Real-world experience plays a major role in shaping your career—and in the U.S., two common ways to get it are through internships and cooperative education programs (co-ops). While both provide hands-on learning and valuable networking opportunities, they differ in structure, time commitment, and long-term impact. This guide helps you understand how internships and co-ops work, their key differences, and how to choose the option that aligns with your goals.
What Is an Internship?
An internship is a short-term work experience that gives you a glimpse into a potential career path while you’re still in school. It’s an opportunity to apply what you’re learning in the classroom to real-world situations.
Internships are available to both undergraduate and graduate students and typically last from a few weeks to a few months. Some are full-time during school breaks, while others are part-time during the academic year. Internships may be paid or unpaid, and many offer academic credit.
The main goal of an internship is to explore a career field, build foundational skills, and make professional connections. It’s especially useful for students who are undecided on their major or curious about multiple industries.
What Is a Co-op?
A co-op, short for cooperative education, is a structured program that combines full-time, paid work experience with your academic schedule. Co-ops are typically longer than internships, sometimes lasting several semesters, and are directly tied to your area of study.
In a co-op, you alternate between terms in the classroom and full-time employment. You’re treated more like an employee than a student—working on real projects, gaining deep industry experience, and sometimes even rotating through different departments.
Co-ops are ideal for students who already know the field they want to enter and are looking to build a strong, hands-on foundation in that industry.
Key Differences Between Internships and Co-ops
Duration and Time Commitment
Internships are usually short-term (6 weeks to 4 months) and often part-time.
Co-ops are longer, more intensive, and usually full-time during work semesters.
Pay and Academic Credit
Many internships are unpaid, though some offer a stipend or hourly wage.
Co-ops are typically paid and may count toward degree requirements, depending on your university.
Flexibility
Internships can often be completed while taking classes.
Co-ops usually require you to pause your academic coursework during the work term.
Depth of Experience
Internships offer a broad overview of a field or position.
Co-ops allow for deeper engagement, often giving students long-term projects and responsibilities.
Choosing What’s Right for You
When deciding between an internship or co-op, consider your academic plans, financial needs, and career goals.
If you’re still exploring majors or industries, internships offer the flexibility to try different roles.
If you’ve committed to a specific career path, a co-op provides in-depth training and a chance to stand out to future employers.
If you need income while studying, a paid co-op might be more sustainable than an unpaid internship.
If you want to keep up your full academic schedule while working, a part-time internship may be the better fit.
Where to Find Opportunities
Most U.S. universities have career services or experiential learning offices dedicated to helping students find internships and co-ops. These offices often maintain databases of available positions, offer resume workshops, and connect students with employer partners.
For international students, it’s important to check in with the university’s global services or international office to ensure you understand visa requirements and eligibility for paid work experiences.
Co-ops at Northeastern University: A Model Example
Northeastern University is well known for its co-op program, which has become a central part of its academic experience. With over 3,000 employer partners and thousands of students placed each year, Northeastern offers one of the most expansive co-op networks in the U.S.
Students alternate semesters between classroom learning and full-time work, giving them a competitive edge when entering the job market. In fact, a large number of Northeastern students receive job offers from their co-op employers after graduation.
Northeastern also offers international students access to its co-op program, with support from the Office of Global Services to navigate paperwork, visas, and placements.