The Cooperative Education Program (Co-op) is a voluntary, independent educational program coordinated through the Office of Career Services, located on the third floor of the Roaden University Center. The program integrates formal classroom study with off-campus work experience. There are three co-op study/work plans: Plan A (alternating one-year cycles), Plan B (alternating semesters), or Plan C (simultaneous work and study assignment).

Co-op work assignments are available in industry and business, agricultural areas, educational systems, and governmental agencies. Students applying for Co-op are not guaranteed work assignments nor stipulated specific job benefits or salaries. Employers determine the salaries and pay students directly. In regard to permanent employment after graduation, participation in the Co-op Program involves no obligation on the part of the university, student, or employer. Co-op experience is a benefit to students in securing full-time employment following graduation. Many students do return to their co-op employers after graduation.

Co-op students are required to complete the same academic program for graduation as non-co-op students. Students must register and pay a fee for a one hour co-op course each semester of their work assignment. Co-op students are classified as part-time by the university.

Students on assignment must submit a work report by an established date and will receive a grade of Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory (S or U). Students must maintain a 2.5 QPA.

Additional information about the Cooperative Education Program may be obtained by contacting the Office of Career Services.