Abu dhabi: Khalifa University of Science and Technology today announced it will be launching Cooperative Education (Co-op) courses from Fall 2026, integrating academic learning with practical hands-on experience in engineering and computing fields. Each co-op semester spans 6 months, with the first earning 2 credits, while eligibility criteria include those with a CGPA of 3.25 and a minimum of 75 credits to apply and 90 credits to start. Students who would like to enrol need to demonstrate full-time commitment, compliance with guidelines, and completion of 26 weeks with the assigned organisation, either on-site or in offices.
According to Emirates News Agency, the launch ceremony at the Main Campus included a panel discussion moderated by Maryam Alkindi, Director, Student Success and Alumni Services. Panelists included Professor Ehab El-Sadaany, Dean, College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, an industry representative, and two Co-op alumni from Waterloo University. Students will earn community service hours for attending the ceremony and the panel discussion.
Professor Bayan Sharif, Provost, Khalifa University, stated that the launch of the co-op course reflects a strong commitment to helping students acquire additional skills during their campus life. The program integrates academic studies with work experience, alternating periods of study and work, involving a partnership between students, institutions, and employers. Khalifa University is initiating such an arrangement to facilitate employability, and financial support for students, while employers gain access to talented students, and reduced recruitment costs, contributing to workforce development. This course also supports the UAE's knowledge-economy transformation.
The co-op program helps students apply classroom knowledge to real-world engineering challenges through supervised work placements, gain essential workplace skills, and explore potential career paths. Elements of co-operative education programs build quality into program delivery while offering an enriched understanding of a student's academic program through practical application.
Through the competitive co-op placement process, students develop the ability to assess their skill level, prepare a polished r©sum©, and go through the interview process successfully. Their work experiences allow them to develop employability skills, gain an understanding of career opportunities in their areas of study, and workplace realities.
The co-op programme assists in cultivating professional skills, including communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, while offering exposure to the expectations and culture of the professional arena. It facilitates exploration of career interests and industry sectors while enhancing employability through practical experience and networking.