit, but the benefits such as enhanced employability and a competitive edge in the engineering job market can outweigh the shift.
Where will I live if I go to work outside of Auburn or my hometown?
Though you are responsible for finding your own housing in a new city, there are many resources that can help you in your housing search.
Social Media
Facebook Groups
: Dive into local groups with keywords like "sublet," "roommate finder," and the city/state you're heading to. Many students and young professionals utilize these groups, offering a treasure trove of short-term options. Remember, caution is key when subletting – always research and verify before committing.
College Connections
: Research colleges or universities in and around your co-op’s city. Joining their Facebook, Discord/Reddit, or other social media groups can connect you with students in similar situations looking for roommates or sublets. Shared age ranges and experiences can make for a smooth transition.
Reach Out and Explore
HR/Recruiter Connection
: Don't be shy! Reach out to your HR contact or recruiter. They might have inside information about other co-ops/interns also searching for housing. Sharing your situation and asking about their experiences can lead to valuable leads. Just remember, confidentiality might be a factor.
Networking
: Tap into your personal network! Let friends and family know you'll be living in the new city. They might have connections or know individuals looking for roommates.
Exploring Options and Resources
Airbnb
: If your co-op offers a housing stipend, consider Airbnb in certain cities. Depending on your timeframe, it might even be cheaper than committing to a lease.
Professional Help
: Real estate agents can help! Share your budget, desired number of rooms, and move-in timeframe, and they'll provide a curated list of options. Be prepared for a potential fee for their services.
Extended Stay Hotels
: Explore extended stay hotels, which often offer kitchenette facilities and flexible rates for longer stays.
Student Housing Hubs
: Check websites like dorms.com or co-living websites like CampusPads for student-specific short-term housing options.
Online Resources
: Websites like ApartmentFinder (https://www.apartmentfinder.com/) and Apartments.com (https://www.apartments.com/) offer a vast selection of listings. Plus, Auburn University itself has a helpful resource for off-campus housing: https://offcampushousing.auburn.edu/.
Remember
Start early
: The sooner you begin your search, the more options you'll have.
Be flexible
: Your ideal situation might not be readily available, so keep an open mind and consider different options.
Safety first
: Always prioritize your safety when researching and meeting potential roommates or landlords. Trust your gut and don't hesitate to walk away if something feels off.
Sample Co-op Alternation Plan Schedule
Semester
Plan A
Plan B
Fall
Sophomore Year
School
School
Spring
Sophomore Year
Work Semester 1
School
Summer
Sophomore Year
School
Work Semester 1
Fall
Junior Year
Work Semester 2
School
Spring
Junior Year
School
Work Semester 2
Summer
Junior Year
Work Semester 3
School
Fall
Senior Year
School
Work Semester 3
Spring
Senior Year
School
School
Summer
Senior Year
Graduated
School
*Graduation time varies. It depends on which classes are offered in the summer semesters and when senior design sequences are offered.
Can I take classes while on co-op?
Yes, you may take up to 5 credit hours of classes while on your co-op rotation(s). We do not recommend students in their first semester to take classes as the adjustment from full-time student to full-time employment is often challenging.
STUDENT POLICIES + INFORMATION
Academic Policy
Co-op Program students must maintain a
2.5 cumulative GPA
to be in academic good standing and continue on in the Co-op Program.
Good Standing
= GPA semester and cumulative >/= 2.50.
Co-op Warning
= GPA semester or cumulative drops below 2.50.
Co-op Probation
= GPA semester and cumulative drop below 2.50
Continue Work
= Employer must approve work while on probation.
Continued Probation
= GPA semester and cumulative remain below 2.50 for 2nd time,
and employer approves continued employment.
Co-op Suspension
= GPA Semester and cumulative drop below 2.00 or below 2.50 for third term. Student may not enroll in Co-op 4910, 4920 or 4930. Employer will be informed.
Additional Information
Salary:
Co-op positions are paid an average salary of $20.86/hour. Click
here
for more salary information.
Housing
: Co-op students are responsible for their own housing costs; however, some companies may offer housing stipends or provide housing for students.
