Faculty of Science

Professional Experience Program Option

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

The Co-op Option provides an opportunity for full-time HCCE students to integrate their academic studies with work experience in co-operating organizations.

The Professional Experience Program Option requires students to complete one work term of 12 to 16 months, in approved employment related to their discipline. The work term is conducted after the third year of the program. Students in the option graduate approximately 12 months after students in the regular program.

To obtain the Professional Experience Program designation, students must successfully complete all the requirements of both their academic program and the option. Students successfully completing the option will have the notation "Professional Experience Program Option" appended to their transcripts and noted on their degree. No academic credit is given for participation in this option.

The development of suitable work-term positions for Professional Experience Program 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. 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. Employment is not guaranteed, however.

Students pay a co-op fee in the fall and winter terms of their third year, and after a probationary employment period.