Co-op is the defining program at Northeastern University. It is what differentiates us from all other universities in America, and Northeastern has successfully executed the Co-op model for 100 years. In the accounting group, Co-op’s centennial got us thinking about the next 100 years. Accounting Co-op coordinators, Charlie Bognanni and Kathy Tanner, offered their insights into Co-op in the 21st Century.
4 Year Program or 5 Year Program
There is a fair amount of discussion about the four year co-op model since President Aoun discussed it in the Fall of 2009. Charlie Bognanni was excited to talk about the four year program, something that has existed for years. “The reality of the five year versus the four year option is that both have always been available to every student.” The four year program reduces the number of co-ops from three to two and concentrates courses during the semesters and during the summer. “The four year option is very intense for students. If they come to Northeastern with a number of course credits from advanced placement tests, it is much easier.” Students in the four year option need to overload courses in the Fall and Spring and take courses all summer long, unless they bring in AP credits. “There really is no break for them in the four year program. Many start in the four year and soon move to the five year program. It becomes a quality of life decision.”
Working, School or Both
The other change Kathy discussed was the trend of the University becoming more flexible to meet the demands of students. “They want to do co-op, but they also want to go overseas, be involved in the community, and/or take courses either on campus or online.” As more students become comfortable with online learning, and the university increases its offerings (e.g., online MSA and MST), students will have more options for when and how they study. Students want this level of flexibility. “It is not a one size fits all model anymore.”
The Next 100 Years
In the near term, Charlie and Kathy are always looking for new opportunities for our Accounting Students. “We want to expand the number of opportunities available to our students. The typical student experience in public accounting will continue to exist, but adding co-op opportunities in growing areas of the economy, such as the energy sector, biotech and healthcare remains a priority. “I don’t know what the next 100 years will be like, but we would still love to be around helping students achieve their dreams for as long as we can.”
If you are interested in becoming a co-op employer or would like more information about the program, call Charlie Bognanni or Kathy Tanner at (617) 373-3782.