Co-Op

Cooperative Education, or "Co-op," is the integration of applied learning in a practical work experience related to the student's major. Students receive academic credit for their field related work by enrolling in a Co-Op course. Employment is approved by the educational institution as a suitable learning experience where students are engaged in productive and challenging work (rather than merely observing), and the student's progress on the job is monitored by the educational institution and is evaluated by the employer.

At Florida Tech, Co-op is tied to academic semesters and students are allowed to work full- or part-time any semester, for a single semester, or back-to-back semesters. Florida Tech undergraduate students have the option of turning their work or internship experience into academic credit by applying and registering for Co-op at the start of the semester in which they're working (Co-op credits cannot be applied retroactively).

Co-ops offer 1, 2, or 3 elective credits per semester based off the quantity of hours worked by the student (full time, or 30+ hours a week, earns 3 credits). Students maintain their full-time student status in Fall and Spring by working full-time when enrolled in Co-op for academic credit.

Co-op at Florida Tech is an optional program and is available to every major, with appropriate departmental approvals. You can only enroll in the course in the semester you are working, NO retroactive enrollment or credit can be given.

How to Register

If you've received an employment offer and would like to register for Co-op, you can begin the application process by filling out the packet below. Enter your name and e-mail, along with your advisor's name and e-mail to initiate the online forms (have your offer letter ready to upload):

Co-Op Application Packet - Domestic Student Co-Op Application Packet - International Student

Only Career Services can register you for this course (you cannot do it through PAWS). You will be asked to enter your academic advisor's name and email address as part of the application. International students will also be required to complete a CPT form with their application.

International students:Co-Op courses may be used as an option for CPT requirements to work off campus. Please reach out to ISSS@fit.edu for CPT related questions.

Co-Op Frequently Asked Questions

What are the eligibility requirements for participating in Co-op (CWE 1001, 2001, 3001, 4001, 5000)?

Enrolled full time in a degree program at Florida Tech
Maintain a 2.0 undergraduate GPA or a 3.0 graduate GPA
Complete at least 24 semester hours at Florida Tech, or one full-time semester at Florida Tech if a transfer or graduate student
Receive a job or internship offer from an employer in your field

International students must be enrolled in a program of study and must have maintained lawful F1 or J1 student status for two consecutive semesters, and have completed a Curricular Practical Training (CPT) workshop offered by the Office of International Student and Scholar Services.

What are the registration requirements for an undergraduate technical Co-op (CWE 3003)?

In addition to the core requirements for all Co-ops listed above, undergraduate students should be at least a junior (class level may be waived by Co-op advisor) and must work at least 30 hours per week for Fall and Spring semesters (40 hours per week for Summer), as CWE 3003 exclusively offers 3 credits. Limited 1-time registration per student.

Do I have to enroll in a Co-op course if I am an international student?

Co-op is one of three options for international students to obtain Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Co-op, thesis/dissertation, or a required internship for their major. CPT may be authorized by the institution (NOT by USCIS) for F-1 students participating in curricular-related employment such as Cooperative Education (Co-op). The work experience used to apply for Co-op must be deemed an integral part of an established curriculum in the student’s course of study. Undergraduate and graduate international students can use Co-op for CPT.

Can I enroll in a Co-op course if I am an online, extended studies, or continuing education student?

No. Co-op is only available to students attending the main Florida Tech campus.

I am a main campus student, but my work experience is remote. Can this apply to Co-op?

Yes. As long as the work experience is deemed relevant to your major by your academic advisor.

Will I get credit for my co-op?

Fall and Spring Semesters

Students receive academic credit based on their total hours worked per 15-week semester.

1-19 hours per week = 1 credit
20-29 hours per week = 2 credits
30+ hours per week = 3 credits

Summer Semester

Students receive academic credit based on their total hours worked per 11-week semester.

1-19 hours per week = 1 credit
20-29 hours per week = 2 credits
3 credits are usually awarded for 40 hours per week

What is the difference between a Co-op and an internship at Florida Tech?

At Florida Tech, Co-op is a term used for a program that allows students to earn credit for their major-related work experience, internships being a common type of “work experience” students use to register for Co-op. Some companies may advertise their work experience as a Co-op, which typically indicates an internship-type experience that takes place over multiple semesters. This type of employer-specified “Co-op” is not required to register for Co-op at Florida Tech.

Do I have to register for Co-op if I get an internship/work experience?

No, domestic students do not have to register, though we hope students choose to apply their work experience to gaining Co-op credit, it is optional. International students must register in order to meet CPT requirements.

How do I find a work experience to participate in Co-op?

Students independently apply to any internships or work experience in their field, we do not have set placements. You can register Co-op once you receive a company offer letter. Florida Tech’s Career Services offers several employment events and appointments in Handshake to assist you in your job search.

How is Co-op graded? What assignments are required?

This course will appear on your transcript, with a final Pass/Fail grade assigned. Assignments are detailed on the course syllabus and will be reviewed by the Co-op advisor, these include:

Midterm check-in survey and self-reflection
Performance evaluation completed by your employer
Final report

Can I get academic credit for jobs I’ve held in the past?

No, academic credit is not awarded retroactively for Co-op. Credit is also not awarded for hours the student has worked prior to registering for co-op.

Can I register myself for Co-op online?

No, a representative from Career Services will facilitate your Co-op registration. International students will have to complete additional paperwork provided by International Student and Scholar Services.

Am I considered a full-time student if I do a Co-op?

Undergraduate and graduate students who enroll in a full time (3 credits) Co-op are considered full time students in the Fall and Spring semesters. Students must be working full time (30+ hours per week). This does not apply to Summer semesters. Speak to Financial Aid regarding questions about scholarships and awards.

How much does Co-op cost?

$120 administration fee
$75 technical fee

This is regardless of the semester or credits awarded. There is no tuition charged for Co-op. Please speak to the Registrar's Office if you have any questions about the fees associated with Co-op.