Frequently Asked Questions about Cooperative Education, Internships

1. What is Cooperative Education (Co-op)?

2. Who can enroll in Co-op?

3. Do I earn credits and get paid too?

4. Is Co-op a class?

5. What kinds of internships are available?

6. Can I use my own job and get Co-op credit?

7. Can international students enroll in Co-op?

8. Where can I find more information about Co-op?

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1. What is Cooperative Education (Co-op)?
It is a special academic program that places students in field experiences related to their majors or for career exploration. Co-op on your resume or job application signals an employer that you have combined education and work experience and have more to offer than the average job-seeker.

2. Who can enroll in Co-op?
It is open to ALL majors. Students majoring in Hospitality and Tourism (HOST), Business Technology (BUSN), Health Unit Coordinator (HUC), Electronic & Computer Engineering Technology (ECET), and Administration of Justice (AJ) are required to do one or more internships.

3. Do I earn credits and get paid too?
Yes, you register for the appropriate Co-op course and may earn from 1-3 credits per semester depending on the number of hours you work. Each credit requires a minimum of 75 work hours. Most internships are paid.

4. Is Co-op a class?
Yes, interns attend a weekly seminar and produce a career portfolio to use when seeking employment or advancement or continuing their education.

5. What kinds of internships are available?
Many different kinds such as in hotel resorts; the County of Maui; Maui Coastal Land Trust; Center for Adaptive Optics Akamai summer program; Alu Like; sustainable technologies; technology; Maui Arts and Cultural Center; Haleakala National Park; education; major businesses. Or we can help you develop a special internship.

6. Can I use my own job and get Co-op credit?
Yes, with approval from the Co-op instructor or your program major instructor. Check with them first!

7. Can international students enroll in Co-op?
Yes, some are required to because of their majors. Others can check to see if they are eligible. It is a complicated process so we advise F-1 visa students to check with Co-op early.

8. Where can I find more information about Co-op?
Visit University of Hawaii Maui College, Ka Lama 207, the Cooperative Education, Internships & Workforce Readiness Center. Attend an information session. Call (808) 984-3318 and check out other sections of this website.