SkillsRI Cooperative (Co-Op) Learning Program 

Get Paid. Get Experience. Get Career-Ready.

The SkillsRI Cooperative (Co-Op) Learning Program is a year-long, paid opportunity for college students to gain real-world business experience while earning money and academic credit.

In partnership with Rhode Island College – School of Business, the Co-Op helps you turn classroom learning into hands-on experience — so you can build your resume, grow your skills, and launch your career with confidence.


What You’ll Do

As a Co-Op student, you will:

  • Work in real business roles
  • Learn from professionals and mentors
  • Build skills employers are looking for
  • Gain experience that sets you apart after graduation

Skills for Rhode Island’s Future (SkillsRI) handles payroll and HR, so you can focus on learning and growing.


What You’ll Gain

  • Earn up to $10,000 for the academic year
  • Receive up to 4 academic credits
  • Real-world experience for your resume
  • Professional mentorship
  • Confidence and career readiness

Who Is Eligible

Students must:

  • Be enrolled at Rhode Island College – School of Business
  • Have a minimum GPA of 2.0
  • Be eligible to work in the U.S.
  • Be motivated, dependable, and ready to learn

Applications for the 2026-2027 school year are now closed.

Check back for future opportunities to apply and be part of this career-launching experience.