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How to hire a co-op student

What is Cooperative Education?

Cooperative Education allows students to connect classroom learning with the world of work by expanding learning experiences through paid employment which relate to their major field or study or career focus. Students are supervised by a professional at work and advised by faculty at WSU. As an academic program students enroll in Co-op, pay tutition and receive college credit for their Co-op work experience. Co-op positions typically last for more than one semester and include in-state or out-of-state opportunities.

What is an internship?

Internships relate to a students major field of study or career focus. They can either be paid or un-paid positions. Internships are pre-defined in length by the employer, often lasting only one semester or for the summer. Students enroll, pay tuition and receive college credit for their internship. Students are supervised by a professional at work and advised by faculty at WSU. Placements include either in-state or out-of-state opportunities.

Steps to hiring a Co-op education/internship student

Step 1: Register, List a position and hire a WSU co-op/Internship student

  • Log on to: www.myinterfase.com/wichita_coop/employer

Step 2: Training and development

  • Provide work assignments that connect job description to student's academic program and education level

Step 3: Evaluation

  • Meet with WSU coordinator mid semester and complete an Employer Evaluation

Cooperative Education Policies

Enrollment

  • Students must enroll in a co-op course and fulfill all academic requirements each semester she/he is employed in a co-op position.

Compensation

  • Co-op students should be paid at the same rate as other entry-level employees who do the same work. Other benefits must be offered, but are not required.

Hours/Semester

  • Co-op students work a minimum of 15 hours per week; the average is 20-25 hours per week. Students usually work more hours during the summer.

For more information, contact:
Cooperative Education & Work-Based Learning
223 Grace Wilkie Hall
Office Phone: 316.978.3688
Office Hours: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday-Friday