Sponsored by the Office of the Provost

Are you an undergraduate student interested in pursuing graduate school or research as a career? The information below is intended to help you understand the process of pursuing a Research Co-op and how faculty play a key role in obtaining funding for research co-ops on campus.

How Does the Research Co-op Process Work?

Faculty Role: Submit Proposal & Gain Approval

Faculty submit research co-op proposals, outlining the project, a student’s potential role, the skills a student would gain, and how a student would be involved in key deliverables. These proposals are evaluated based on intellectual merit, broader impacts, and potential professional development opportunities. After the proposal review, a set number of research co-op projects will be approved for funding. These opportunities will be posted in WITworks and students must apply by the designated deadline.

Student’s Role: Application & Interview Process

Once these opportunities are posted in WITworks, students can apply for a research co-op that aligns with their interests. The application typically includes a resume and a personal statement explaining the student’s goals and how the research project fits their academic and career aspirations. Faculty review student applications, considering qualifications and how well the student’s skills align with the research project. If selected, students are invited for an interview. If a student receives and accepts an offer, the student will continue working with the faculty supervisor to better understand the role, expectations, and deliverables. The student and the faculty supervisor would work together to finalize a work schedule, ensuring the required 30 hours/week and 13-week requirement for co-op credit are met.

FAQs

Still Have Questions?

Contact Director of Cooperative Education, Narali Taglialavore, taglialavoren@wit.edu.