Students

Cooperative Education is a university-wide, work-based learning program that provides students with preparation, counseling, academic projects and the opportunity to reflect on what is learned. These activities will enhance your academic learning, build maturity and develop insight, while preparing you to function effectively in the workplace.

Your co-op experience will help you...

• Clarify your career goals, select courses, and confirm your career decision
• Obtain professional work experience that contributes to your academic, personal and professional development
• Gain hands-on experience to become more prepared for the job market or graduate school
• Develop skills in the workplace, such as communication, teamwork and problem solving skills
• Develop an understanding of workplace ethics
• Observe strategies and tactics employed by businesses while getting valuable direct work experience
• Network to meet professionals in your career field
• Earn college credit

Because co-op is an academic experience, Montclair State University expects students to integrate the learning that goes on in the workplace with their formal studies. Co-op students are aided in this activity by Co-op Faculty Advisors.

The role of your Co-op Faculty Advisor

Once you accept a position with an organization and officially register for a co-op course, you will be assigned to a Co-op Faculty Advisor who will supervise the academic component of your co-op. Together, you and your Co-op Faculty Advisor will develop a learning agreement, which is the plan for learning that outlines the academic projects to be completed during the semester.

How to get started

1. If you are interested in participating in Cooperative Education please visit Morehead Hall Room 337 anytime the office is open to listen to the narrated Who We Are PowerPoint presentation.  During that presentation you will learn all the requirements needed to participate in our Co-op program. Please make sure to set aside at least 1 hour for the presentation.  Listening to this presentation is the required first step in Cooperative Education.

2. If you would like more information about the rules and regulations of Cooperative Education, click on FAQs on the right side of this page.

3. Make an appointment to meet with your Co-op advisor by calling 973.655.5194 after you have listened to the required presentation.

Reasons Students Gave for Participating in Cooperative Education

1.  To obtain credit
2.  To enhance classroom learning
3.  To obtain work experience in my field
4.  To build my resume
5.  To assist in my career goals
6.  To assist in choosing a major/career
7.  To prepare for my career
8.  To gain exposure to the job possibilities in my major/career
9.  To learn
10. To network with individuals in their career