<p>@MSMUSTANG - I was a co-op while at Marquette and can answer your questions. Most students begin the program after sophomore year and they will alternate school and work semesters. Note that this also implies a likely summer school session in order to graduate in 5 years. You do not pay full-time tuition during your work semesters (although you do register for a co-op course). You are considered a full-time student during your work semesters. Many companies that participate do assist students with locating housing if needed. Students often share arrangements with other students who are on the opposite schedule. Co-op students are paid very well and it is a great way to help pay for school.</p>
<p>I initially rejected the idea of co-oping since it would add a year, plus many of my non-co-op friends would be graduating in 4 years and would be gone my final year. Looking back, I’m grateful that I did co-op. You become friends with other co-ops and actually meet more people. And I was offered a job with my co-op employer after graduation and have been employed by them for over 20 years. There is no way most students can compete with a co-op student during job interviews, provided the co-op had meaningful and successful assignments. In today’s job market, you need every edge possible.</p>
<p>Since I’m an alumnus, I will stress that Marquette has one of the oldest co-op programs in the country and they have contacts across many companies, industries, and regions. Definitely worth considering - plus the new engineering building as Staceyglow mentioned</p>