NASA Glenn Research Center
Cooperative Education Program
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cooperative Education Program?

A Cooperative Education program prepares students for their careers by providing them with work experience in areas related to their field of study.

The NASA Glenn Research Center has had a Cooperative Education program since the early 1970's. The Center relies heavily on this program as a tool to recruit the best and brightest students to staff positions in vital areas of our organization.

How many universities and students participate in the program?

The Cooperative Education program at Glenn recruits students nationwide. Students participating in the program attend universities such as University of New Mexico, University of Puerto Rico, Purdue University, Ohio State University, Georgia Tech, Bowling Green State University, Cleveland State University and many more. The number of students participating in the program varies depending on the time of the school year. The majority of the students in the program work during the summer months.
What work schedules does the Co-op program offer?

As a co-op at Glenn, one of two options are available. A co-op student can either alternate periods of full-time study and full-time work, or simultaneously work part-time while going to school part-time. Students who choose to work part-time while going to school may work no more than 20 hours per week.

Is there a specified number of hours that students have to work?

In order to be considered for conversion, a student has to work a minimum of 640 hours or 16 workweeks. Students choosing to alternate workperiods are required to have two work experiences. Summers may be used for one workperiod but not both. Students must continue work rotations or a part-time work schedule throughout their academic career. For example, a student may not begin co-oping the summer leading into their junior year, attend school their entire junior year as well as the summer, then come back to Glenn during the fall of their senior year. Student's who require attending school for the entire school year without rotations, must first seek approval from the Co-op Coordinator.

I'm not an engineering student, can I still Co-op at GRC?

Yes, we do have opportunities for students who are not majoring in engineering, most often in places like our procurement, human resources, chief financial, and public affairs office. Check out what positions are available.
What is there to do after work and on the weekends?

Cleveland is a great city with lots of fun, new, and exciting things going on. Cleveland is home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Great Lakes Science Center and the Flats. There is shopping at the newly built Crocker Park, only 15 minutes from Glenn, as well as Legacy Village. Come out an experience what Cleveland has to offer in terms of plays, movies, Food Festivals, The Cleveland Cavaliers, Cleveland Browns, and Cleveland Indians. Coops also go to lunches,dinners, movies, concerts, clubs, and bars (for those of legal age). Co-ops can enjoy going to the many Metroparks, the zoo, museums, amusement parks including Geauga Lake, Cedar Point and more.
How does NASA compare to other agencies?

The Partnership for Public Service and American University's Institute for the Study of Public Policy Implementation recently released the results of a comprehensive survey of federal government employees on various aspects of job satisfaction. NASA ranked first among all federal agencies in the survey. The results reflect the positive attitude of our workforce and their involvement in the NASA mission.

This first-ever survey of more than 100,000 government employees graded all the federal agencies on several categories related to employee satisfaction. Survey questions were drawn from the Office of Personnel Management's Federal Human Capital Survey. The rankings reflect the opinions of the people who know these organizations best, the federal employees who work there.

NASA took home nearly every "best in class" award across categories ranging from "Work/Life Balance" to "Training and Development."

Click here for more information direct from the source.
Can non-US citizens Co-op at GRC?

Unfortunately, since we are a federal institution, and are federally funded, we are only able to hire U.S. citizens to work directly for NASA. However, our contractors may have different policies.
Does the co-op program provide housing and transportation?

The program does not provide students with housing or transportation. A list of housing along with other valuable tips can be provided by the co-op coordinator upon request.
Will I need a car?

A car is highly recommended since there is little housing within walking distance, but fortunately the public transportation system (RTA) has a route (78 : West 98th - Puritas) to GRC. It may also be possible to carpool if you plan to live with another GRC Co-op.
What kind of clothes will I need?

The style of dress depends on where you work at Glenn. For instance, in a lab you may wear jeans, however, if you are primarily in an office this may not be acceptable. The best advice is to plan for "business casual" but be prepared and bring appropriate attire for presentations. If you are still uncertain, it may also be beneficial to ask your supervisor prior to arriving at Glenn.

As for non-work, bring seasonal clothes. Cleveland winters bring lots of snow and cold temperatures. Spring and fall are usually moderate, while summers are hot and humid. Be sure to bring some workout clothes if you plan to take advantage of the fitness center and leisure activities available at Glenn.
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Curator:  Nazzetta W. Robinson