Cooperative Education focuses on increasing the opportunities for real-world learning experiences that connect people to meaningful and well-paying jobs.
- Network with professionals in your field of study
- Gain real-world experience
- Apply your classroom knowledge and personal skills
- Enhance your resume.
Through cooperation between the student, instructor and an employer, one credit can be earned for every 33 hours of work related to a program of study at LCC. Many LCC programs have established Cooperative Education courses (course numbers 288/289). Students may enroll for a maximum of 15 credits toward a degree or certificate program; 1-5 credits of work experience (288) per quarter, plus a one-credit seminar (289) option. It's similar to having a temporary job, but with an academic component. You'll have assignments to do, just like any other class. Cooperative work experience may be paid or volunteer work related to your program of study. Work Study jobs may qualify.
Students will be assigned to an instructor in the related field of study to guide them through the work-based learning process. Students will develop learning objectives with the assistance of an LCC instructor and job site supervisor, applying the theories, concepts and methods learned in the classroom to a real job setting. Students also take a one-credit Cooperative Education seminar to build a portfolio or research a work-related topic to help prepare for future employment.
Cooperative Education Opportunities
Students who are enrolling for their first term of Cooperative Education are required to complete one (1) credit of Cooperative Education Portfolio Seminar. To ensure students have the skills and materials necessary to secure a high-quality internship, it is recommended that Seminar be completed prior to applying for work experience, however many students successfully complete work experience and Portfolio Seminar at the same time.
In today's economic climate, employees need to have application materials that stand out in a crowd. Portfolio Seminar provides students with the skills and tools necessary to apply for and obtain employment.
Students who complete the seminar will be asked to create an employment portfolio, participate in career exploration activities and prepare for job interviews. Students will discuss and develop the elements of an effective resume, cover letter and letter of interest. Following course completion, students will have the skills necessary to assess job openings in specific geographic areas.
Securing an internship placement is similar to finding a job. You need to be on the cutting edge and stand out from the crowd. A career specialist can help you achieve your personal and professional goals!
An internship is an ideal way to apply your course training in a relevant career environment. Add this practical experience to your resume and cover letter in order to display your skills and training.
Securing an internship is easier if you have resources!
Steps to Finding an Internship
- Talk with your program advisor about internship opportunities
- Use the Career Center to help you "target" your resume, draft a letter of interest, and locate an internship opportunity in your field of study
How do I express my desire to work with an employer in an internship position?
Professionalism matters! Practice explaining that as a Cooperative Education student, the employer liability is negligible because Washington State Student Liability Policy covers Cooperative Education training.
You have training and skills that make you a great fit for your desired internship position. Make sure that you are able to describe the training and skills that you are offering. In addition, clarify that your internship will allow your employer to consider your training, work ethics, and skill sets as new positions open.
When should I start looking for an internship?
If you have a desired company, start talking with a representative 1 - 2 months prior to the start of the quarter. If you don't have any leads, talk with your program advisor.
Requirements
To participate in Cooperative Education, students need to have completed nine credits of program-related courses and have at least a 2.0 GPA. To enroll, students must have permission from their LCC program instructors and receive entry codes for registration and the required agreements each quarter from the Cooperative Education office. Independent Study (299) credits also count toward the 15-credit maximum.
You can apply for Cooperative Education along with any other Workforce Education program using the Universal Application procedure below:
Already enrolled in Cooperative Education?
Note: For help with books, please obtain a list of your required books and prices from the LCC Bookstore.