Getting started can feel like a lot, but you don’t have to figure it out on your own. From on-campus jobs to internships and career readiness, you’ll find tools, tips, and support to help you understand where to look, how it works, and how to take your first steps with confidence. 

On-Campus Jobs

 

What kinds of jobs are available? 
There is a wide variety of on-campus jobs, from office and academic department roles to dining services, facilities, and more. Many positions do not require previous experience, and new opportunities open up throughout the year.

When should I apply? 
Handshake typically becomes available to students in August. There is no need to rush. Many students wait until they arrive on campus and have a better sense of their schedule before applying. Hiring happens year-round, so you will not miss your chance.

How do I find a job? 
Handshake is the best place to search and apply for on-campus jobs. Each fall and spring, we host an on-campus job fair where you can meet employers and learn about available roles. If you are not sure where to start, the Career Center can help.

Are campus jobs flexible? 
Yes. Campus employers understand that you are a student first, so your work schedule is built around your classes, practices, and involvement. This flexibility can be harder to find with off-campus jobs.

Do I need work-study to get a job? 
No. All students can work on campus. You do not need work-study as part of your financial aid package. Work-study is simply a funding designation for some students and does not limit the jobs you can apply for.

I am an international student. Can I work on campus? 
Yes. International students are eligible to work on campus right away, including during their first year. On-campus jobs offer an immediate way to gain experience and earn income. Off-campus employment becomes an option later and requires additional authorization.

Are jobs available year-round? 
Yes. Campus employers are consistently hiring throughout the academic year, and many departments also offer summer positions.

What about Concordia Language Villages? 
Working with Concordia Language Villages is considered on-campus employment, even though programs are held off-site. This can expand your options, especially for summer work or added flexibility.

Find Jobs and Internships on Handshake 

 

What is Handshake? 
Handshake is the primary platform Concordia students use to find jobs, internships, and events. Opportunities are specifically posted for students, and many do not require prior experience.

How do I get started? 
Use your cord.edu email to log in and activate your account. Accounts for incoming students are typically loaded into the system sometime in August.


When you log in for the first time, you will be prompted to complete your profile. Take a few minutes to add your interests, experiences, and skills. This helps Handshake recommend relevant opportunities and allows employers to find you.

Why does my profile matter? 
Handshake uses your profile to suggest jobs, internships, and events tailored to you. The more complete your profile, the better your recommendations will be.

When will I have access? 
Accounts are created throughout the summer and updated each semester. You should have access by mid-August. If you have trouble logging in, contact the Career Center at career@cord.edu or 218.299.3020.

Quick tip 
Always use your cord.edu email. Do not create an account with a personal email address. Youll have the option to add an additional email address once you have set up your account.

International Students


Can international students work on campus?
 

Yes. International students are eligible to work on campus right away, including during their first year. On-campus jobs offer an immediate way to gain experience and earn income. Off-campus employment becomes an option later and requires additional authorization.

International students can apply for the same campus jobs as domestic students, including office positions, dining services, academic departments, student support roles, and Concordia Language Villages opportunities.

 

What about off-campus opportunities?
After completing at least one academic year, international students may become eligible for off-campus internship experiences related to their major area of study. Additional authorization is required before beginning any off-campus work. We highly recommend that you contact the Office of Global Learning for further information.

Career Readiness at Concordia


Career readiness happens throughout your Concordia experience, not just when you begin applying for jobs or internships.

You will build valuable skills and experiences through academics, internships, on-campus jobs, student organizations, research, service, leadership opportunities, and employer connections across campus.

The Career Center helps you connect those experiences to your future goals through advising, workshops, networking opportunities, job fairs, internships, and career resources.

Contact

Career Center

8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday Parke Student Leadership Center, Knutson Campus Center