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Chaifetz School of Business Co-op3 SM

Co-op3 SM is the cooperative education program at the Chaifetz School of Business at Saint Louis University (SLU). This exciting developmental and experiential learning opportunity allows students to gain real-world work experience through six-month, full-time, paid work assignments related to business while simultaneously earning substantial income that can help defray the cost of university.

Benefits of Participating in a Co-op Experience

  • Hands-on Experience: Gain valuable, real-world knowledge that enhances classroom learning.
  • Networking: Build professional relationships with industry leaders, colleagues, and mentors.
  • Career Preparation: Develop skills that will make you a more competitive candidate when seeking full-time employment after graduation.
  • Financial Benefits: Earn a competitive wage while gaining career experience, allowing you to offset tuition costs and save for future educational expenses.

Whether you are interested in business, marketing, finance, accounting, technology, or management, the Co-op program is a great way to immerse yourself in your chosen industry and start building your professional career.

Co-op3 ℠ Eligibility Requirements

To apply for Co-op3 ℠, you must meet eligibility requirements and follow the application process.

  • Minimum GPA: You must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 to apply for the Co-op3 ℠ program. This requirement ensures that students are academically prepared for both the Co-op experience and their studies.
  • Residency Requirement: You must have completed at least one full year of residency on campus at SLU before applying. This helps ensure that students have adapted to university life and have developed the time-management skills needed for the Co-op3 ℠ program.
  • Sophomore Status: You must be at least of sophomore standing at the time of applying with a minimum of 60 completed overall credit hours. This requirement ensures that students are sufficiently advanced in their studies to fully benefit from the Co-op experience.
  • Business Common Body of Knowledge: A minimum of 18 completed credit hours of Business Common Body of Knowledge coursework, including Microsoft Excel Level 1 Certification.
  • Student Responsibilities Agreement: As part of the application process, you must sign a Student Responsibilities Agreement. This agreement outlines your commitments, including professionalism, conduct, and other responsibilities throughout the Co-op3 SM program.

In addition to the eligibility criteria, successful candidates will display:

  • Strong communication skills
  • Demonstrated interest in gaining professional experience
  • Problem-solving skills and creative thinking
  • A proactive attitude and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team
  • Receptiveness to formative feedback
  • Ability to adapt to differing situations and changing priorities
  • High level of personal integrity

How to Apply for Co-op3 ℠

The application process is straightforward, much of which is part of the work product of BIZ 3000.

  • Step 1: Complete the Co-op Application form, which is available from a Chaifetz Career Education team member.
  • Step 2: Include a resume highlighting your academic achievements, prior work experience, and relevant extracurricular activities.
  • Step 3: Submit a letter of recommendation from a Chaifetz faculty member indicating that they believe that your levels of professionalism and motivation are sufficient to represent the Chaifetz School of Business with a potential employer.
  • Step 4: Submit a personal statement that includes your objectives for what you hope to achieve with their co-op experience.

The Chaifetz Co-op3 ℠ Committee, comprised of the Chaifetz Career Education Team, associate dean, several faculty members will review these application materials.

Once you are accepted into the Co-op program, you will gain access to the Co-op3 SM Handshake Portal, SLU’s career services platform. Handshake is designed to connect you with potential employers and help you find Co-op positions in your field.