Best Cooperative Programs for STEM Majors

Understanding Cooperative Education for STEM Majors

This article will list the best cooperative programs for STEM majors. We’ll also discuss the different co-op models, their benefits, and tips for choosing the right program.

Let’s be real—STEM can get pretty complex! These fields require a lot of collaboration, from planning projects to making them come to life. Training should start early; cooperative education programs provide that valuable link between what you learn in the classroom and real-world experience.

But what are STEM co-op programs?

Co-ops in STEM give students real-world experience in their field before they graduate. These programs are designed to help them understand the skills they need to succeed. They also learn the ins and outs of the job hunt, like writing a resume, acing interviews, and acting professionally in the workplace.

Related Articles:

• Online Colleges with Cooperative Education Programs: Combining Learning with Real-World Experience
• Top 5 Benefits of Enrolling in a Cooperative Education Program
• Top Industries Actively Hiring Cooperative Program Graduates
• Types of Cooperative Degree Programs: Internship vs. Work-Study Models

Top Cooperative Programs for Science Majors

Pennsylvania State University

Penn State is one of the top schools for students looking for various cooperative education in science and technology.

• Co-op experiences usually last two semesters, with students earning 1-3 credits in SC 295 and SC 395.
• If there’s a third semester, they can register for SC 495.
• These are full-time jobs, typically 40 hours a week, and students stay registered as full-time Penn State students.
• Students get paid, with employers deciding the pay rate.

Co-op students at Penn State have worked with companies and organizations like:

• Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology: Johnson & Johnson, GlaxoSmithKline, Bristol-Myers Squibb
• Government: NIH, FBI, Walter Reed Army Institute
• Non-Profits: Fox Chase Cancer Center, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
• Private Sector: IBM, Lockheed Martin, U.S. Steel

Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory

Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory offers a Cooperative Education Program for physics students. This program gives undergraduates a chance to work with top scientists and engineers. Students apply what they learn in class to exciting projects that are essential to the lab’s mission.

• Participants enjoy a competitive pay rate, paid overtime, and paid holidays.
• There are great networking opportunities, allowing for collaboration with leading scientists and fellow students.
• Assistance is also provided for finding housing, transportation options, and nearby restaurants and stores.

Northeastern University

For over 100 years, Northeastern has been a leader in cooperative education in the sciences. It partners with several large-scale companies specializing in:

• Behavioral Neuroscience
• Biochemistry
• Bioinformatics
• Biology/Cell and Molecular Biology
• Biotechnology
• Chemistry
• Environmental Sciences & Studies/Marine Biology
• Physics

Here are a few things you should know about Northeastern’s co-op programs:

• Most co-ops are full-time, paid positions with no tuition fees.
• Students remain full-time and retain all benefits.
• Students gain up to 18 months of professional experience.
• The program includes a mandatory preparation course.

Wittenberg University

Wittenberg has co-op programs with four top graduate schools. Students typically spend three years at Wittenberg, completing general education and at least 50% of their Biology major before entering the co-op in their senior year.

• Wittenberg has a 3-2 program with Duke University for a Masters in Environmental Science or Forestry.
• Students apply for admission to the co-op program with Duke during the third or fourth year.
• The co-op program offers concentrations in various areas, including Coastal Management and Ecosystem Science.

Drexel University

Medical schools want applicants with real-world experience. Drexel’s co-op program helps pre-med students stand out by enhancing their critical thinking and communication skills. Biological sciences students can do co-ops with various industry leaders, typically in paid research positions. Here are some top employers:

• GlaxoSmithKline
• AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals
• Johnson & Johnson
• Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
• Fox Chase Cancer Institute

Best Engineering Co-op Programs

Northwestern University

The Walter P. Murphy Co-op Program is one of the top providers of engineering co-op opportunities in the US. You’ll get an engineering degree from a leading university and rack up to 18 months of real-world experience.

Co-op Perks:

• Get paid competitively for your work
• Regular performance reviews
• Keep your full-time student status while working
• Tuition discount in your last year
• Option for campus housing during work terms

Cornell University

Cornell’s engineering program is large and highly respected, offering a co-op program for real-world work experience before graduation. You can decide on where you can pursue co-op. However, it must meet the following requirements:

• Engineering-related work
• Paid
• Full-time (37.5+ hours/week)
• Lasts for a fall or spring semester
• Must be with an employer who recognizes the Cornell co-op program, verified upon offer. We don’t keep a “pre-approved” list of eligible employers as policies change.

University of Iowa

The Engineering Cooperative Education & Internship program at The University of Iowa helps students explore and build their careers through professional experiences. These can be summer internships (about ten weeks) or longer co-op placements, all recognized by the College of Engineering.

Case Western Reserve University

At Case Western Reserve University, the Cooperative Education Program provides students a great jumpstart on their job search since many companies hire from their co-op pool. Each year, 20%-30% of engineering and computer science students join the program.

• Co-op is a full-time, paid program that lasts for two semesters, usually during spring/summer or summer/fall.
• It’s available to second-, third-, and fourth-year students, as well as grad students.
• Although it doesn’t earn credit, students must register for courses to maintain their full-time status.

