Grand Valley State University has one of the strongest mandatory engineering Cooperative Education (Co-op) programs in the nation. The cooperative education program is a partnership between the university, student, and an engineering employer, resulting in an experiential learning work experience that is integrated into the student's degree program.

Co-op Standard Sequence: 40 hours per week for alternating semesters

Students typically begin searching in Fall of their sophomore year:

If interested in a Winter Co-op I start for a standard co-op sequence, contact the Co-op Coordinator, Ethan Tanis, [email protected]. If interested in securing a flexible part-time co-op sequence, it is critical to proactively discuss with the prospective employer and Co-op Coordinator, Ethan Tanis, [email protected]. Ethan can assist in the planning necessary for part-time work (6 consecutive semesters, 20 hours per week), while enrolling in part-time coursework; this is referred to as a “Flex” schedule.

Engineering Co-op Students and Employers:

Students seeking assistance in Career Services (resumes, applications, job/co-op searching, etc) should SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT IN HANDSHAKE. All inquiries for Co-op specific approvals and events should go to the Co-op Coordinator:

CO-OP STUDENT RESOURCES

CO-OP EMPLOYER RESOURCES

Ethan Tanis
Co-op Coordinator, Padnos College of Engineering
Phone: (616) 331-6021
Email: [email protected]