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Cooperative Education

Cooperative Education Application

Philosophy
The Cooperative Education program provides the student with work experience in his/her chosen field of study. The program enables the student to combine classroom instruction with practical, on-the-job experience in industry, business, government, or in a service organization. The objective of the program is to develop a balance between academic and work experience in the student's major field of interest.

Eligibility
The Cooperative Education Program is open to qualified students in all major fields. Students must be in good academic standing, must have declared a major, must be completing at least 6 semester hours at Athens State and must have a cumulative grade point of 2.5 or better

Options
Parallel Co-op
The student works 15 to 25 hours per week year-round while attending school full time. One credit hour is awarded for successful completion of each parallel co-op semester.

Alternating Co-op
The student works a semester full time (40 hours per week), then attends school full time the following semester. This assignment is usually shared by a pair of students on an alternating basis. Two credit hours are awarded for successful completion of each alternating co-op semester

Procedures for Application

	Students should apply as soon as they are considered a degree seeking student by the University and enrolled in a minimum of 6 semester hours
	Complete an "Application for the Cooperative Education Program". This form must be typed , and can be filled out on computer in Career Services.
	Provide an unofficial copy of your latest college transcript (available through the Registrars Office), a copy of your current resume, and
	Provide one letter of recommendation from a previous employer or professor. Choose someone who will validate your qualifications, good work habits and promise as a successful co-op student. The letter must be typed on their letterhead, signed, and dated.
	Arrange for a preliminary interview with a member of the Co-op staff to determine career goals, qualifications, and other factors related to employability.
	The Cooperative Education Office will nominate qualified students to employers based on employer requirements.

The Co-op Student's Responsibilities

	The co-op student is a representative of Athens State University and has a responsibility to future students seeking co-op possibilities by setting a good work example.
	The co-op student must register for 1 course during the regular registration process each term for either CP 301-308 (parallel) or CP 401-410 (alternating); courses are sequential (see class schedule for registration).
	The co-op student is expected to maintain a cumulative G.P.A. of 2.5 or better each semester in order to continue in the Cooperative Education Program.
	The co-op student is expected to be a regular, reliable and productive employee.
	The co-op student agrees to remain with the original employer until graduation unless a curriculum change dictates a change of employer, or unless dropped by either Athens State University or the employer.
	The co-op student will submit home and work telephone, email and address changes to the Co-op Office immediately.
	Any changes in the co-op program work schedule must be done only in consultation with both the Co-op Office and employer.

Evaluation
There are no quizzes or exams for the course. A letter grade [A,B,C,D,F] will be based on total points accumulated for:

	Employer evaluation of your acquired knowledge, skills, and work performance.
	Quality of term paper / career reports you submit.
	Student Work Report Evaluation Form.
	Your attendance at one (1) Co-op meeting each semester for professional development.
	Meeting all deadlines

You may use eight (8) hours of semester credit earned in Cooperative Education as general electives toward a bachelor's degree.