Meal Plans
: Students can request an exemption from meal plans for each work semester through
AU Access
. AU Access > My Campus > Away from Campus Dining Accommodation Request.
Required Class
: During work rotations, students must register for COOP 4910, 4920, or 4930. Students in work rotations
do not pay tuition or student service fees.
There is a one-time, $100 co-op fee charged during the second work term. The COOP classes are S/U, and a satisfactory grade is earned by completing 2 surveys and 1 evaluation.
Scholarship Eligibility
: During work terms, scholarships are placed on hold. Please contact
The University Scholarships Office
to double-check eligibility requirements. For more information, please review these
scholarship FAQs
*If you currently receive Samuel Ginn College of Engineering scholarships, please contact Jessica Taylor, Director of Engineering Recruiting and Scholarships, at
dewbeja@auburn.edu
Football Tickets
: All students are still eligible to purchase football tickets.
Making Changes
: Connect with an
Engineering Career Coach
to request any change to your plans for upcoming school and work semesters.
SURVEYS + EVALUATIONS
At various points throughout your work rotation, you will receive surveys and a link to an evaluation.
Beginning
At the beginning of your work term, you will receive a Work Information Survey to help the Co-op Program capture the most up-to-date information about your co-op job. This brief survey asks for information such as city, state, and salary.
Middle
Around mid-term, you will receive a Check-In Survey. This survey is to check in on your work experience and for you to privately report any potential work issues to a Career Coach. Remember, you do not have to wait until this survey is sent to report an issue.
End
Towards the end of each work term, you and at least one supervisor are required to complete performance evaluations on SkillSurvey. Each semester, you will receive an email with a unique link to the survey.
SkillSurvey assessment is a valuable tool that allows students to obtain feedback from multiple managers and co-workers regarding soft skill development. It was developed based on the 8 NACE Career Ready Competencies, which recruiters of college students have determined as the 8 most desired soft skills in new college graduates. Refer to this
page
to learn more about the Career Ready Competencies.
CO-OP STUDENT BENEFITS
Priority registration status
Co-op Diploma ($15 fee) upon graduation
Honor cord + padfolio awarded
1 year of relevant industry experience
Steps to Obtain Work Authorization
Conduct a co-op search | Stay in communication with your International Student Advisor, Academic Advisor, and an Engineering Career Coach to help you prepare for and engage in the search.
Obtain a written co-op offer letter from a company or organization.
Report your Co-op to the Engineering CDCR
Obtain Curricular Practical Training (CPT) application form at the
Office of International Students and Scholars Services
Obtain signature approval from your department
Register for COOP 4910 (first work term) (0-credit) during the semester you will engage in the co-op experience
Complete and submit your CPT application
Confirm CPT work authorization approval - reviewed by the Office of International Students and Scholars Services.
When should I accept the co-op offer?
The Office of International Students and Scholars Services cannot process your CPT application until after your enrollment in COOP 4910. If ever in doubt about the timing of your co-op offer acceptance, meet with an Engineering Career Coach to strategize your plan. In all circumstances, make sure you do not complete any hire paperwork or company orientation until
after
your CPT application is processed and approved.
Do I need to be enrolled in classes during my co-op?
For each work term, you will enroll in the corresponding Co-op Course:
COOP 4910 | First work term
COOP 4920 | Second work term
COOP 4930 | Third work term
Spring 2025
(20 weeks)
Report to Work     Monday, January 6
Survey 1 Due       Friday, January 31
Survey 2 Due       Friday, March 21
SkillSurvey Due    Thursday, May 1
Work Term Ends    Friday, May 23
Summer 2025
(12 weeks)
Report to Work     Monday, May 5
Survey 1 Due       Friday, May 30
Survey 2 Due       Friday, June 20
SkillSurvey Due    Friday, July 25
Work Term Ends    Friday, August 1
Fall 2025 (20 weeks)
Report to Work     Monday, August 4
Survey 1 Due       Friday, August 29
Survey 2 Due       Wednesday, October 17
SkillSurvey Due    Wednesday, December 1
Work Term Ends    Friday, December 19
Spring 2026
(20 weeks)
Report to Work     Monday, January 5
Survey 1 Due       Friday, January 30
Survey 2 Due       Friday, March 20
SkillSurvey Due    Friday, May 1
Work Term Ends    Friday, May 22
Students participate in a 3-semester rotation (typically a Fall, Spring, and Summer semester) to get a full year of experience (52 weeks) prior to graduation.
