Abstract
The foremost aim of construction education is to equip students adequately to function effectively in
the construction industry after graduation. Considering the present-day challenges and
complexities of the industry, there is an increased need for graduates who do not only possess a
sound academic background, but also the necessary work experience. Transition from classroom
into full-time industry activities is never an easy ride for students, necessitating the need for work
experience to ease the shock of transition. In light of leveraging students to handle the various
demands of the present day construction industry competently, this article discusses the benefits of
cooperative education and internships in fostering construction education for the future. An extant
review of literature was conducted from journals, articles from databases such as Taylor and
Francis Online, Springer, Emerald, ASCE, Scopus, and ASC conference proceedings, amongst
others. One of the primary findings emanating from the study revealed that cooperative education
provides necessary work experience which helps students experience an easy transition from the
academic world to the complexity of the world of work. This work experience provides a capstone
experience for students which reinforces and expounds on the theories learnt in classrooms and
further improves their holistic development. With the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the
present day construction industry, it is essential for students to have a résumé that includes actual
industry exposure which gives them an added advantage. Hence, the findings of this paper provide
a foundation to increase effective HEIs pedagogical work practices to better prepare graduates
ahead of taking up positions in the construction industry.