FAQs

Co-op at Northeastern is a form of work-integrated learning that combines intentional, goal-oriented, and reflective learning that becomes part of your academic program. Unlike typical internships (which are work experiences outside your academic program), co-ops are integrated into your curriculum, are longer in duration (3-8 months depending on your program), and allow for deeper skill development and project involvement. An internship can be considered a co-op if it meets co-op requirements and is approved by your co-op advisor.

No, co-op is optional for students at Northeastern’s Canadian campuses. However, it is highly recommended as a valuable opportunity to gain professional experience before graduation.

No, co-op is NOT a placement program. We cannot guarantee you will get a co-op job. Co-op is highly competitive, and students search for, apply to, and interview for their own jobs with support from the Career Development and Experiential Learning team.

This varies by program. Khoury College students can complete up to 8 months total (either as one 8-month term or two 4-month terms). College of Professional Studies students typically complete one 3 or 6-month co-op. Consult your specific program’s co-op advisor for details.

Yes, students enroll in a Co-op Work Experience course during their co-op term. This appears on your transcript but typically does not count toward degree requirements.

Most programs require a minimum 3.0 GPA to participate in co-op and maintain that GPA until the co-op term begins.

Eligibility varies by program but generally requires completing a specific number of credits, maintaining the required GPA, and completing preparation courses. Your co-op advisor will notify you when you’re eligible to begin your search.

No, students cannot participate in co-op during their final academic term. You must return to classes for at least one term after completing co-op.

The primary resource is NUworks, Northeastern’s internal career management platform. After meeting eligibility requirements, you’ll gain access to apply for positions. You may also find opportunities through networking, LinkedIn, or industry-specific job boards, but all positions must be approved by your co-op advisor before accepting any offers.

You can only begin applying for co-op positions after you’ve been notified by your co-op advisor that you’re eligible to search. Do not apply for jobs before receiving this notification, as you would have to turn down any offers you might receive if you’re not yet eligible.

The process is highly competitive, similar to the regular job market. Success depends on your qualifications, preparation, and the current job market. Many factors influence the co-op search, including industry demand, your skills and experience, and the number of students searching in a given term. Co-op is not a placement program, and students must actively search for, apply to, and interview for their own jobs.

If you don’t secure a co-op position during your search term, you can continue with your academic courses. Depending on your program, you may have the opportunity to search again in a future term. Your co-op advisor can help you evaluate your search strategy and improve your approach.

Yes, international students need a valid co-op work permit that does not expire before the end of the intended co-op term. This is different from a standard study permit.

International students must attend an Office of Global Services seminar related to working in Canada and ensure they understand how co-op aligns with their visa requirements. They must also maintain valid immigration status throughout the co-op term.

This depends on your program and visa status. Consult with both your co-op advisor and the Office of Global Services for guidance on international co-op opportunities.

Policies vary by program. Khoury College students with a 3.5 GPA or higher may take a maximum of one course during their co-op term, but not their Capstone course. Always check with your program’s co-op advisor for specific guidelines.

Ending a co-op early is only permitted under special circumstances such as family emergencies. You must immediately notify your co-op advisor and follow their guidance. Terminating a co-op without authorization may result in an unsatisfactory grade for the co-op course.

If you receive a full-time job offer during your co-op, you should discuss this with your co-op advisor. Remember that you must return to complete your academic program after co-op concludes.