Cooperative Education
Cooperative education at WMU is an optional program that integrates classroom study and practical work experience. A student's co-op employment experience is most often related to their career interests. Consequently, their overall education is enriched, as is their value as future employees.
We recognize the need for an active alliance with business, industry and higher education. By promoting a cooperative education experience, we jointly provide opportunities for companies to utilize the talents of our students while our students enjoy the value of the work experience. |
Fred Sitkins
Director of Cooperative Education
(269) 276-3375
Office: E-116
|
Options in Cooperative Education
Alternating Co-Op
Students alternate semesters of school and work. A minimum of three semesters taken is required.
Internship
A student is employed on either a part-time or full-time basis during the summer semesters. Internships may also be available during the Fall and Spring semesters.
Concurrent Co-Op
Students are employed by a West Michigan area company on a part-time basis while attending classes during the academic year. In most cases, the student is employed on a full time basis during the summer semester.
For Students
Benefits 
- Earn while you learn
- Start your career early
- Head start on full-time employment
- Build your resume with job pertinent experience
- Develop meaningful job-related skills
- Confirm that the curriculum and career you have chosen is the right one for you
Requirements
- Must be pursuing a major degree in the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences
- Must have a minimum overall GPA of 2.5
- Must have completed a minimum of 30 credit hours
What Must You Do?
- Make an appointment with the co-op advisor to discuss eligibility and to pick up registration and information forms
- Prepare a resume and have a career services representative assist you with the style, format and accuracy
- Register at Bronco Jobs
- Schedule an appointment with your academic advisor and the co-op directory for approval of the co-op experience
For Employers
Benefits
- It's cost effective
- Assess student employees before you commit to a full-time offer
- Enthusiastic eager-to-learn team players
- No obligation for future employment
What Must You Do?
- Designate a contact person to work with the director of cooperative education
- Register the position on Bronco Jobs
- Provide a written job description
- Provide meaningful, responsible work assignments
- Pay an appropriate wage
- complete a performance review of each student in time to be recorded as academic credit
For More Information Contact Us
Mr. Fred Sitkins
Director of Cooperative Education
E-mail: fred.sitkins@wmich.edu
Main Phone: (269) 276-3261
Office Phone: (269) 276-3375
Fax: (269) 276-3259
Office: E-116

Fred Sitkins
Director of Cooperative Education
Main Phone:
(269) 276-3261
Office Phone:
(269) 276-3375
Fax:
(269) 276-3259
Office: E-116
Learn more about employment at Career Services