Khalifa University to Launch Cooperative Education in Fall 2026

• Khalifa University to launch Co-op courses in Fall 2026, blending academics with industry experience.
• Students need a 3.25 CGPA and 90 credits for the 6-month full-time program.
• Program boosts employability, job skills, and supports the UAE’s knowledge economy.

Khalifa University of Science and Technology announced today the introduction of Cooperative Education (Co-op) courses starting in Fall 2026, combining academic studies with practical experience in engineering and computing disciplines.

Every co-op semester lasts 6 months, granting 2 credits for the first, with eligibility requirements comprising a CGPA of 3.25 and at least 75 credits to apply, and 90 credits to commence. Students wishing to enroll must show full-time dedication, adherence to regulations, and fulfillment of 26 weeks with the designated organization, either in-person or in offices.

Professor Bayan Sharif, Provost, Khalifa University, said, “The launch of the co-op course reflects our strong commitment to helping students acquire additional skills during their campus life. It integrates academic studies with work experience, alternating periods of study and work, involving a partnership between students, institutions, and employers. Khalifa University is proud to initiate such an arrangement that facilitates employability, and financial support, even as employers gain access to talented students, and reduced recruitment costs while contributing to workforce development. This course also serves as part of our mandate to support the UAE’s knowledge-economy transformation.”

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The co-op program enables students to utilize classroom learning in practical engineering situations via valuable, guided work experiences, develop important job skills, and investigate possible career options. Components of co-operative education programs enhance quality in program delivery and provide a deeper comprehension of a student’s academic curriculum through real-world application.

In the competitive co-op placement process, students enhance their capability to evaluate their skill set, create a professional resume, and navigate the interview process effectively. Additionally, through their job experiences, students can enhance and improve employability skills, acquire insights into career paths in their fields of study, and understand workplace dynamics.

The co-op program helps develop professional skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, while providing insight into the standards and culture of the work environment. It enables the discovery of career interests and industry fields, while improving employability through hands-on experience and networking opportunities.