CO-OP


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. A staff member from each area will reach out based on your selection(s). CDCR offers a Canvas course to support your search for co-op and internship search called Co-op + InternReady. 

 

INTERESTED? STEPS TO GET STARTED:
  1. Attend an Interest Meeting: These usually take place during the first few weeks of each semester. See Upcoming Co-op + Internship Events
  2. Complete the Professional Experience Interest Form.
  3. Receive academic advisor approval on the Co-op Alternation Plan.
  4. Meet with an Engineering Career Coach: Schedule an Appointment on Handshake
  5. Upload your revised resume to Handshake.
  6. 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?

Your path to co-op success at Auburn starts with a personalized roadmap: the Co-op Work Plan. This tailor-made academic blueprint, crafted by the Office of Engineering Career Development and Corporate Relations (CDCR), integrates your future co-op rotations into your upcoming school semesters. This plan ensures you never miss a vital class by carefully scheduling around your co-op experiences. 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?

Upon completion of the Professional Experience Interest Form, you will receive a personalized work plan via email. 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 schedule a meeting 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.

 

Does co-op always delay graduation?

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

  1. Conduct a co-op search | Stay in communication with your Engineering Career Coach, Academic Advisor, and International Student Advisor to help you prepare for and engage in the search.
  2. Obtain a written co-op offer letter from a company or organization.
  3. Report your Co-op to the Engineering CDCR
  4. Obtain Curricular Practical Training (CPT) application form at the Office of International Students and Scholars Services.
    1. Obtain signature approval from your department
    2. Register for COOP 4910 (first work term) (0-credit) during the semester you will engage in the co-op experience
    3. Complete and submit your CPT application
    4. 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

 

 

Summer 2024   (12 weeks)

Report to Work     Monday, May 6

Evaluations Due    Wednesday, July 24

Work Term Ends    Friday, August 2

Fall 2024 (20 weeks)

Report to Work     Monday, August 5

Evaluations Due    Wednesday, December 4

Work Term Ends    Friday, December 20

Spring 2025   (20 weeks)

Report to Work     Monday, January 6

Evaluations Due    Wednesday, May 7

Work Term Ends    Friday, May 23

Summer 2025   (12 weeks)

Report to Work     Monday, May 5

Evaluations Due    Wednesday, July 23

Work Term Ends    Friday, August 1

Fall 2025 (20 weeks)

Report to Work     Monday, August 4

Evaluations Due    Wednesday, December 10

Work Term Ends    Friday, December 19

 

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.

Group Photo - Wide

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 headshot

Annabel Morrisard

Chemical Engineering

Co-op, SABIC

Bexley Knight headshot

Bexley Knight

Industrial & Systems Engineering

Internship, STERIS | LPL Financial

Callie Stevenson headshot

Callie Stevenson

Electrical Engineering

Co-op, NASA

Camille Daugherty headshot

Camille Daugherty

Civil Engineering

Co-op, Enercon Services

Campbell Brown headshot

Campbell Brown

Electrical Engineering

Co-op, Neptune Technology Group | Internship, Leonardo DRS

Jackson Miller headshot

Jackson Miller

Industrial & Systems Engineering

Co-op, Mercedes-Benz

William Kong headshot

William Kong

Industrial & Systems Engineering

Co-op, Delta Air Lines

Chris Hinkson headshot

Chris Hinkson

Software Engineering

Co-op, Club Car

Evan Long headshot

Evan Long

Mechanical Engineering

Co-op, BMW

Glen Stahl headshot

Glen Stahl

Materials Engineering + Industrial & Systems Engineering

Co-op, GE Appliances | Internship, Disneyland, Los Alamos National Laboratory

Jacob Hurst headshot

Jacob Hurst

Civil Engineering

Co-op, Engineering Consulting Services

Jagger Lynn headshot

Jagger Lynn

Computer Engineering

Co-op, Neptune Technology Group

Jesvin Joseph headshot

Jesvin Joseph

Computer Engineering

Co-op, Club Car

Josh Dobelbower headshot

Josh Dobelbower

Aerospace Engineering

Co-op, Gulfstream Aerospace Company

Kralyn Thomas headshot

Kralyn Thomas

Industrial & Systems Engineering

Internship, KIA | Milliken & Co

Leighanna Howell headshot

Leighanna Howell

Mechanical Engineering

Co-op, Neptune Technology Group

Peyton Carr headshot

Peyton Carr

Industrial & Systems Engineering

Co-op, Johnson & Johnson

PJ Green headshot

PJ Green

Mechanical Engineering

Internship, International Paper | Co-op, Honda

Shrimayi Karanam headshot

Shrimayi Karanam

Industrial & Systems Engineering

Co-op, Johnson & Johnson

Tori McDermott headshot

Tori McDermott

Chemical Engineering

Co-op, SABIC

Tucker Strane headshot

Tucker Strane

Aerospace Engineering

Internship, Integrated Solutions for Systems | Co-op, Fokker

Tyler Teufel headshot

Tyler Teufel

Software Engineering

Internship, LPL Financial

Wesley Lowman headshot

Wesley Lowman

Computer Science

Co-op, NASA

Internships


INTERNSHIPS are one-semester professional work experiences that offer meaningful, practical work related to your field of study or career interest.

Seeking guidance for your internship search? Join Co-op + Intern Ready! Complete the interest form and select "internships"

 

Have you secured an internship for a future semester?

   *A formal, approved offer letter is required to submit this reported internship work experience. 

