Purdue University has been recognized for its outstanding co-op and internship opportunities, ranking No. 3 among public institutions and No. 6 overall for 2025, as reported by U.S. News & World Report. This recognition highlights Purdue’s long-standing commitment to providing its students with rich, practical work experiences that enhance their career prospects after graduation.
Purdue’s Co-op and Internship Programs
Purdue’s co-op and internship programs have facilitated more than 2,500 work sessions during the 2022-2023 academic year. This initiative allows students to gain valuable experience while studying, giving them a competitive edge in the job market.
Professional Experience Opportunities
- Students can apply for co-ops and internships through Purdue’s Office of Professional Practice.
- Work experiences typically last between three to 12 months.
- Participants can accumulate up to 22 months of work experience before graduation.
These programs engage more than 7,500 students, connecting them with around 500 active employers. Participants benefit from both academic credits and financial opportunities while gaining essential skills and building professional networks.
Flexible Co-op Structures
Purdue offers several co-op formats tailored to fit the diverse needs of its students:
| Co-op Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Industry Co-op | Three sessions with one employer or two sessions with one employer and a third with another. |
| Extended Industry Co-op | Five sessions with one employer. |
| Learning while Working | Three sessions over a year or four semesters part-time with two summers full-time. |
| Graduate Co-op | Two to three sessions with the same employer after the first semester of graduate studies. |
Global Opportunities
Purdue’s Global Engineering Alliance for Research & Education program enables students to pursue internships abroad in 19 countries. This global exposure further enriches their educational experience.
Recent Achievements
- Two exceptional students were honored in 2024:
- Thendral Kamal – Co-op Student of the Year from the Aeronautics and Astronautics department.
- Jason Packard – Intern of the Year from the Chemical Engineering department.
Purdue’s focus on practical education and strategic partnerships makes it a leader in co-op and internship opportunities. With continuous enhancements to its programs, Purdue ensures that its students are well-prepared to enter the workforce, equipped with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience.
Student Experiences
Students like Anika Bhoopalam and Adam Jaynes exemplify the benefits of engaging in these programs. Bhoopalam’s focus on semiconductor manufacturing was solidified through internships with SkyWater Technology and ASML in the Netherlands. Meanwhile, Jaynes has secured multiple internships in finance, enhancing his career trajectory in investment services.
Impact on Career Development
Purdue’s internship initiatives not only foster practical skills but also build robust networks for students. As OPP director Phillip Dunston notes, the focus is on facilitating experiential education that aligns with industry expectations.
With a commitment to enhancing its internship offerings, Purdue University positions itself as an exemplary model for other institutions aiming to provide meaningful career-enhancing experiences to their students.
