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The 2023 Guide to Starting and Growing a Co-op or Internship Program

Starting an internship or co-op program can seem intimidating, especially for companies where everyone wears a lot of hats and there’s not always an official policy or procedure for how things get done. Partnerships with colleges and universities are the best way to start connecting with candidates. This guide provides field-tested best practices to help you get up and running in no time!

Guide features:

  • Big ideas for quick wins
  • Building your brand on campus
  • Pre-hire engagement
  • On-boarding
  • Maximizing productivity
  • Planning for the future

Methodology

  • 65 co-op/internship employers from more than 15 unique industry sectors
  • 50 college/university faculty and staff representing 24 unique institutions
  • More than 1,250 qualitative responses
     

The #1 Public University

for Co-op and Internships


–U.S. News & World Report

Co-op and Internship: What is the Difference?

Cooperative Education

Full-time (35 hours per week), paid, supervised, rotational professional experiences for students; ongoing rotations of semesters or quarters dedicated to school or work.

Internships

Part-time or full-time, supervised professional experiences for students, often completed while simultaneously taking classes; may be paid or unpaid.

Tested. Proven. Trusted.

2,000
companies hired UC co-op students in 2021-22
7,500+
co-op placements
in 2021-22
96%
of UC grads are employed or continuing their education

Ready to hire?

  • Already hiring co-op or internship roles at your company? Contact engagement@uc.edu to post a job to our co-op/internship listings and begin recruiting the next generation of top talent.