On the job, Co-Ops learn first hand about their potential career by working directly with professionals in their field. In the classroom, Co-Ops study the theory that makes their work meaningful. This merging of work and study results in a top quality education for the top quality person. Cooperative Education provides a valuable opportunity for students, employers, and the university to work together to benefit one another. For almost a half century, Purdue has been among the largest in undergraduate engineering enrollment in America.
Engineers apply the principles of science to solve practical problems for the benefit of society.
Cooperative Education in the Schools of Engineering Engineering is a profession for practical people interested in taking the raw materials of science and mathematics and putting them to work to solve real-life problems. The same is true for Purdue's Cooperative Education Program in Engineering. It helps students integrate theory and practice, confirm career choices, investigate potential job opportunities, and become better graduates. At the same time Co-Ops can earn a substantial portion of their college expenses. Formally initiated in 1954, the Co-Op Program serves 1,000 students and 400 employers from private industry and government agencies.