At the College of Engineering & Applied Science, experiential learning, a critical UWM 2030 initiative, is essential to preparing our students for careers in engineering and computer science. By participating in a Co-op or Internship, students gain real world experience by applying the skills and concepts they have learned in the classroom within a business environment. Both co-ops and internships are paid experiences that our students can use to help fund their college education.

Co-op

A co-op involves a commitment of at least three terms, with at least one occurring during the Fall or Spring semester. Students participating in a co-op are also eligible to receive one credit per term enrolled, which may also help in fulfilling technical electives. Co-op students maintain their full-time student status.

Internship

Internships are typically part time employment opportunities during the academic year and full time during the summer. It’s not unusual for a student to earn over $8,000 during a summer internship.