Future Co-op Students - Bishop's University

Embark on an enriching journey of professional growth and real-world experience by joining our Co-op Program! Designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and the practical demands of the workforce, our Co-op Program offers unparalleled opportunities for students to thrive in their chosen fields.

By becoming a part of our Co-op Program, you gain access to a vast network of industry partners, eager to provide you with hands-on training and mentorship. Immerse yourself in real-life projects, solving challenges, and contributing meaningfully to the success of leading organizations.

With multiple work terms available, you have the chance to explore various industries, discover your passion, and tailor your career path. Our Co-op Advisor will guide you every step of the way, assisting in securing placements and offering continuous support throughout your work terms.

Beyond the tangible benefits, our Co-op Program nurtures essential skills like communication, teamwork, and adaptability, making you stand out in a competitive job market. You will have a solid foundation to propel your career and transform your aspirations into reality. Don’t miss this opportunity to seize a head-start on your professional journey and make a lasting impact. Join our Co-op Program today and unlock the door to a world of endless possibilities!

What is the Co-operative (Co-op) education program?

Co-operative Education seeks to complement a student’s academic program with full-time integrated work experiences. These paid work terms allow you to:

apply concepts learned in the classroom to real-life experiences
explore careers
begin building your network
gain valuable experience while earning your degree

Ultimately, this increases your marketability and provides a competitive advantage as you begin your career after graduation.

Co-op Spotlight by Yasmine L.

Coop students in a placement at SherWeb.

As an HR Marketing co-op student at SherWeb, I work on a variety of Human Resources projects using marketing tools and practices. The combination of the two disciplines is a challenge that leaves room for a lot of creativity. I am pleased to have a supportive and competent HR team to guide me throughout my work term.
Yasmine L. (Marketing)

Who is eligible to join the Co-op program?

Admission into the Co-op program is limited to the following degree students:

BBA
BA Major/Honours Business
B.Sc Computer Science
BAIT

In addition, you must:

have completed at least 15 credits by the end of the fall semester;
have completed BMG191- Fundamentals of Workplace Preparation and Professional Development (Business students in one of the new programs only);
have a cumulative average of at least 70% or expect to have a cumulative average of at least 70% after the first semester for first year students; and
have a keen interest in learning outside the classroom.

What are the advantages of belonging to the Co-op Program?

Get paid hands on work experience all while earning 3 business elective credits
Gain access to exclusive job postings for Co-op students
Learn about what jobs are available in your field that fit your interests and personality
Define your career goals
Great networking opportunities with community members and professionals in your field
Support from a Co-op advisor (job search, resume review, interview role play, etc.)
Free workshops!
Employers identify internship experience as a differentiator between 2 equal candidates. – Increase your chances of getting hired when you graduate?

Co-op Spotlight by Kassandra B.

Kassandra B. a finance student in the WSB.

Co-op has given me a truly incredible opportunity to work in a field and for a company that I love. I am able to gain knowledge about important subjects I need for a successful transition to the working world, all while gaining credits and sharing my experiences with colleagues and students. I highly recommend being part of co-op to every student.
Kassandra B (Finance)

Did you know?

Co-op grads earn 15% higher starting salaries than non-Co-op grads.
Statistics Canada Youth in Transition Survey (YITS), 2011
Co-op students are more likely to land more prestigious, better paying jobs than their non Co-op peers.
Statistics Canada Youth in Transition Survey (YITS), 2011
80% of employers surveyed say Co-op and internship students are a source of new talent and potential future employees.
Leger Marketing employer survey for Universities Canada, 2014
Graduates from Co-op programs report better job-education match
Statistics Canada Graduating in Canada: Profile, Labour Market Outcomes and Student Debt of the Class of 2009-2010, 2014

Is the Co-op program right for you?

It is if you are looking to:

Gain valuable paid work experience in your field of study
Develop professional skills and gain a better understanding of the workplace
Discover the careers that best suit you by exploring different job opportunities
Meet key people in the job market who can be instrumental in you securing a position after you graduate
Have opportunities to travel around the world, allowing you to benefit from invaluable personal and professional growth while seeing new places and experiencing diverse cultures
Learn how to identify your strengths and develop skills essential for future careers and to become more confident and assured in your own skills and abilities.

After reviewing the benefits of joining, if you find yourself with any lingering questions or uncertainties, you are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the Co-op Advisor (Coop@ubishops.ca) who is eager to provide you with in-depth insights and address any concerns you may have. This personalized discussion will help you make an informed decision about whether the Co-op Program aligns with your academic and career aspirations.

FAQ

The pre-requisite BMG 191 course, Fundamentals of Workplace Preparation and Professional Development, is a one credit lab course which covers:

job search strategies and networking,
the importance of LinkedIn and the creation and upkeep of your LinkedIn profile
the do’s and don’ts of a resumé and cover letter (one which will get you noticed!)
self-branding
interview skills,
workplace etiquette and professionalism

The duration of most work terms typically spans 12 to 16 weeks, with a minimum requirement of 420 total hours. Alternatively, work terms that consist of 15-20 hours per week are also accepted, provided the overall minimum of 420 hours is met.

They are considered as 3-credit courses in addition to regular degree credits.

It is important to note that students must apply to be accepted into the Co-op program.

If you meet all other requirements, you will be given provisional acceptance into the Co-op program pending completion of this lab course.

Your chances are significantly enhanced that this will be the case. It’s much easier to find full-time employment when you’ve acquired experience and skills through CO-OP placements. In fact, sometimes our students find a full-time position even before they’ve graduated!

Speak to a fellow student who is in the program, come by the Co-op Office (Hamilton 211), call 819-822-9600, ext. 2076, or send an email to coop@ubishops.ca.

If you are from the CEGEP system, you must complete 2 placements. If not, you must complete 3 placements.

Even if you do not complete the necessary placements for the Co-op designation, an internship still looks great on a CV.

Yes. You need a minimum average of 70%. If your average drops below the minimum required to stay in the Co-op Program, you have one semester to bring your average back up before you will be asked to withdraw from the program. You also need to remain a full-time student.

Yes, once your average has been brought up to the required 70%.

For sure! There are certain regulations and requirements that they must fulfill in order to engage in an internship. It is important for international students to consult with the Bishop’s Immigration Advisor – International Student Success to ensure what requirements must be met and to obtain the appropriate permits. The specific rules and regulations may vary depending on the province and individual circumstances, so it’s crucial to seek accurate and up-to-date information.

Other than the regular course fees for BMG 391-391-393, there are no additional fees.