Co-op/Internship Program Frequently Asked Questions - Students

Can anyone participate in seeking credit through the Co-op/Internship Program?

Since the Co-op/Internship Program is an academic program, the academic departments establish qualifications for participation. In general, you must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 (some departments require a higher GPA) and have at least a sophomore standing. In addition, transfer students must have been a student at UNI for at least one semester.

If I haven't declared a major, can I still qualify for co-op?

There is a good probability that you can. Visit with one of the professional staff members in the Cooperative Education/Internship Program office in SSC 214 (E. Bartlett) by calling 273-6041 for an appointment. Having an internship experience could help you decide or confirm your decision about your choice of major.

What if I don't need or want academic credit?

The Cooperative Education/Internship Program serves students seeking academic credit and students who do not plan on receiving academic credit but desire assistance in seeking internship opportunities. Benefits of seeking co-op include:

  • Validation of the experience
  • Co-op credit can often be applied toward degree requirements
  • Completion of an academic project, which makes the internship more meaningful and provides portfolio samples
  • Both employer and the student take the experience more seriously
  • A "safety net" is provided in the event problems or concerns arise with staff providing guidance and assistance as needed.

I am a student athlete. Is participating in a co-op/internship realistic?

Student athletes have special demands upon their time; however, many student athletes have successfully participated in the program. Since athletic schedule requirements vary so much, there is not a single recommendation that fits all. Discuss the possibilities with your academic advisor and one of the professionals in the Cooperative Education/Internship Program Office. Your participation in athletics may be a plus in the eyes of some employers, but it is important that your unique schedule requirements be discussed up front with employers when you are interviewing. If you cannot work a co-op position into your schedule you may be able to gain other kinds of experience through the Experiential Learning Program in Career Services.

How many credits can I earn?

Generally the number of credits will range from 1-3 hours per semester. However, there are some instances where more may be earned.

Is there a cost for the program if I seek co-op credit?

There is a $15 administrative fee when the final paperwork is completed after your co-op/internship has been arranged. The fee helps cover the costs of forms, postage, and activities related to the final paperwork. Since co-op credit is academic credit, there is also a cost for tuition. During the summer the cost of tuition is the standard hourly tuition rate. During the school year, there is no additional cost for credit, as long as your total enrollment--prior to registering for your co-op or internship credits--totals a minimum of twelve semester hours.

Are student loans and health insurance affected by participation in the co-op/intern program?

Even though you may be taking as little as one hour of credit, you can be considered a full-time student while you are participating in a co-op/intern experience if you are working at least thirty-five hours per week. Being considered a full-time student means that your parents' health insurance will still cover you and your loans will not come due. In order to be considered a full-time student, however, you must obtain the proper documentation from the Cooperative Education/Internship Program.

What kinds of co-op/intern opportunities are available?

The Co-op/Internship Program offers a variety of opportunities. The kinds of internships reflect the needs of business and human service organizations, and thus vary with industry, organization, time of year, and geographic location.

For an overview of positions available, see the co-op/intern positions listed on UNI CareerLink under the "Internships" tab (you will not be able to obtain information on the jobs until you are registered with the Co-op/Internship Program). In addition to listed jobs, it may be possible to create your own co-op/intern position for academic credit with an employer. (See response below to the question on using a current job for credit.)

If I qualify for the program, am I guaranteed a co-op/internship?

No. There are many variables including the current job market, the season, competition from other students, and of course, your special qualifications. As in looking for full-time employment, if you work hard at it and present yourself well in your resume, letters, and interview, your chances improve considerably. Professional staff in the Co-op/Internship Office will assist you through position listings and on-campus interview opportunities, individual advising, and informational sessions and workshops.

Do all departments give credit? How many students do this each year?

All UNI academic departments grant credit for appropriate internships in their majors. The Co-op/Internship Program has been growing every year. Typically, 150-200 students participate each semester.

Can I locate my own job and earn academic credit?

Yes, a number of students use this option for earning co-op credit. To use a current job or a job you have located on your own for cooperative education credit, the following requirements must be satisfied:

  1. the work must be related to your major area of study and add to your academic learning;
  2. you must meet your academic department requirements for participation and request on-line faculty approval;
  3. the employer must be approved by the Cooperative Education/Internship Program, be willing to accept a co-op/intern student and agree to complete a one-page performance evaluation of your work;
  4. you would then meet with a Co-op staff member to complete the necessary forms that allow to get registered with the Cooperative Education/Internship Program.

What hours would I work?

Of course it will depend upon your class schedule, but most local employers looking for students to work part-time will expect 10-20 hours per week. Students participating in full-time co-op/internship positions (generally during the summer) may work 40 hours per week.

When would I start work?

Starting dates vary depending upon employer requirements but typically align themselves with the academic semester/term. The starting date will be discussed during the interview with the employer and may be negotiable, depending upon the employer's needs.

Would I be paid for a co-op/internship position?

A large percentage of UNI co-op/internships are paid. Pay may be hourly, commission-based or a set weekly or monthly salary. Some are typically non-paid, particularly in non-profit organizations and law enforcement or in some occupations, such as broadcasting. Payment is related to industry, organization, geography, and the general labor market. Some positions may pay a stipend, such as $300 for an academic term (150-160 hours). Stipend positions are usually with non-profit organizations.

How about housing?

Generally housing is not provided with a co-op/internship position, but it is common for employers to provide some advice for locating housing. A few employers will provide financial assistance or even an apartment as part of their compensation package.