Faculty of Arts and Faculty of Science

Arts and Science Co-operative Education Option

Assistant Director of Co-operative Education: Karen McCargar, BA, Ext. 4105

The Option is provided in the Faculties of Arts and Science to offer all full-time Honours students an educational alternative. Co-op programs formally integrate students' academic studies with work experience in co-operative employer organizations.

Arts and Science Co-op students complete two work terms of at least 10 weeks each, in approved employment related to their discipline. Students begin their first work term after completing at least four academic terms. Normally work terms will be completed during the summer after Second and Third Year, although work term requirements may also be fulfilled through full- or part-time positions scheduled during the academic year.

To obtain the Co-op designation, students must successfully complete all the requirements of both their academic program and the Co-op program. For a complete description of the academic program, please refer to the academic program requirements of the departments offering the Co-op Option.

Students successfully completing the Option will have the notation "Co-operative Option" appended to their transcripts and noted on their degree. No academic credit is given for participation in Co-op.

The development of suitable work term positions for Co-op students is under the direction of the Department of Co-operative Education. Students apply to employers with whom they are interested in working. Employers are encouraged to interview on campus. Students prepare for the job search by attending workshops and individual counselling sessions.

Although employment cannot be guaranteed, every effort is made to ensure that suitable employment is available for students admitted to the Option. Each position is approved as a suitable learning situation, and students are engaged in productive work. Their progress is monitored by the Co-op Office and their performance is supervised and evaluated by their employers. Students are compensated by their employers for work performed, unless students elect to accept volunteer positions.

A Co-op fee is payable in each academic term of Second and Third Year.