Co-ops and Internships
Start Your Career Early
Co-operative education & internships, also known as field experience, will give you the chance to work as an ”apprentice” in your field before you graduate, and get amazing real world experience. With this type of experiential education, you will learn new skills, test academic theories, and explore professional goals while making valuable contributions to the workplace and to your community. There is virtually no better way to prepare for your career. You'll work with the staff at Career Services to identify positions that fit your qualifications, develop a resume, apply for jobs, and prepare for interviews. You can work part-time or full-time, during the academic year or during breaks, and work near UMass Amherst or in another part of the country. Some positions are salaried, some offer stipends or housing, and others are volunteer opportunities.
Even though most students participate in these programs later in their time at UMass Amherst, it doesn't hurt to start thinking about field experience during your first year so that you can prepare. You can read more at the Career Services website.
What’s the difference between a co-op and an internship?
Co-ops:
· Salaried
· Pre-professional
· Directly related to your field of study
· Summer, six months, eight months, or a combination
· You’re considered a full-time student while at placement
Internships:
· Associated with academic credits (paid for through your tuition)
· Faculty sponsor is required
· Cover letters required for each posting
· Occasionally salaried
· Part-time or full-time
· Summer, Semester or January
