Cooperative education is an educational experience that combines classroom studies with paid, productive work experience at a site in a field related to the student’s major.
Each college department sets standards for eligibility to participate in a cooperative education, approve cooperative education sites and determine cooperative education requirements (papers, journals, etc.). Grading cooperative education courses follows the College’s grading system. Cooperative education is required for the GM ASEP, Toyota/Lexus (T-TEN), Culinary Arts, Hotel and Restaurant Operations and Pastry Arts programs. Faculty monitors each placement to ensure that it meets academic requirements and that the work experience is relevant to the student's area of study. Approval of the Department Chair and Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs is required for all other programs.
While LRCC makes every effort to place each eligible student, there is no guarantee placement will occur. Students should see their academic advisor for specific details about their placement. The College charges tuition and fees for cooperative education experiences on a per-credit basis.
The student’s cooperative education academic advisor assists students in preparation for cooperative education, usually two to four weeks prior to the session.
LRCC retains its right to remove a student from a position if the situation warrants doing so. Obviously, as with most work situations, the employer can terminate the relationship resulting in loss of credit, if the employer has just cause and has documented the situation. Each department's criteria pertaining to cooperative education may differ. The student should consult with his/her advisor for additional information.