Immerse yourself in professional environments within a specific industry or field.
WHY Co-op Education?
A UBC program which alternatives periods of academic study with period of paid work experience, providing a comprehensive learning experience. The experience offers students the opportunity to immerse themselves in professional environments within a specific industry or field, facilitating valuable reflection, exploration and skill development.
UBC is the largest co-op program in Western Canada and one of the most successful programs in the country
Students engaging in a co-op work term enter into an employment agreement with the employer organization.
Benefits and Outcomes
Guided Skill Development: Co-op provides supervised guidance over an extended period, fostering deeper learning and skill development.
Tailored Experience: Co-op work experiences enhance students’ understanding of the value and applicability of their degrees.
Professional Skill Enhancement: Student gain practical experience in professional settings, bolstering their professional skills alongside academic learning.
Holistic Preparation: Co-op education offers a comprehensive approach that bridges theory and practice, equipping students with the tools they need for success in their chosen careers.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Duration
Co-op work experiences vary from 4-, 8-, 12- or 16- month terms of full-time paid work experience. The work terms begin every January, May or September.
Recognition/compensation
Co-op work experiences are full time paid positions where the student are employees of the hiring organization.
All Co-op work terms receive recognition on the UBC academic transcript
ELIGIBILITY AND APPLYING
Program Requirements
Students
Students must be enrolled in their applicable co-op program to participate in co-op work experiences (work terms). Eligibility criteria differs for each program and it requires a program application.
Typically, students are eligible to apply to join UBC co-op programs at the start of 2nd or 3rd year.
Employers
Co-op programs at UBC are connected to specific programs of study. Co-op experiences should challenge the student with work experiences relevant to their academic pursuits and/or career development.
Positions should be paid at an appropriate salary for the industry and level of responsibility. The work experience needs supervision by a professional who offers mentorship and feedback throughout the work term.
How to Apply
Students
Students should check with with Interdisciplinary Co-op Education or Applied Science Co-op.
Employers
Job postings can be shared to all UBC co-op programs at https://coop.ubc.ca/post-job