MS Cooperative Program
The MS cooperative (co-op) program is just one of several ways you can customize your optics master’s program. It includes the same requirements as the typical MS program, but also requires two semesters work in the optics industry.
Students begin their co-op in January after their first academic semester, completing two semesters of work before returning to campus the following January to complete the rest of their required coursework.
In order to participate in the work block, you must satisfactorily complete the first academic block. Failure to do so will result in termination from the program. Co-op students fulfill the normal conditions of employment at the various corporations and will be paid wages comparable to those of other employees with similar educational backgrounds and experience.
During the time you’re employed in industry, he or she will be registered for the co-op program and will have all of the normal rights and privileges of a matriculated student, even though he or she is not in residence during that period.
Interviews for the work block are held on campus during the fall semester, usually in October or November. Students are admitted to the MS co-op at the discretion of the Graduate Admissions Committee, and only after the student has been placed with a company.
Students with questions about the co-op program are welcome to contact Professor Nicholas George, ngeorge@troi.cc.rochester.edu.