 

Internships can take place during a fall or spring semester, but typically take place during the summer. You are eligible to intern as early as the summer after your freshman year, although some employers may prefer students who have completed more in-depth coursework.

QUICK FACTS

  • Most Engineering internships are paid. The median reported internship salary is $23/hour based on the 2022-2023 academic year.
  • Internships are typically 10-12 weeks and can take place any semester.
  • Over 100 companies recruit intern students each Fall and Spring semester.
  • In recent years, starting salaries for Auburn Engineering students with co-op or internship experience were 8% higher than students with no professional experience.

 

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN INTERNSHIP AND CO-OP?

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 0-credit hour course to maintain student status.
Co-op
  • Three-semester commitment with the same company.
  • 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.
Already completed an internship?

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. A staff member from each area will reach out based on your selection(s). CDCR offers a Canvas course to support your job search for co-op and internships called Co-op + Intern Ready. 

 

Meet with an Engineering Career Coach

Need more individualized support? Whether you are just beginning to learn about internships and consider the possibility or you are well on your way to seeking and securing an internship, you can meet with an Engineering Career Coach for guidance in the process.

 

Where to Search

Target your internship search by identifying criteria for your search. Consider focusing on a particular industry, position type, and/or location. This will help you effectively market yourself to the specific employers you're interested in. Focus on no more than 10 - 15 organizations at one time.

Search Tools, Resources, and Events

Recruiting Timeline

Internship application deadlines vary, often depending on specific industry areas and organization types. It is best to identify potential organizations of interest early in the fall semester to determine where the deadline might fall and proceed accordingly.

This timeline outlines a typical on-campus recruiting schedule for each academic year.

Aug - Oct: Recruiting and INverviewing, Nov - Dec: Confirming decisions and making offfers, Jan - Feb: Recruiting, Mar - Apr: Confirming decisions and making offers, June: Start full-time or internship role, Typically Larger Companies Recruit in the fall while smaller companies recruit in the spring
Early September

Recruitment activity begins

September

Peak volume for on-campus recruiting events

October

High-volume on-campus recruiting activity continues

November

Reduced on-campus recruiting activity

December

No on-campus recruiting activities

January - February

High volume for on-campus recruiting events

March - April

On-campus recruiting continues, typically for "just-in-time" hiring

Once you secure an internship, you should complete the following steps:

1. Report your Internship! Complete the form below, which will include providing a copy of your job offer letter.

2. Enroll in the Engineering Internship Course, ENGR 3920 (UG) or 7920 (GR). Enroll for the semester in which you will be completing your internship - fall, spring, or summer. ENGR 3920 is a 0-credit hour, $0-fee course that documents your internship experience on your transcript. 

Course Registration Deadlines: 

  • Summer 2024 | May 17, 2024
  • Fall 2024 | August 23, 2024
  • Spring 2025 | January 17, 2025

Benefits of ENGR 3920 and 7920

  • Maintain enrollment as a student and connection with the University while at work
  • Allows you to request placing your scholarships on hold and dining plans can be removed while you are at work
  • Receive a certificate to commemorate your achievement
  • Receive structured feedback on job performance and guidance to convey performance strengths on your resume using the SkillSurvey Career Readiness competencies
  • Access to ENGR 3920 Canvas course providing resources for your internship experience

Topics Covered in ENGR 3920 and 7920

  • Job onboarding documents and materials
  • How to network, leverage your work experience, and make the most of your internship
  • Positive work habits
  • Resources for personal and career development
  • Strategies for the transition between work and school
  • How to respond to inappropriate interactions or experiences in a workplace setting

3. Celebrate at SignENG Day. Once you report your internship, we also hope you will celebrate with us at the upcoming SignENG Day event, which takes place during Engineering Spirit Week each semester. Make sure to see event details and register.

Steps to Obtain Work Authorization

  1. Conduct an internship search | Check out the resources above for How to Search. Stay in communication with your Engineering Career Coach, Academic Advisor, and International Student Advisor to help you prepare for and engage in the search.
  2. Obtain a written internship offer letter from a company or organization.
  3. Report your internship to the Engineering CDCR
  4. Obtain Curricular Practical Training (CPT) application form at the Office of International Students and Scholars Services.
    1. Obtain signature approval from your department
    2. Register for ENGR 3920 (undergraduate) or 7920 (graduate) Engineering Internship Course (0-credit) during the semester you will engage in the internship
    3. Complete and submit your CPT application
    4. Confirm CPT work authorization approval - reviewed by the Office of International Students and Scholars Services.

When should I accept the internship offer?

The Office of International Students and Scholars Services cannot process your CPT application until after your enrollment in ENGR 3920. If ever in doubt about the timing of your internship 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 internship?

Fall and Spring Semesters

  • Part-time internship | Enroll in ENGR 3920 or 7920 (0) and additional courses to remain a full-time student
  • Full-time internship | Enroll in ENGR 3920 or 7920 (0) + COOP 4910 (0) to remain enrolled as a full-time student

Summer Semester

  • Part-time and full-time internships | Enroll in ENGR 3920 or 7920 (0)
  • You are not required to enroll in additional coursework during the summer for internship reporting or work authorization purposes

Salary: Internship positions are paid positions.

Housing: Internship 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. 

For additional questions, contact Dining Services at dining@auburn.edu or 334.844.8504.

Scholarship Eligibility: During a work term, 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 during a work semester. 

Co-op + Internship Events