The Experiential Education option is a unique offering in the College of Engineering. It is designed to integrate academic study with practical experience in industry, business, government, or a research organization. During the experience, students suspend full-time coursework and work under the supervision of a qualified professional in an internship or co-op position.
Placements vary in length, typically from 3 to 6 months, but in some cases longer, and coincide with the academic calendar (fall, spring, summer semesters):
- Students will be enrolled in a non-credit course (EK498)
- No leave of absence is required: students doing full-time co-ops or internships in fall or spring semesters maintain their status as full-time students
Part-time positions are occasionally available with Boston-area companies, often as continuations of full-time placements:
- Students will be enrolled in a non-credit course (EK497)
- Students with part-time fall or spring positions must take at least two courses to maintain full-time student status
Students are encouraged to begin the planning process in the fall semester of sophomore year to assure smooth integration with coursework. Participation in Experiential Education may delay a student’s graduation date.
Note: International students must have CPT authorization to participate, and are only permitted to have a placement lasting a single term; 6-month placements are not permitted.
Experiential Education Program Requirements
- Undergraduates must have completed their first year of instruction
- Students must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and be in “Good Standing” with the university
- Students must have at least one semester of instruction to complete after returning from full-time position (Seniors in their final semester are not eligible for full-time experiential education)
- Students must have the approval of their Faculty Academic Advisor and CDO Career Advisor