Experiential Education

An educational system that allows students to combine academic studies and practical work experience in their field of study to earn credit toward a degree. Co-op education programs vary widely in how and when you apply to them, how the university implements them and how you obtain a practical work placement once enrolled.

On OUInfo, the following co-op definitions are used:

• Not available: Co-op is not offered with this program.
   
• Co-op program: This program is co-op only – you must complete a co-op work placement to achieve the degree.
   
• Co-op option available with this program: When you apply to this program, you may choose whether you want to complete a co-op work placement.
   
• Co-op available with a different program code: The university offers co-op with this program, but you will need to apply using a different code. Return to the university’s list of programs and find the specific co-op program code.
   
• Co-op or internship application available at the university after registration: To complete a co-op work placement with this program, you must apply to the co-op option after you are registered in this program at the university.


• Co-op available by application after first year of studies: You must apply for the co-op option after your first year of studies in this program at the university.


• Co-op available by major: Co-op is only available with certain subjects of major interest within this program. Visit the university’s website or contact the university directly to obtain further information about which subjects have a co-op component.
   
• Practicum or internship option available: You may choose whether to complete a practicum or internship placement when you enroll in this program.
   
• Co-op or internship option available: You may choose whether you want to complete a co-op or an internship placement when you enroll in this program.
   
• Clinical placement: This program includes hands-on work or research experience outside of the classroom in a clinical setting.
   
• Field placement: This program includes hands-on work or research experience outside of the classroom in a location related to the field of study.
   
• Entrepreneurship: This program offers the opportunity to start a business as part of your course work. 
   
• Faculty research opportunity: This program offers the opportunity to engage in research with faculty.
   
• Class-based experiential education: This program includes direct, hands-on experience that is relevant to the field of study and takes place in the classroom.
   
• Embedded community engagement/volunteerism/partnership: This program may offer learning opportunities outside of the classroom and/or in the community.