Northeastern is a world leader in experiential learning, our distinctive educational model.
This year, we celebrate the 115th anniversary of co-op, our flagship experiential program that integrates classroom study with professional work experience for undergraduate and graduate students alike. It sits alongside an ever-expanding and immersive experiential program portfolio that includes research, community service, and global opportunities.
We invite you to see its impact through statistics, stories, and reflections, and to see more ways to support its growth below.
Co-op today
student participation
%
student participation
%
of students receive a job offer from a former co-op employer
Student outcomes
I am so grateful for the opportunity to implement skills outside of the classroom before graduation. I value the amazing connections with attorneys, DEI practitioners, and advocates who help move the needle for marginalized communities.
I value the hands-on experience I’m getting in finance. It allows me to develop professionally and network, which is crucial for success. I am able to foster important skills for the industry.
I value the experience I’m getting by being around my coworkers who are in the position I strive to be in one day. Absorbing information from them, whether through one-on-one conversations or things I hear from them in the office, is incredibly valuable.
Reflections: Stories of Transformational Co-ops
Experience More
Read our stories
From Boston to Barcelona, this Husky got a chance to see how innovators operate around the world through a marketing co-op
Ivanna Pilataxi wants to bring a global perspective back to her home city in Ecuador. Northeastern’s co-op program allowed her the chance to see how businesses operate globally.
Northeastern student went from classroom to cellular molecular biology research co-op
Sumedha Reddy Sudini remembered touring the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology as a teen. So when it came time for her to do a co-op, she knew where she wanted to apply.
Northeastern co-op students work to prevent neglected tropical diseases and birth injuries among women in rural Kenya
Northeastern co-op students Abigail Binkley, left, and Abigail Williams conducted research on health issues among women in Kenya’s Pokot tribe.
Northeastern co-ops team up with Boston Public Schools to help marginalized students thrive
Josiehanna Colon grew up in Boston and went through the schools, while Christly Bright-Agintodan spent part of her childhood in Montana. In these two different places, they found a passion for helping students.
Building a 40-Year Successful Career as a General Electric Mechanical Engineer
Robert Kursmark, E’73, credits his four co-ops, including two at General Dynamics Electric Boat and two at Bolt Beranek and Newman, Inc., with helping him build a solid foundation for a four-decade-long successful career at General Electric Aerospace. Retired, he now works as a consultant for GE and says his co-op experiences gave him “the chance of a lifetime.”
Co-ops Are a Core Part of Alumni’s Successful Career
Winslow Sargeant, E’86, electrical engineering, has had a highly successful career including roles as CEO, venture capitalist, entrepreneur, consultant, NSF program manager, member of the Northeastern University Board of Trustees, and a President Barack Obama appointee. He says his co-ops helped make it happen.
Co-op perspectives
Introducing Co-op Perspectives—a new video series that takes a deep dive into Northeastern University’s renowned experiential learning program, offering unique insights from those who have experienced co-op firsthand.
Episode 1: The Co-op Experience
Episode 2: The Co-op Employer Experience
Episode 3: The Co-op Parent Experience
Upcoming events
Co-op 115th Anniversary Celebration
Arlington Campus
September 10, 2024
View event photos.
Co-op 115th Anniversary Celebration
Silicon Valley Campus
October 10, 2024
View event photos.
Co-op 115th Anniversary Celebration
Miami Campus
October 23, 2024
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Co-op 115th Anniversary Celebration
Boston Campus
November 9, 2024
View event photos.
Powering Preparedness, Professionalism, and Partnerships
While some startup companies, public service agencies, and nonprofits can’t offer salaries, some globally located co-ops are out of reach for students due to travel expenses. Help fund these vital co-op experiences, opening doors to some of the most meaningful roles a student can have.
Employers can tap into a pool of top-notch talent to invigorate their workforce and infuse their office with fresh ideas. These motivated and flexible learners have the mindset, skill, and drive to bring a business, agency, or nonprofit organization to the next level.
Employers can tap into a pool of top-notch talent to invigorate their workforce and infuse their office with fresh ideas. These motivated and flexible learners have the mindset, skill, and drive to bring a business, agency, or nonprofit organization to the next level.