TUSCALOOSA, Ala. ­ The offices of The University of Alabama Cooperative Education (Co-op) Program were recently moved from H. M. Comer Hall to the front section of Houser Hall Annex on the UA campus.

The building was renovated in preparation for the move.

"The Houser Annex is a great spot for us because it is in a convenient location for all University students to come in and learn about the benefits of the program," said Dr. Bill Taylor, Co-op director. The building is across the street from the Ferguson Student Center, facing Seventh Avenue.

The University's Co-op Program was started about 50 years ago in the College of Engineering and now serves as a University-wide program where students receive employment experience by working in a business or industry every other semester while studying at UA. Students are placed in positions related to their majors and to the careers they plan to pursue after graduation.

The University has about 300 Co-op students, gaining experience in their fields of expertise at locations coast to coast. According to Taylor, the new location with expanded facilities will be ideal for prospective students and parents, as well as current UA students, faculty and employers.

Co-op's new offices include an expanded resource area containing employer information on CDs and videos, and a computer for students to check out potential employers' Web sites. The office is equipped so students can complete applications and send information to their prospective employers. Also available is a conference area for students, parents and employers to discuss the program, and a wheelchair-accessible interview room on the first floor.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new location will be held later this semester.

For more information about Co-op opportunities, contact Taylor at 205/348-6422.