Since 1912, Georgia Tech has offered a five-year Undergraduate Cooperative Program to those students who wish to combine career-related work experience with classroom studies. The program is the fourth oldest of its kind in the world and the largest optional co-op program in the country.

Students typically alternate between industrial assignments and classroom studies until they complete at least 3 terms of work (two of which must be gall or spring). Co-op students complete the same coursework on campus that is completed by non-co-op students. Most co-op students begin the program as freshman or sophomores and are can be classified as full-time students regardless whether they are attending classes on campus or are full-time at an employer’s location.

Participants have the opportunity to develop career interests, gain hands-on work experience, develop human relation skills and earn a paycheck. Graduates of the program receive a bachelor’s degree with the Cooperative Plan Designation.

Students can also complete work assignments in a foreign country as part of the International Cooperative Program. This program is a great opportunity to utilize foreign language skills, gain a global perspective, and experience a diverse culture. Proficiency in a foreign language is necessary to earn the International Cooperative Plan degree designation. For more information on the Cooperative Program, visit: www.coop.gatech.edu.

Internships

The Undergraduate Professional Internship Program is for students who do not participate in the Cooperative Program, but want some career-related work experience before graduation. Students generally work for one semester, usually in the summer, with an option for more work. Students must have completed at least 30 hours of coursework at Georgia Tech before they can participate in the program. For more details, visit: www.upi.gatech.edu.

In addition, there is a Work Abroad Program (www.workabroad.gatech.edu), which complements a student’s formal education with paid international work experience directly related to Materials Science and Engineering. Participating students typically include juniors and seniors. The international work assignments are designed to include practical training, cross-cultural exposure and learning, and the acquisition of professional skills.

For more information about all of the programs in the Division of Professional Practice, visit: www.profpractice.gatech.edu.