the UC co-op program can work one of two ways...

1) there is a list of firms that usually take UC co-ops. You tell the co-op adviser which firms you would like to work for, and he / she contacts them on your behalf to get the process started. You then send resume, portfolio, etc. These firms have usually taken UC co-ops before, so they are used to the process and quality of the students.

2) decide where you want to work, and send that firm your portfolio, resume, and a letter telling the firm about UC's co-op program. If the firm wants to hire you for a co-op, you tell the co-op office and they (usually) will let you work at that office. (the co-op office is always trying to place students in other firms not on the list)


If you have never worked in an architecture office before, I would suggest getting a job with one of the firms on the 'list' for your first few co-ops. These firms are more likely to hire people with little or no experience. Naturally, the more experience and education you have (as well as a more developed portfolio) the easier it will be to get a job with the more selective firms.

As for the architecture / fine arts thing...people were taking jobs with engineers, construction companies, woodworking companies, graphic / video companies, and calling them architecture co-ops. If you are creative in 'selling' the co-op to the co-op advisers, you should be able to work in most any office.