Frequently Asked Questions about Co-op
Looking for a Job
Will employers be interested in me, even though I don't have any experience?
Employers in the Co-op program are looking for students, so they expect that you may not have experience in your field outside the classroom.
I have not completed the minimum requirements for Co-op. Can I start looking for a Co-op job now?
Yes! Set up your eRecruiting account, and you’ll receive “browse only” status. This way you can look for jobs, and if you find one you’d like to apply for simply contact our staff for assistance.
Do Co-op credits count toward my degree?
Up to four credits of ENGR 321 count toward degree requirements for undergraduates. Some engineering departments accept Co-op credits for specific requirements as well. Check with us or your department advisor for specifics.
I am graduating next quarter. Can I look for a Co-op job that will start right after I graduate?
No. The Co-op program is an opportunity for students to integrate theory and practice during their education. Co-op students are expected to return to campus for at least one quarter prior to graduating.
When do I begin to apply for jobs if I have a specific quarter when I want to work?
It’s important to start the job hunt early because some employers make their job offers very early. Others are still looking for students even after the quarter they want to hire has begun. So, it’s never too early or too late to look for a Co-op job.
If I find a job on my own, can it be a Co-op?
Yes. Quite often students find jobs through other resources and want Co-op credits. Please contact us to make sure the job (and you) qualify. We’re glad to help!
I’m not an engineering major. Can I still participate?
Co-op jobs are 50% or more engineering-related. If that’s what you are looking for, and you are in a STEM field, you might qualify. Check with our office to find out if you qualify.
I’m an International Student (F-1 Visa). Can I work in a Co-op?
Many Co-op students are at the UW on F-1 visas. The Co-op Program and the International Students and Scholars office are available to explain the process to employers. For more information, see International Student Information.
I’m a transfer student. Can I do a Co-op?
Yes, as long as you have completed at least one quarter at UW and meet the other requirements.
What is the Co-op fee? Do I also pay tuition?
Good news! The Co-op credit fee is much lower than tuition (link to page with costs). The fee supports the Co-op program which is self-sustaining.
Once You Are Hired
What do I do once I accept a Co-op job offer?
Once you have accepted a job offer, contact the Co-op office to set up a pre-work meeting.
When is the pre-work meeting?
See Pre-work meeting.
Will I still get a bus pass and IMA membership while I’m on Co-op?
No. These costs are paid out of the Student Activity Fee which is incorporated into tuition. Co-op students pay a much lower Co-op credit fee instead of tuition. At this point we have not found a way to enable you to pay separately for these services.
Can I still purchase UW Student Insurance?
We can sign you up for UW student medical insurance in the first week of the quarter when you are working. Just let us know at the pre-work meeting.
What if I find a job after the quarter has begun?
Generally speaking, if you job starts before the end of the 4th week of the quarter, you can still register for Co-op. Check with our office, however. International students MUST be registered for Co-op while they are working regardless of when the job begins, so if you are an international student, contact us as soon as you receive a job offer. For more information, see International Student Information.
Can I extend my Co-op?
Contact us as soon as possible so that we can discuss the details. You should also check with your department advisor to make sure you understand the effect this decision will have on your academic plans. International students will need to submit a new CPT authorization request form and obtain a new letter of support from the Co-op office at least a week before the current CPT authorization runs out.
Can I take classes while working on a Co-op?
If you are working full time (21 or more hours per week) we do not recommend that you take classes. If you are working full-time and you are enrolled in Co-op, you will be considered a full-time student at UW. If you are working part-time (20 or fewer hours per week) you will need to take classes to maintain your full-time student status.
What are the requirements for earning credit in Co-op?
Here’s a summary, but check out the To Do List for details: set up an eRecruiting account (whether or not you already have a job); complete the online pre-work self-assessment; attend a pre-work meeting; submit the objective report; submit the Co-op report; submit the poster and present the poster; complete the online post-work self-assessment. If you have trouble completing any of these, we’ll work with you to resolve the problem. See During Co-op: A To Do List.
If my job is out of town, how do I find housing?
Employers often have resources and contacts for housing, and we can help get you connected as well.
How can write the Co-op report and make the poster if the work I’m doing is confidential?
Numerous employers give Co-op students the opportunity to work on sensitive projects. In these cases, the you should limit the information you turn in to a more general description of the work and the experience. Employers will discuss their non-disclosure agreements and other confidentiality concerns with you. We’re always here to help if you have questions in this area!
Are my evaluations private?
Your self-assessments are kept confidential unless you give us permission to share them with other prospective Co-op students who want to learn about the program. Employer evaluations of you are kept confidential.
Contact Engineering Co-op
Ana Wieman,
Engineering Co-op & Internship Program
(206) 685-1789
330 Loew Hall
wieman@uw.edu
Roy Chan,
Engineering Co-op & Internship Program
(206) 685-0385
336 Loew Hall
engrcoop@uw.edu