What is Cooperative Education a/k/a Work-Based Learning?

Cooperative Education bridges education and employment by providing students with practical skills, professional habits, and industry-specific knowledge that extend beyond the classroom.

What is the value of Cooperative Education? Cooperative Education helps students identify their strengths and interests, foster a sense of belonging, and strengthen their occupational identity. Ultimately, it equips them with the skills and mindset needed for career readiness and empowers them to pursue meaningful, fulfilling lives.

Career Development & Identity

• Builds career confidence
• Strengthens occupational identity
• Supports purposeful and informed career choices

Critical Thinking & Decision-Making

• Fosters opportunities to discern career interests
• Encourages student reflection for academic and career decisions

Workforce Readiness & Employability

• Enhances the ability to obtain and maintain employment
• Prepares students for sustained success in the workforce
• Creates a direct pipeline of skilled, career-ready talent aligned with workforce needs
• Connects education seamlessly with real-world career opportunities
• Builds social capital by expanding students’ professional networks and exposure to industry mentors

Cooperative Education is Good for Communities

Stronger Workforce: Cooperative Education programs equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for local jobs, reducing the need for employers to recruit from outside the area and lowering training costs. This leads to a more productive and readily available workforce.

Economic Development: By aligning CTE programs with local industry needs, communities can foster economic growth by attracting businesses and creating job opportunities.

Community Engagement: Cooperative Education programs encourage collaboration between schools, businesses, and community organizations, fostering stronger partnerships and a shared commitment to student success.

Increased Civic Engagement: Students participating in Cooperative Education develop a sense of civic responsibility and contribute to their communities through volunteer work or community-based projects.

Addressing Workforce Gaps: Cooperative Education helps to address specific workforce shortages by providing specialized training in high-demand fields, ensuring a pipeline of qualified workers.