Cooperative Education

Cooperative Education (or co-op) is a program designed to enhance the learning experience of participants by allowing them to apply classroom knowledge in real-world work environments.

The Co-op Program at USC follows two formats:

Parallel  - Students work twenty hours per week while attending classes full-time at USC.
Alternating  - Students will alternate semesters of working full-time (40 hours/week) and attending classes full-time.

Participating in the USC Co-op program can lead to:

  • Improved academic performance due to "hands-on" application of theories and principles learned in the classroom
  • Increased understanding of potential career options
  • Increased employment marketability (likelihood of more job offers upon graduation)
  • Increased earning potential (likelihood of higher starting salary upon graduation)
  • Consideration for advanced employment opportunities earlier than other candidates
  • An offer of full-time employment from co-op employer
 

As a student in the USC Co-op program, you will receive:

  • Income earned while participating in co-op
  • Full-time student status which will assist you with avoiding complications related to insurance, financial aid, academic advising and housing, even while you are away from campus
  • Experience in your chosen field
  • Exposure to a professional work setting, easing your transition to full-time jobs after graduation
  • Official co-op notation on your transcript
  • A certificate of completion from the University signed by the USC President & Vice President of Student Affairs

Plus, you will already:

  • Be enrolled in the JobMate database for participation in the resume referral and on-campus interviewing programs for full-time jobs
  • Have developed resume and interviewing skills for future job searches
Information for Students

Information for Employers