Which US universities have strong Co-Op programs I should look at?
Universities often cited for Co-Op include Northeastern University, Drexel University, the University of Cincinnati, Georgia Institute of Technology, Stevens Institute of Technology and Rochester Institute of Technology. Compare how many work terms they require, which majors they cover and how strong their employer ties are.
Several US universities are known for building paid work terms into their degrees. Instead of picking by name alone, compare how each one structures Co-Op for your major. Here are some examples and their highlights.
Universities with well-known Co-Op models
| University | Co-Op highlights |
|---|---|
| Northeastern University | One of the oldest and largest Co-Op programs; nearly 10,000 students take part each year |
| Drexel University | Mandatory Co-Op for most majors; 6 to 18 months of full-time work; over 1,600 employer partners |
| University of Cincinnati | Originator of the US Co-Op model; five paid work semesters built into degrees |
| Georgia Institute of Technology | Five-year Co-Op with alternating study and paid work semesters |
| Stevens Institute of Technology | Two co-op work semesters for students entering from Fall 2025; popular in engineering and computer science |
| Rochester Institute of Technology | Up to 1.5 years of full-time paid experience across STEM and arts programs |
| Wentworth Institute of Technology | Two full Co-Op semesters required for all undergraduates |
| University of Toledo | Co-Op is mandatory for College of Engineering students |
How to evaluate a Co-Op program
- Check whether Co-Op is mandatory or optional for your major.
- Look at the number and length of work terms and how they affect graduation time.
- Review the strength of employer partnerships in your industry.
- Ask how international students are supported in securing placements.
My Advice
Shortlist universities by your major and career target first, then compare their Co-Op structure, cost and location. Confirm current details on each university's official Co-Op page.
This information is available on: stevens.edu
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