Co-op Entry Template

Overview

Cooperative education (Co-op) allows students to integrate their classroom learning with a real-world experience through paid work terms. Two academic terms prior to the cooperative education work term, students are required to participate and successfully complete the self-directed co-op online readiness activities and in-person workshops.

Students must actively conduct a guided, self-directed job search and are responsible for securing approved program-related paid co-op employment. Algonquin College`s Co-op Department provides assistance in developing co-op job opportunities and facilitates the overall process, but does not guarantee that a student will obtain employment in a co-op work term.

This program is accredited by Cooperative Education and Work Integrated Learning Canada. This Accreditation represents the highest standard of achievement for co-operative education programs in Canada and recognizes Algonquin’s commitment to excellence.

Requirements for work term

To participate in a co-op work term the student must meet all eligibility requirements including:

  • Be registered as a full-time student in a program offering a co-op component
  • Be registered in a course load that will complete all required courses for all levels preceding a scheduled work term for the program
  • Meet the Program Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) as calculated by the academic department. Achievement of this minimum does not guarantee admission into co-op. Please consult with your Faculty Program Co-op Coordinator for your program specific GPA requirement
  • Remain on cycle with the Program of Study. This is a “ONE TIME OPPORTUNITY” to apply and qualify. Please consult the Co-op Department or the Program’s Coordinator for additional details
  • Have passed all prerequisite courses in your program of study

Requirements to get accepted – do we need this section?

This program offers one cooperative education (Co-op) Work Term. Qualified students meeting the minimum GPA requirement have the opportunity to apply for a paid co-op employment to gain valuable work experience and networks within the industry. Please contact your Program Coordinator for specific qualification requirements. Cooperative education (Co-op) Work Terms are typically four months in duration and are completed during a term when students are currently not studying on campus.

Co-op Information – do we need this section?

Co-op programs add value to your education. Earn while you apply what you learn in a real workplace environment. See the Co-op Web pages for more details.

The College cannot guarantee co-op employment. All co-op students are required to conduct an independent co-op job search in addition to the supports and services provided by the Department of Co-op Education.

Students are responsible for their own transportation and associated costs in order to complete work term requirements. Work locations may not always be readily accessible by public transportation.

Student Work Term Schedule

Students are expected to follow the work term schedule(s) for their program below. Some programs allow students to change the work term sequence with the permission of the Co-op Faculty Advisor. Depending on the students’ schedule and preference, their work term can be extended to 8, 12 or 16 months of continuous employment.

Additional Information

If you are an international student enrolled in the co-op program, you are required to have a valid co-op work permit before starting your work-term. You must apply for and receive a Social Insurance Number in order to work in Canada. You are encouraged to start the application process in your preparation