Frequently Asked Questions

Co-op

For Students

Is co-op an option for all majors?

No. Co-op is available to students in the Business, Health Careers, Technology, and Graphic Design programs. Co-op is required for students enrolled in the following programs:

  • Administration and Information Management
  • Architecture/Construction Technology
  • Electrical Technology
  • Hospitality Studies

The opportunity to participate in co-op is dependent on the availability of appropriate jobs in business and industry. Students must also meet eligibility requirements.

Is the co-op job a paid experience?

Yes. Off-campus salaries are set by the employer. The average salary for off-campus positions is currently $11.62 per hour. On-campus positions pay $7.70 per hour.

Is academic credit awarded?

Yes. Students register and pay for 1 - 3 academic credits each semester on the job, depending on their major. Students receive a letter grade for their work experience.

Is a job guaranteed?

No. Each job has qualifiers as dictated by the employer. As with any job, each position involves the interview process. The opportunity to participate in co-op is dependent on the availability of appropriate jobs in business and industry and employer selection.

How long can I keep the co-op job?

There is a mutual agreement by the student and the employer that the job will last for a full semester. At the end of the semester, a decision will be made about continued employment. Many co-op students stay on their job for multiple semesters. On average, over 80% of the off-campus employers offer permanent positions to the student after graduation.

How long do I have to work to receive academic credit?

In most instances, the student must work a full 15 weeks to receive academic credit.

For Employers

Why should I hire a co-op student?

Large and small companies, as well as public sector and nonprofit organizations, have found co-op to be a cost effective way to recruit temporary or permanent employees.

What qualifications will the students have?

Students will have completed at least 50% of their required courses. Employers can require the completion of specific courses and a minimum grade point average. Co-op students bring state of the art technical knowledge to their work assignments. They are eager to learn and enthusiastic.

Who pays the student?

The employer determines the salary and pays the student. Benefits, if any, are also determined by the employer.

Who determines the work schedule?

Students are available year round for full or part-time positions. They can be hired for short term or multiple semester assignments. The employer determines the work schedule which is mutually agreed upon at the time of hire. Students can complete their academic studies through day or evening classes.

Do co-op students stay with the employer after graduation?

Oftentimes, co-op students are hired by the employer upon graduation. Co-op students are a natural employment base. There is, however, no hiring commitment on the part of the employer.

What if I have other questions?

Please contact the Cooperative Education Office:
Nancy Stupsker
Cooperative Education Specialist
Henry Ford Community College
5101 Evergreen
Dearborn, MI 48128

Phone: 313-845-6359
Fax: 313-845-9899
Email: stupsker@hfcc.edu

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