Attending university is a great time for students to gain robust work experience. Certain US universities offer wonderful programmes that encourage and nurture excellent work experience opportunities for their students.

Cooperative Education

Many universities have launched co-op programmes that provide opportunities for students to engage in the work force while completing their education. Northeastern University in Boston is a leading example of the cooperative education model. At Northeastern, students alternate terms of academic study with terms of full-time work in positions that are related to their academic and career interests. These opportunities are available both in the US and internationally. 96% of Northeastern graduates participate in at least one co-op course. To prepare for these intensive professional experiences, students are required to take a preparatory co-op course, giving them the tools they need to succeed in the workplace. Students usually start these programmes in their second year of university and can complete two co-ops over the course of their four years or they can extend their studies by a year to complete a third cop-op. Students receive comprehensive support from Northeastern, including an academic advisor and a co-op coordinator. These experiences enhance their academic studies as students are asked to reflect upon their co-op term through seminars, meetings, and assignments.

Many other institutions have adopted this co-op model. If the cooperative education model interests you, we recommend that you research Drexel University, Georgia Tech, and Purdue University if you are interested in engaging in cooperative education.

Internships

Many universities encourage students to complete internships during their undergraduate studies. Internships can be a great way of getting workplace experience, adding to their CV, and building a professional network for after graduation. At Endicott College, students are required to complete at least three internships over the course of their studies. Students have access to many resources, including mentorship, work experience preparation courses, and advisors.

However, internships are often unpaid and can be inaccessible as a result. A growing number of universities are committed to funding internships for their students. The University of Notre Dame covers food, transportation, and housing expenses for eligible students. These funding opportunities are provided through the office for Undergraduate Career Services which also support students in finding and succeeding at work placement opportunities.

Many other notable universities offer extensive internship opportunities and financial support, including Duke University, MIT, Cornell, and Harvard.

Whether you are looking for a cooperative education, you want to know what opportunities are out there for internships, or you are thinking about how to fund your work experience, Vela Education is here to assist you. We aim to provide ethical and transparent advice tailored to your individual needs during your university search, application process, and beyond. If you have any questions about work experience, or any aspect of the US university application process, consider scheduling a strategic consultation or reaching out to us directly.