FAQs

Who is eligible to participate in the CS Co-op Program?

• Full-time, matriculated Rowan University students in good standing at the time of application
• BS in Computer Science or BA in Computing & Informatics majors
• Attained at least 75 total credits prior to their scheduled co-op
• Accumulation of at least 18 credits in CS courses at Rowan University
• Successful completion of Data Structures & Algorithms or Principles of Data Structures
• Preference for Computer Lab Techniques and Software Engineering for some positions
• General minimum GPA of at least 3.0 with some positions having higher requirements
• Fulfillment of a B or higher grade in all CS courses completed
• Maintain Rowan University full-time matriculation status while on co-op
• Return to Rowan after completion of co-op for a minimum of 1 semester

Not necessarily. Undertaking a co-op experience is an excellent career development opportunity, and each student must develop an individual plan of study with their CS academic advisor to ensure a timely graduation.

Do students receive credits for co-op to go towards their degree?

Possibly. Students have the option to recieve academic credits for their co-op experiential learning with a field experience course, if they choose to do so. Otherwise, students could register for a non-academic course to maintain their full-time student matriculation status. However, these non-academic credits would not count towards their degree program.

Can I take additional courses during my co-op?

Co-ops are designed for students to work full-time at one of our co-op industry partners. Students may be eligible to take courses in the Spring and/or Summer semesters, possibly at additional costs. However, students should always consult with their CS academic advisors to determine eligiblity and feasiblity.

When does the co-op start?

Co-op positions are 6-8 months long starting in January-February and may run through June-August.

Do students have to live on-campus during their co-op?

Maybe. Students should review their housing assignments as some contracts are year-long. All students should consult with University Housing as to the best options for their housing assignments if considering a co-op. If students choose to live on-campus, they will be billed student fees and applicable housing costs.

Do students pay tuition/fees during co-op?

Depends. If the student is registered for academic credits, normal Rowan tuition and fees would apply. Otherwise, no tuition costs would be charged for non-academic credits. The student may also incur other costs associated with the co-op, such as travel costs to and from, as well as housing and university fees (if the student chooses to live on-campus). Those students, who choose to live off-campus during their co-op, will have the option to pay university fees to utilize campus resources (such as the Rec Center, Wellness Center, etc.) if they wish.

Can financial aid be applied to tuition while on co-op?

Sometimes. Students must consult with the Office of Financial Aid about their individual eligibility.

Are international students eligible for the CS Co-op Program?

Depends. Students must check with the employer to determine the eligibility requirements of the specific position.