William Diaz-Berthiaume – December 4, 2023

What Are CO-OP Placements? Should You Take Part In One?

Many students, when entering universities, are presented the option of adding the “CO-OP Option” to their degree.

However, many students are unsure of what those CO-OP placements even are! if you’re one of those, then stick around!

WHAT IS “CO-OP”?

CO-OP placements, designed to enrich students’ educational journey, are immersive work experiences integrated into students’ academic curriculum. In Canada, these placements offer students the unique opportunity to put into practice the theory they are learning in classrooms.

A CO-OP program, or Cooperative Education program, involves alternating semesters of classroom study with paid work terms in professional settings related to a student’s field of study.

This model not only equips you with hands-on experience in your chosen profession but also fosters a deeper understanding of industry practices and expectations as well as giving you valuable experience in industries you intend to work in after graduation.

Essentially, a CO-OP placement provides a dynamic learning environment where you can apply classroom knowledge to practical scenarios, build a valuable professional network, experience, and gain a competitive edge in the job market upon graduation.

WHAT SHOULD YOU CONSIDER A CO-OP PROGRAM?

By choosing a CO-OP program, many interesting factors come into play.

First, a CO-OP placement serves as a powerful networking platform. By immersing yourself in the professional landscape during these work terms, you have the invaluable opportunity to build connections with industry experts and potential employers.

This network can become very useful in shaping your career trajectory post-graduation. Networking is a crucial skill students must develop as early as possible. By growing your network, you can make crucial connections with industry leaders, meet individuals working in industries you are interested in, and learn more about these industries.

Speaking from personal experience as a student who has done co-op work and work with YCR, having a strong and diverse network can prove to be useful!

As mentioned, a CO-OP program offers an unparalleled opportunity to gain an understanding of your chosen industry, not only by networking and talking to people who know the industry, but by living its realities yourself.

Experiencing day-to-day operations, challenges, and innovations in a real-world setting provides insights that one could never find in the confines of the classroom. This firsthand knowledge not only enhances your academic learning but also equips you with a competitive advantage in the job market.

Thirdly, a CO-OP placement serves as a strategic pathway to securing your place in the workforce after completing your degree.

Employers often view CO-OP experiences favorably, and by excelling in these work terms, you increase the likelihood of securing a job with the company post-graduation.

Finally, a CO-OP program even allows you to earn income throughout your university years. I doubt any student would complain about this!

The University of Ottawa has calculated that CO-OP students can earn up to $12 000 per work term. This means that a student who completes 4 work terms can earn up to $48 000! All while completing their degree. This number varies per study program.

In short, a CO-OP program is not just an educational supplement; it’s a dynamic bridge to professional success, offering networking opportunities, industry insights, and a potential post-graduate career pathway, all while offering students an opportunity to make money as they complete their degree.

Below, you can find a few links to CO-OP programs for some of the top universities in Canada: