Internships and Co-ops | College of Engineering and Computing

The College of Engineering and Computing (CEC) encourages all students to gain practical real-world experience. By integrating these professional opportunities into your academic journey, you bridge the gap between classroom theory and industry practice.

Find Opportunities

Choose Your Path

While both co-ops and internships provide valuable professional experience, there are key differences between the two:

Internships

Internships are usually short-term work experiences lasting about three months, most often during the summer. They involve a single work assignment or role and may offer 0–6 academic credits. The program itself does not require a minimum GPA or number of completed credits, though individual employers may have their own requirements. Internships are well suited for students who want to explore potential career paths or job roles.

Further details and expectations of students, employers, and University faculty/staff are given in the Miami University Internship Policy.

Internship Application and Registration Process

Apply: Find opportunities on Handshake
Earn academic credit: Register your internship via Handshake under CPB 340, CSE 340, ECE 340, or MME 340.

Co-ops

Co-ops are selective, multi-term programs where students alternate between semesters of full-time work and full-time study. They require more planning and commitment than internships, including coordination with an academic advisor to stay on track for graduation. Participants earn 0.5 credit per term, and eligibility requires at least a 2.0 GPA and 24 Miami credit hours (12 for transfer students), though many employers prefer candidates with a 3.0+ GPA and strong academic performance. Co-ops are ideal for students seeking in-depth industry experience, enhanced professional skills, stronger resumes, and potential full-time employment opportunities after graduation.

Further details and expectations of students, employers, and University faculty/staff are given in the Miami University Co-Op Policy.

Co-op Application and Registration Process

Apply: Attend an information session (held each spring semester) and apply via the link provided. Contact Nick Stanford with questions on the co-op program and application process.
Take UNV 111: Take the co-op preparation course in the fall semester prior to your first work experience.
Earn academic credit: Register your co-op via Handshake under CEC 340C.

Real Experience. Real Impact. Real Success.

No. 10

Best schools for internships (public schools) | Princeton Review, 2025

No. 6

Public university in the U.S. for long-term career success | LinkedIn Best Colleges 2025

Student Resources

Miami University offers a variety of resources to support students throughout the internship and co-op process, from career preparation to housing and financial aid guidance.

Center for Career Exploration and Success (CCES)

Your primary resource for resume reviews, mock interviews, and finding openings. Visit the CCES Website.

Financial Aid and One Stop

If you have questions about how a co-op or internship affects your scholarship or financial aid, contact the One Stop.

Housing

For assistance with on-campus housing contracts, visit the Campus Services Center.

International Students

International students wishing to pursue internships or co-ops in the United States should consult the guidelines for Curricular Practical Training and Miami’s International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) early in your search.

The Entrepreneurial Mindset (KEEN)

As a member of the Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network (KEEN), Miami CEC encourages students to apply the "3 Cs" during their work experiences: Curiosity, Connections, and Creating Value. Engaging with these principles helps you identify opportunities beyond your basic job description. Ask your advisor about earning KEEN Digital Badges to highlight these skills to future employers.

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