Where Ohio State Talent Meets Real World Innovation
The Center for Software Innovation Part-Time Co-Op Program connects Ohio State students with startups and innovation-driven companies working on real product, engineering, and go-to-market challenges.
Through paid, part-time roles during the academic semester, students contribute to meaningful projects while gaining hands-on experience alongside founders, engineers, and operators, and companies gain access to motivated talent ready to support real work.
Students typically work 10–20 hours per week while remaining fully enrolled.
About the Program
The CSI Part-Time Co-op Program connects Ohio State students with startups and innovation-focused companies seeking support on real product, engineering, and go-to-market challenges.
Co-op programs integrate classroom learning with paid professional experience, allowing students to apply academic knowledge to real projects and industry challenges while completing their degree.
Through the CSI program, students gain access to a curated set of paid, part-time opportunities with companies working across technology, product, and growth functions. Companies hire students directly to contribute to real work during the academic semester.
Most roles involve 10–20 hours of work per week, allowing students to build practical experience while continuing their coursework.
Unlike traditional co-op models that require students to leave campus for full-time work terms, the CSI program enables students to contribute to companies during the academic semester, creating ongoing collaboration between students and industry.
Why a part time co-op?
Innovation teams often move quickly and benefit from contributors who can stay engaged over time. A part-time co-op allows students and companies to work together throughout the academic year while students continue developing skills in the classroom.
For Students
- Apply classroom learning to real product and technology challenges
- Build experience while staying on track academically
- Develop relationships with startups and innovation teams
- Gain exposure to fast-moving work environments
For Companies
- Access motivated Ohio State students with technical and analytical skills
- Engage student contributors throughout the semester, not just the summer
- Build continuity across multiple semesters if desired
- Identify potential future hires
FAQ
For students
What is the CSI Part-Time Co-op Program?
The CSI Part-Time Co-op connects Ohio State students with startups and innovation-focused companies offering paid, part-time work during the academic semester. Students apply their skills to real projects while continuing their coursework.
How many hours per week will I work?
Most roles require 10–20 hours per week during the semester.
Are these positions paid?
Yes. All opportunities in the program are paid roles with the participating company.
Do I work for the Center for Software Innovation?
Most students are hired directly by participating companies. CSI facilitates access to these opportunities through the program’s job board. In some cases, CSI may also offer project-based opportunities where a cohort of students work together on a defined project in collaboration with an industry partner.
Who can participate?
The program has a basic application process with CSI, but is open to Ohio State undergraduates interested in growing experience in technology, startups, and innovation-driven companies.
Roles may include work in areas such as:
Software development
AI / machine learning
Go-to-market (GTM) analysis
Product or engineering operations
Marketing and growth
Sales development
Account management
How do I apply?
Students begin by completing the CSI Part-Time Co-op interest form. Once approved, they receive access to the CSI job board where they can explore opportunities and apply directly to roles that match their interests.
Can I apply to multiple opportunities?
Yes. Students are encouraged to apply to any roles that align with their interests and skills.
Where are the jobs located?
Opportunities may be remote, hybrid, or in-person, depending on the company.
Can I work with the same company for multiple semesters?
In many cases, yes. If both the student and company are interested, placements can often continue across multiple terms.
Can I participate as an international student?
Yes, but please review the Office of International Affairs Employment Page information on restrictions, authorization form requirements, and other regulations.
For companies
What is the CSI Part-Time Co-op Program?
The CSI Part-Time Co-op connects startups and innovation-focused companies with Ohio State students interested in contributing to real product, engineering, and go-to-market work during the academic semester.
How many hours do students typically work?
Students typically work 10–20 hours per week during the academic semester. Companies are encouraged to discuss exact work expectations directly with the student(s).
Who employs the student?
In most cases, the company hires the student directly as a part-time employee or contractor.
What types of roles can companies post?
Companies can post opportunities across a range of functions, including:
Software development
AI / machine learning
Product development
GTM strategy and analysis
Marketing or growth
Sales development
Operations or analytics
Roles should involve meaningful work aligned with the student’s skills and academic background.
How do companies participate?
Companies begin by completing a short intake form. Once reviewed by CSI, they receive access to the CSI platform where they can post opportunities and review student applicants.
Can companies hire more than one student?
Yes. Companies may hire multiple students depending on their needs and the scope of available work.
Does the company need a designated supervisor?
Yes, companies should designate a supervisor who can guide the student’s work and serve as the point of contact for CSI. The supervisor will be asked to provide mid-semester and end-of-semester feedback through a short CSI-provided survey.
Are roles remote or in-person?
Companies may offer remote, hybrid, or in-person roles, depending on the nature of the work.
Can companies work with CSI on project-based engagements?
Yes. In some cases, companies may collaborate with CSI on defined projects where a small cohort of students works together on a specific initiative.
When do students typically start?
Most placements align with academic terms:
Fall semester: September start
Spring semester: January start
What compensation is expected?
Students should be paid at a competitive hourly rate appropriate for their role, experience, and the job market. CSI can help companies navigate this conversation on an as-need basis.