Internship & Co-Op Frequently Asked Questions
Thinking about internships or co-ops? WELCOME - you have come to the right place for information.
- Who can participate in internships and co-ops?
- What are the benefits of co-oping or interning?
- Is prior experience necessary?
- Are co-ops and internships paid or unpaid?
- Are co-ops/internships full-time or part-time?
- Can I get academic credit for co-ops or internships?
- When are internships offered?
- When should I start looking for internships?
- Where can I find a listing of available internships/co-ops at CNU?
- How do I apply for an internship or co-op?
- Where can I go for more information?
1. Who can participate in internships and co-ops?
Any student at CNU may search for an internship or co-op experience and we strongly encourage you to do so! Some employers place restrictions on class level and while others do not.
2. What are the benefits of co-oping or interning?
One of the most important things employers look for when hiring graduating students is whether or not they have experience relating to your career field before graduation. Internships and co-ops allow you to gain this experience and help you get started in a career of your choice. The skills, knowledge and maturity you gain through exposure in a real work setting amplify the academic knowledge you are acquiring. Getting hands-on experience is one of the best ways to investigate whether or not a career area is appropriate for you.
3. Is prior experience necessary?
Unlike a job, internships require little or no prior experience.
4. Are co-ops and internships paid or unpaid?
Co-ops are paid employment. Internships can be either; depending on the employer's preference. Not-for-profit organizations may sponsor interns without compensation, according the U. S. Department of Labor, Fair Labor Standards Act.
5. Are co-ops/internships full-time or part-time?
Internships are part-time. Co-ops can be parallel or sequential (full-time or part-time), and would be dependent upon the written co-op agreement in place between the employer and CNU. Parallel co-ops allow students to work while attending classes and are limited to twenty (20) hours per week. Sequential co-ops are alternate semesters of full-time work at the employer with semesters of coursework at CNU.
6. Can I get academic credit for co-ops or internships?
Yes, but all eligibility requirements for credit must be determined by the academic department of your major prior to beginning the co-op or internship.
7. When are internships offered?
Internships are offered throughout the year. Internships may be for fall or spring semesters or during the summer.
8. When should I start looking for internships?
For summer, start in the fall and keep looking through spring. Take advantage of school breaks (Thanksgiving, winter and spring breaks) to network and make contacts.
9. Where can I find a listing of available internships/co-ops at CNU?
Opportunities may be viewed by logging onto ecampusrecruiter.com/cnu.
10. How do I apply for a co-op/internship?
Items needed for application will vary depending on the employer. Most employers will require a resume, letter of application and possibly academic transcripts, (official or unofficial). If you do not have a resume or need to brush up on your interviewing skills, consider an appointment in the Office of Career Development.
11. Where can I go for more information?
To schedule an individual appointment, contact the Assistant Director for Experiential Learning by calling 757.594.8887.
More ways to learn about internships & co-ops:
- Explore company web sites to learn about internships/co-ops - these are usually under "recruitment" or "employment" headings.
- Talk with others who are actively involved in work that is of interest to you. This is one of the best ways to test your interests in a particular field. Ask if their employer has internships/co-ops available.
- Ask faculty members within your academic department.
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