Early Career Co-Op Program

Early Career Co-Op Program

The Early Career Co‑op Program is a six‑week, training‑focused experience designed to expose early‑in‑career students to the fundamentals of working in a global professional services organization. This program emphasizes skill development, professional readiness, and business awareness, rather than long‑term project deployment, making it distinct from traditional internship programs.

Participants will engage in structured learning activities, foundational business training, and guided exposure to multiple functional areas, depending on business unit alignment and availability. This role is designed to support early career exploration and development across diverse teams that may operate in different domains, industries, or technical areas.

• Participation in a structured, instructor‑led and self‑directed training curriculum
• Introduction to core business concepts, tools, and methodologies relevant to professional services
• Completion of learning modules, case‑based exercises, and team‑based activities
• Shadowing and exposure to cross‑functional teams and business units, where applicable
• Development of foundational professional skills, including communication, collaboration, and problem‑solving
• Engagement in program check‑ins, learning reflections, and a capstone‑style learning summary or presentation

Required:

• Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in a STEM or Business‑related major (including but not limited to Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, Data Analytics, Finance, Accounting, Economics, Management, or related fields)
• Expected graduation date of:
  • May 2027 or December 2027
  • May 2028
• Strong interest in learning about professional services and early‑career pathways
• Ability to commit to the full six‑week program duration

Preferred:

• Demonstrated interest in technology, consulting, analytics, operations, or business strategy
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Curiosity, adaptability, and willingness to learn in a fast‑paced environment

Participants will leave the program with:

• Increased exposure to professional services environments
• Foundational technical or business skill development
• Greater clarity on early‑career pathways and areas of interest
• Enhanced professional confidence and readiness for future opportunities

Associates will be assigned to a Cognizant office in one of the following locations:

• Atlanta, Georgia
• Chicago, Illinois
• Englewood, Colorado
• Mesa, Arizona
• Plano, Texas
• Teaneck & Bridgewater, New Jersey

Associates are expected to work onsite at their assigned office location up to five days per week. Relocation assistance is not available for this program. In addition to the locations listed above, a limited number of fully remote positions may be available based on business needs and role alignment. Availability of remote roles is not guaranteed and will be determined by Cognizant.

The co‑op will last 6 weeks, starting in June 2026.

The hourly rate for this position is $20.00 per hour, depending on experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.

The hourly rate, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

Due to the nature of this position, Cognizant cannot provide sponsorship for U.S. work authorization (including participation in a CPT/OPT program) for this role.

Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.