Experiential Education

What is Experiential Education (aka Co-op)?

It's a voluntary, independent education program available for all undergraduate and graduate students in any academic area. Work experience is gained with an employer who offers learning opportunities related to a student's academic discipline. The program provides careful supervision with timely evaluation of performance, attitude, and ability of the student on the job. The goal is to help students grow and improve their capabilities.

Why Experiential Education?

The Experiential Education program allows a student to obtain on-the-job learning experiences that can increase motivational and conceptual understanding in the classroom. It can provide a realistic evaluation of your career choice along with the opportunity to earn a supplemental income to aid with college expenses.

Who is Eligible to Participate in the Experiential Education Program?

Students must meet the following requirements:

Register with the Career Services office by establishing your Experience account (takes about 5 minutes!)
Minimum 2.5 GPA (GPA must be maintained while participating in the program)
Full-time student status
Must complete one semester at TTU prior to completing a co-op application
Transfer students from another college or university must complete two full semesters at TTU prior to applying or a co-op assignment

Co-op Plans

There are four co-op scheduling plans available:

Plan A - Student works full-time for an employer for 12 months.
Plan B - Student works alternate semesters at the employer's site (work, return to school, work, etc.)
Plan C - Student will attend college and work approximately 20 hours per week for the employer.
Plan D - Summer only assignment (two or more summers)

Employers may specify in advance that students have completed certain courses prior to the co-op assignment.

The co-op hiring process is competitive. Students must go through an interview process with the employer.

Students participating in the co-op program must register and enroll in one credit hour for each semester of their assignment. This does not count toward graduation requirements.