Co-operative Education Program

Co-op Education is a form of work-integrated learning that combines classroom-based education with relevant, paid work experience and is a unique career-building opportunity for highly-motivated and committed students. Co-op students have the opportunity to apply their academic knowledge in a workplace setting directly related to their area of study.

Work experience opportunities may take the form of a single work term during the summer or a series of work terms throughout a four-year degree. All students complete their first work term in the spring, but returning students are eligible for further work terms in the fall and winter semesters. During the fall term, students are required to complete a non-credit course that covers topics ranging from resume-writing and interview skills to emotional intelligence and interpersonal professional skills. In the winter term, students are assisted in preparing for their job search and have access to the co-op job inventory. Networking and professional development events are held throughout the fall and winter.

When you complete a work term through the University’s Co-op Program, it appears on your transcript, whether you choose the for-credit option or the not-for-credit option. When you complete three work terms, you will receive a Co-operative Education Designation on your degree when you graduate.

Benefits of Joining the Co-operative Education Program

Set yourself apart. Our small cohort of Co-op students benefit from professional development training and one-on-one support that includes resume and cover letter writing, interview and job-search skills.

Gain real life work experience. The Co-op Program hosts several events throughout the year to give Co-op students the opportunity to develop their networking skills and connect with industry professionals from various organizations. Co-op students have access to co-op only job postings and receive support through the program to secure a work term.

Earn while you learn. By completing work terms, students build their resume over the course of their university studies. The majority of students who are successful in the program secure full-time employment in their field post-graduation

Eligibility

The Co-op Program is open to interested students pursuing a degree in the following departments:

• Business and Administration
• Economics
• Applied Computer Science

If your area of study is outside of the above, and you are interested in participating in the Co-op Program, please contact the Co-op Office to discuss your options. Students must have a minimum 3.0 CGPA, have completed 21 credit hours and be returning to the University in the semester following the work term. Students are required to go through an interview process prior to acceptance into the program.

Please contact the Co-op Office for more information on the eligibility requirements and student responsibilities at coop@uwinnipeg.ca or visit our website: uwinnipeg.ca/coop-program.