Program Overview

Cooperative Education Programme

The Cooperative Education Programme is delivered in three main phases: preparing for cooperative education, interviews and selection, and placement and evaluation.

Preparing for Cooperative Education

To help students prepare for their co-op placement, a series of employability lectures, workshops, and information sessions are facilitated by the co-op team. These sessions begin in the 2nd semester of the year before placement and cover topics such as:

• Explaining the concept of the Cooperative Education Programme
• Advising on how to present skills on the co-op CV
• Helping students reflect and prepare for the opportunity and challenge of Cooperative Education
• Providing application and deadline details
• Preparing students for their co-op interview
• Advising on employer expectations
• Advising on evaluation of co-op

Co-op CV

Students are required to create a co-op CV, which is an essential part of the co-op application process.

Reflective Assessment

A reflective assessment is also a crucial component of the co-op programme, allowing students to reflect on their experiences and skills.

Code of Practice

A code of practice is in place to ensure that students, employers, and the university work together effectively and efficiently.

Co-op by Course

The co-op programme is tailored to each course, providing students with relevant work experience in their field of study.

Global Cooperative Education Programme

The university also offers a Global Cooperative Education Programme, providing students with the opportunity to gain international work experience.

Placement and Evaluation

The placement and evaluation phase of the co-op programme involves students undertaking a work placement and being evaluated on their performance. This phase includes:

• Faculty visits to provide support and guidance
• Employer evaluations to assess student performance
• Learning outcomes to ensure students meet the programme's objectives
• Co-op evaluation reports to document student progress
• Cooperative Education Awards to recognize outstanding student performance

Students with Disabilities

The university provides support for students with disabilities, ensuring that they have an equal opportunity to participate in the co-op programme.

Mature Students

Mature students are also supported, with the university recognizing their unique needs and experiences.

FAQ

A frequently asked questions section is available to provide students with answers to common queries about the co-op programme.

Competitions

The university hosts competitions to encourage students to develop their skills and showcase their talents.

Placement Providers

The university works with a range of placement providers to offer students a diverse range of work experience opportunities.

Faculty

The faculty plays a crucial role in the co-op programme, providing support and guidance to students and employers.

Employers

Employers are essential partners in the co-op programme, providing students with valuable work experience and feedback.

Customer Charter

The university has a customer charter in place, outlining its commitment to providing excellent service to students, employers, and other stakeholders.

Contact Us

The Cooperative Education and Careers Division is located in the Main Building, and visitors are welcome to attend the university's main reception.

About UL

The University of Limerick is committed to providing students with a world-class education and work experience opportunities.

Useful Links

Useful links are available to provide students with easy access to important information and resources.

Website

The university's website provides a wealth of information on the co-op programme, including details on how to apply, programme structure, and support services.