Tufts University

Tufts’s co-op programs provide valuable on-the-job experience, help students explore career options, and allow for networking with professionals. Before starting, co-op students take a course covering essential skills like professionalism, business etiquette, ethics, resume writing, and interview techniques tailored for science-based jobs.

Co-op Opportunities in Technology and Mathematics

Co-ops are especially important for those who want to break into technology and mathematics. Remember the Flash app for web animations? By 2023, it’s been replaced by modern tech like HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript. Technology is evolving quickly, and there’s a high demand for skilled workers.

Technology and math cooperative programs let you gain work experience while studying in a technical field. This hands-on experience is key to getting jobs in these fields. You’ll build valuable skills by working in professional settings that prepare you for your career.

Technology Co-ops

• Software Development: Work with coding, software design, and application testing.
• Data Analysis: Gain experience in data mining, statistical analysis, and data visualization.
• Cybersecurity: Protect systems and networks, learning about threat detection and prevention.
• IT Support: Provide technical support, troubleshoot issues, and learn about system management.

Mathematics Co-ops

• Actuarial Science: Analyze financial risks using mathematics, statistics, and financial theory.
• Operations Research: Focus on optimizing processes and decision-making using mathematical modeling.
• Quantitative Analysis: Apply mathematical and statistical techniques in finance, trading, or investment.
• Statistical Research: Design studies, collect data, and interpret results.

How to Choose the Right Co-op Program for Your STEM Major

The best way to know which of the top co-op programs for STEM students is best for you is to assess your personal interests, career goals, and academic strengths. Here are a few tips on how to choose the right co-op program for your major:

1. Find your passion. Think about what lights your fire in STEM. Is it coding, crunching data, or building machines? Pinpointing your interests will steer you in the right direction.
2. Do your homework. Look for co-op programs that align with your interests. Check out the companies, the projects they’re working on, and the skills you’ll pick up. You want something that excites you.
3. Location, location, location. Where do you want to work? Being close to tech hotspots can open up awesome networking opportunities and resources.
4. Check the buzz. Look into the reputation of the programs you’re eyeing. Ask alumni and current students what they think. You want a program that’s got solid connections with employers!
5. Know the requirements. Make sure you meet the criteria for the co-ops you’re interested in. Some might have specific classes or GPA needs, so don’t get caught off guard!

Benefits of Participating in STEM Co-op Programs

The benefits of co-op education for STEM are significant, especially in STEM fields. As a student, co-op education allows you to:

Gain practical skills.

You switch between classes and work, which means you can put what you learn into practice. This hands-on experience gives you valuable skills and insights you can’t get from lectures alone!

Network with professionals

During work terms, students meet industry pros, which can lead to great networking and future job opportunities. They also get insider info on trends, company culture, and employers’ expectations.

Increase earning potential.

Cooperative degree programs in STEM fields often come with paid positions, so you can earn money while gaining experience. This not only helps cover school expenses but also boosts your overall earning potential after graduation.

Internships vs. Cooperative Education in STEM: Key Differences

There are two main types of hands-on learning for science and technology students: Internships and Cooperative Education. Although both aim to provide students with practical skills and knowledge, they’re not the same. Here are the key differences you need to know:

• Time Commitment: Co-ops are full-time and often span multiple terms, while internships are usually part-time and shorter.
• Payment: Co-ops typically offer full-time pay. Depending on the employer, internships are either paid or unpaid.
• Flexibility: Co-ops require a commitment to one employer for multiple terms, whereas internships allow you to work with different employers and in various fields.
• Degree Length: Co-ops may extend your degree time due to work semesters, while internships usually don’t affect your graduation timeline since they can often be done alongside classes or in the summer.

Choosing between STEM internships vs. co-op programs depends on your preferences and needs. If you’re looking for a deep dive into one company and want a more immersive experience, a co-op might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer flexibility and want to explore different fields or companies, internships could be better.

Tips for Applying to STEM Cooperative Programs

Here are some top tips to help you become a successful co-op candidate.

Consider what you want to get out of your co-op experience.

Consider what matters most: the best experience for your career goals, the highest pay, job title, and the length of the position. Contracts often range from four to eight months, so think about how long you can commit, especially with other responsibilities like finishing your degree.

Prepare your application materials.

Specific application materials will vary. But generally, it includes:

• Resume/CV
• Letters of Recommendation
• Cover Letter/Personal Statement

Stay organized with deadlines.

Create a calendar to list application deadlines, recommendation submission dates, and any required tests. You should also set reminders to give yourself ample time to gather materials and avoid last-minute stress.

Prepare for your interview.

You must understand the company’s mission, values, and culture. Prepare answers to common questions like “Why do you want to work here?” and “How does your experience relate to this role?” Think about a time you faced a challenge and how you handled it.

Don’t get discouraged!

If you don’t get the job, don’t take it personally—employers have various reasons for their choices. Keep applying and interviewing; you’ll find the right co-op for you!

Find the Best Cooperative Programs in STEM

Co-op training is a win for all students, but STEM majors seem to gain the most. They’re a great way to explore your major, try out different types of employers, and build skills that can give you an edge in the job market after graduation.

By the time you graduate, you often have one to five unique job experiences on your resume, which really boosts your chances of landing a job. Plus, you’ll gain valuable insights into the kind of companies you want to work for and the different career paths available in STEM.