Co-Ops vs. Internships
What’s the difference between co-ops and internships?
Generally speaking, cooperative education programs (co-ops) are highly structured work experiences overseen by your college or university. You’ll earn credit for your co-op, and the program often lasts up to a year or more.
The term “internship” applies to a much broader set of experiences. Internships vary in length of time but are often for a summer or semester. You may or may not earn college credit for your internship. Your college or university may help you secure an internship, or you may find one entirely on your own.
Co-Ops and Internships at Kogod
The Kogod School of Business is the first among its business school competitors to enter the market with a co-op program in the DC metro region. Participants complete a six- to twelve-month intensive internship that’s intended to turn into full-time employment after graduation. Kogod co-ops are internships for credit and are counted toward a student's academic degree. We partner closely with employers in various industries who have cross-functional business needs, facilitate the interview process, and provide support throughout.
Internships for Kogod students vary in duration and industry. Our Office of Career Engagement supports students in their search, application, and interview process. Our students find internships through Handshake, internship fairs, recommendations from their professors, and more.
Which is right for me?
Ultimately, maybe both! Whether you should consider an internship or co-op depends on:
- How far along you are in your business school journey
- The level of experience you already have
- How confident you are about your post-Kogod career path
You should consider an internship if…
- You’re earlier in your business school journey
- You’re not sure what you want to do and you’d like to try different industries and roles within the world of business
- You don’t have much experience on your résumé yet, and you’d like to build up your real-world skills
You should consider a co-op if…
- You’re about to begin your last year of school
- You have a strong résumé that shows employers you’re ready for real-world work
- You know what type of job you want post-Kogod or what kind of company you want to work for
- You feel comfortable making a long-term commitment to an organization
You may want to do an internship or two early in your business school career to build your résumé and narrow your career path. Our pro bono consulting projects and other experiential learning programs are also great hands-on opportunities. After you’ve had those experiences, you may be ready to commit to a co-op and set yourself up for immediate post-Kogod success.
Guide to Business School Internships
More questions about doing an internship in business school? We've got you covered.
