Explore careers, earn money, and gain experience through the KU Co-operative program.
As a KU Co-op student, you’ll typically work full-time and be integrated into the organization’s team, gaining real workplace experience.
Large number of employers
What you will gain from KU co-op program:
Explore careers
Khalifa University’s Co-op program is an amazing opportunity to learn to successfully interview for jobs, test drive up to six careers, graduate with up to one year of valuable industrial experience and make money!
About the Program
Program Structure & Timeline
Participating Programs
Student Engagement & Application
Industry Partners
Introduction & Vision
The KU Co-op Program aims to integrate practical work experience into our students’ academic careers, fostering early industry engagement and skills development. Starting in 2025-26, students will participate in two paid work-terms of 26 weeks each, with opportunities to work locally and internationally, all aligned with their discipline.
Industry Experience, Integrated into Your Degree
The Khalifa University Co-op Program integrates academic study with extended, paid industry experience. Through full-time, supervised work terms, students apply classroom learning to real-world projects, develop professional skills, and prepare for successful careers before graduation.
The Co-op Program launches in Fall 2025, with the first work term beginning in Summer 2026.
What is the Khalifa University Co-op Program?
The Khalifa University Co-op Program is an academically integrated experience that allows students to complete up to two full-time, paid work terms as part of their degree.
Each Co-op work term:
Students work full-time during the Co-op term and are not enrolled in academic courses during that period.
Why Choose Co-op at Khalifa University?
Key Benefits
Career-Ready Experience
Gain extended, hands-on industry experience by working on meaningful projects in professional environments.
Skill and Professional Development
Develop communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and workplace skills through sustained industry engagement.
Career Clarity and Employability
Explore industries and career paths before graduation and strengthen your resume with relevant experience.
How Co-op Fits into Your Degree
The Khalifa University Co-op Program is designed to complement your academic journey while providing substantial industry exposure.
Academic Credit
Co-op 1
Co-op 2 (Optional)
| Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4 | Year 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Fall 2023 Study |
Fall 2024 Study |
Fall 2025 Study |
Fall 2026 Co-op Term 1 |
Fall 2027 Study |
|
Spring 2024 Study |
Spring 2025 Study |
Spring 2026 Study |
Spring 2027 Study |
Spring 2028 Co-op Term 2 |
|
Summer 2024 Study |
Summer 2025 Study |
Summer 2026 Co-op Term 1 |
Summer 2027 Study |
Summer 2028 Co-op Term 2 |
Co-op vs Internship
|
Feature |
Traditional Internship |
KU Co-op Program |
|---|---|---|
|
Paid experience |
No |
Yes |
|
Full recruitment cycle |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Embedded within curriculum |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Multiple work terms |
Usually, one summer |
Two terms (optional) |
|
Long-term industry relationships |
No |
Yes, built-in |
List of majors hyperlinked
Applicants must have a minimum CGPA of 3.25, have completed at least 75 credits to apply, and 90 credits to begin their work term. Additionally, candidates must complete the career preparation course and pass an interview process. This ensures that only motivated and qualified students participate, giving them the best chance for success in both their academic and professional development.
KU Programs Participating in the Co-op Program
College of Engineering and Physical Sciences:
College of Computing and Mathematical Sciences
College of Medicine and Health Sciences
Why Participate?
Eligibility Requirements
To participate in the Khalifa University Co-op Program, students must meet the following requirements:
Application Process
The application process is structured and supported by the University:
Preparing for Success
Before starting a Co-op work term, students must participate in mandatory preparation workshops, including:
These sessions are designed to support a smooth transition from academic study to an industrial professional practice.
Participating Academic Programs
The Co-op Program is currently available to select programs across Engineering, Computing, and Biomedical Engineering. Additional programs will be added as the initiative expands.
Student Information Sessions and Videos
Short, curated video content provides insight into the Co-op experience for students are available (URL address). Each video includes a brief written summary and is designed for quick reference.
Contact Information
For student inquiries, please contact:
Khalifa University collaborates with both private and government sectors to advance innovative research and deliver practical solutions. These strategic partnerships offer students valuable real-world experience and industry insights, fostering a strong connection between academia and industry. Together, they support technological progress and sustainable development, contributing to the achievement of national and global goals.
Developing Future Talent through Khalifa University Co-op
The Khalifa University Co-op Program connects industry partners with academically strong, professionally prepared students through extended, full-time work experience aligned with academic disciplines.
Through structured collaboration, organizations gain access to emerging talent while contributing to workforce development and innovation.
Why KU students?
Khalifa University students are driven, innovative, and committed to excellence. They are passionate explorers of knowledge, dedicated to advancing technology and research that make a positive impact on society. With a strong foundation in STEM disciplines, they showcase exceptional problem-solving skills, teamwork, and leadership qualities. These students embody the spirit of innovation and are prepared to excel in the ever-evolving global landscape, making Khalifa University proud of their achievements and their bright futures. Khalifa University’s Co-op program is designed to ensure that participants are well prepared and ready for the experience.
Why Partner with Khalifa University?
Industry partners benefit from:
About KU Co-op Students
Khalifa University Co-op students are selected through a structured eligibility and screening process. They demonstrate:
Students are supported throughout the work term by the Khalifa University Co-op Office and academic coordinators.
How the Program Works?
Partnering with the Khalifa University Co-op Program is straightforward:
The University provides ongoing coordination and support throughout the work term.
Partner Responsibilities
Industry partners are expected to:
These responsibilities support a high-quality experience for both students and industry partners.
Industry Partnerships
Khalifa University collaborates with public and private sector organizations across a range of industries. As the program grows, industry partners, testimonials, and example projects will be highlighted.
Get Involved
Organizations interested in participating in the Khalifa University Co-op Program are encouraged to contact the Co-op Office.
Email: industry.relations@ku.ac.ae
(Temporary contact until employer registration is live)
