Ways to Complete Co-op

At Wentworth, cooperative education (co-op) is more than just a job; it’s a full-time, semester-long professional experience directly related to your field of study. Co-op allows you to apply what you’ve learned in the classroom to real-world projects, giving you a competitive edge before you even graduate. 

Co-op Requirement for Undergraduate Students 

To fulfill Wentworth’s co-op requirements, you’ll work 30-40 hours per week during the semester, typically between the start of classes and the last day of finals. Unlike many other schools, co-op at Wentworth is mandatory—every undergraduate day student must successfully complete two co-op semesters to graduate. 

Why Co-op at Wentworth? 

Wentworth offers one of the most comprehensive co-op programs in the nation. Our students develop crucial skills—such as networking, professional communication, and job search strategies—while earning hands-on experience in their field. By making co-op a degree requirement, Wentworth ensures that graduates are not only career-ready but also highly competitive in the job market. 

Co-op Preparation and Support 

Wentworth is committed to your professional success from day one. You’ll begin by enrolling in COOP2500: Introduction to Cooperative Education, a preparation course designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools to excel in your co-op search. 

You won’t be doing this alone—your dedicated Co-op & Career Advisor will assist you throughout the process, from resume writing to interview preparation. We also host Co-op & Career Fairs each semester, offer specialized workshops, and provide access to a variety of job search tools through our WITworks platform. On-campus recruiting events give you direct access to potential employers. 

Ways to Complete Your Co-op Requirements 

There are several pathways for completing your two mandatory co-ops, each offering unique opportunities for personal and professional growth: 

A traditional co-op takes place outside of Wentworth, typically in your industry of study. Using our job board, WITworks, in combination with other job boards and networking, you can apply to a wide range of co-op opportunities. You will receive guidance and support from your Co-op & Career Advisor on resume building, identifying quality co-ops, and mastering job search strategies like interviewing and application submission. 

Whether you are working with a previous employer or a new one, the purpose of co-op is to provide opportunities for growth, skill-building and career exploration. If you are interested in returning to a previous employer for another co-op, it will be important to identify how this opportunity allows for your developmental growth and an expansion of your professional skills and experience. You will still need to register for co-op if you return to a previous employer and report your hire as a new co-op experience, making sure to outline new learning goals that correspond to your elevated responsibilities.

Want to stay close to home? Wentworth offers paid on-campus co-ops in a variety of roles, giving you the opportunity to contribute to important campus projects while building your resume. On-campus co-op options are limited and vary each semester. Some previously offered co-op positions include: 

  • Accelerate Co-ops (Innovation & Entrepreneurship) 
  • Technology Support Specialist (DTS) 
  • Digital Innovation Support Specialist (DTS) 
  • Lab Assistant/Technician (Various Labs) 
  • Graphic Design Co-op (Co-ops & Careers) 
  • Operations Co-op (Co-ops & Careers) 
  • Project Assistant (School/Department specific) 
  • Women @ Wentworth Initiative 

If you’ve already gained significant professional experience in your field before attending Wentworth, you may be eligible to receive Industry Professional Credit (IPC) for one co-op requirement. IPC is available for students with qualifying work experience, military service, or transfer co-op experience from a previous institution. Your Co-op & Career Advisor can guide you through the petition process but note that IPC approval is not guaranteed. If you have questions about this option, reach out to your Co-op & Career Advisor. 

If you’re struggling to secure a co-op or are currently employed in a non-co-op job, the Professional Development Co-op (PDC) program is a flexible alternative. PDC is an asynchronous program that allows you to fulfill your co-op requirement while continuing your job search. Through this program, you’ll not only refine your job search skills, explore career values, and develop a plan to find the right position, but also enhance relevant industry skills that make you a stronger candidate for future roles. By participating, you’ll stay on track for graduation and extend the timeframe in which you can secure a traditional co-op. PDC can be used as an alternative option for ONE of the two mandatory co-ops.

Please note: PDC is unpaid and asynchronous. Students must opt in to this option if they choose to pursue it after exhausting the traditional co-op search.

Your Success is Our Priority 

Whatever co-op path you choose, consistent communication with your Co-op & Career Advisor is key to your success. By keeping us informed about your plans and progress, we can tailor our support to help you navigate your co-op experience and reach your career goals.