isnwta

what exactly is a co-op and how is it different from an internship??

DontPanic1

Where I work, internships are in the summer between school years, and co-ops are during a spring or fall semester. The assignments, pay, policies, etc. are the same either way. Often co-ops will alternate work and school semesters, taking longer to graduate but earning money and experience in exchange.

Christian2

Co-op is a structured program within a school's curriculum and is usually well defined. You alternate schooling and working during your time in the program. Normally you attend school for two semesters and then work one semester. The working is an integral part as much as the academic. The school normally works with companies for student placement. Internship on the other hand is usually not part of an academic program. You either find those on your own or through your school's career center. Both will give you practical training and experience.