Co-op Program Frequently Asked Questions

How and when do I apply?

What criteria are used for acceptance into the program?

When will I know that I have been accepted?

When will the program start and end?

What criteria are used for placement at the three participating hospitals?

Will I be paid or have benefits working as a co-op student?

What are the advantages of being a co-op student?

What is the probability of getting employment at my co-op sites?

How many students will be accepted into the program?

How and when do I apply?
Applications are online and will be accepted January 1 through March 1 of the student's junior year of the BSN program at the UC College of Nursing.

What criteria are used for acceptance into the program?
There are three areas in which students must excel; students must have a minimum of 3.0 GPA, demonstrate professionalism and a strong work ethic. We also require two letters of recommendation from clinical faculty with whom they have worked.

When will I know that I have been accepted?
Students will be notified of acceptance into the program on or before March 31 of the student's junior year.

When will the program start and end?
The program will begin on the first Friday of June following final exams in the student's junior year and will continue until graduation the following June.

What criteria are used for placement at the three participating hospitals?
Determining where you will be placed depends on several factors but your preference of hospitals will be the first consideration.

Will I be paid or have benefits working as a co-op student?
If you are accepted, you will be placed in one of the hospitals. You will be an employee of that hospital and paid an hourly rate. Benefits are not provided to the co-op students.

What are the advantages of being a co-op student?
There are many advantages to participating in the co-op. Overwhelmingly, there are areas that previous students state they excel in by participating in the program: increased confidence and critical thinking skills. They also learn teamwork, time management, delegation and how to prioritize their work.   

What is the probability of getting employment at my co-op sites?
The probability is high! By being in the program and working at your assigned hospital permits you to become familiar with the hospital’s system and allows you to network in different areas within the facility. 

How many students will be accepted into the program?
It is difficult to give this number due to the growth of the program each year. The number of applicants also depends on the number of positions that each hospital allots for this program.