Co-op + Internship Ambassadors are a group of student leaders devoted to outreach and programming to increase awareness of the Co-op + Internship Program and encourage undergraduate participation. Co-op + Internship Ambassadors are upperclassmen who have successfully completed at least one co-op or two internship work terms, demonstrate leadership on campus and at their respective workplaces, and want to positively impact the campus community at large. Eligible students will be invited to apply for this volunteer role in March of each year.
Interested in connecting with an ambassador to ask about their experience?
Complete the
Ambassador Connections
survey or email any student below.
Below are the Fall 2024 Co-op + Internship Ambassadors.
Annabel Morrisard
Chemical Engineering
Co-op, SABIC
Bexley Knight
Industrial & Systems Engineering
Internship, STERIS | LPL Financial
Callie Stevenson
Electrical Engineering
Co-op, NASA
Camille Daugherty
Civil Engineering
Co-op, Enercon Services
Campbell Brown
Electrical Engineering
Co-op, Neptune Technology Group | Internship, Leonardo DRS
Jackson Miller
Industrial & Systems Engineering
Co-op, Mercedes-Benz
William Kong
Industrial & Systems Engineering
Co-op, Delta Air Lines
Chris Hinkson
Software Engineering
Co-op, Club Car
Evan Long
Mechanical Engineering
Co-op, BMW
Glen Stahl
Materials Engineering + Industrial & Systems Engineering
Co-op, GE Appliances | Internship, Disneyland, Los Alamos National Laboratory
Jacob Hurst
Civil Engineering
Co-op, Engineering Consulting Services
Jesvin Joseph
Computer Engineering
Co-op, Club Car
Josh Dobelbower
Aerospace Engineering
Co-op, Gulfstream Aerospace Company
Kralyn Thomas
Industrial & Systems Engineering
Internship, KIA | Milliken & Co
Leighanna Howell
Mechanical Engineering
Co-op, Neptune Technology Group
Peyton Carr
Industrial & Systems Engineering
Co-op, Johnson & Johnson
PJ Green
Mechanical Engineering
Internship, International Paper | Co-op, Honda
Shrimayi Karanam
Industrial & Systems Engineering
Co-op, Johnson & Johnson
Tori McDermott
Chemical Engineering
Co-op, SABIC
Tucker Strane
Aerospace Engineering
Internship, Integrated Solutions for Systems | Co-op, Fokker
Tyler Teufel
Software Engineering
Internship, LPL Financial
Wesley Lowman
Computer Science
Co-op, NASA
STUDENT CO-OP STORIES
Abigail Ford | Chemical Engineering | Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine
Bryce Little | Mechanical Engineering | Club Car
Cole Cordle | Software Engineering | Campus Web Solutions
Ishan Patel | Chemical Engineering | Evonik
Jackson Curtis | Civil & Environmental Engineering | National Center for Asphalt Technology
Jagger Lynn | Computer Engineering | Neptune Technology Group
Jesus Ruelas Barragan | Electrical Engineering | Georgia Power
Lauren Powell | Chemical Engineering | International Paper
Leighanna Howell | Mechanical Engineering | Neptune Technology Group
Nathan Plourde | Electrical Engineering | Neptune Technology Group
Peyton Carr | Industrial & Systems Engineering | Johnson & Johnson
Ryan Fuerst | Mechanical Engineering | Mercedes-Benz U.S. International
Seth Walker | Chemical Engineering | ExxonMobil
Sricharan Ramalakshm | Mechanical Engineering | Nissan North America
Tucker Strane | Aerospace Engineering | IS4S and Fokker Services Group
Already completed a co-op rotation?
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