FCS Co‑op Experiential Learning Program
In the Tech Industry, employers want workers with two major things: Computer Science knowledge and job experience. Every job post or job ad lists a Computer Science degree/certificate and months/years of job experience as requirements. It is crucial that students gain relevant job experience alongside pursuing academic studies, if they want to be employable following graduation. The Faculty of Computer Science therefore offers a Co-op Experiential Learning Program.
What does co-op mean?
Co-op means co-operative education. It refers to the semesters within the degree program that are set aside for students to work for an employer. During those semesters, students are actively employed and work alongside other company employees. They practically apply the academic knowledge gained from study terms to fulfil the requirements of their job. They also earn a salary for their work. After completing a co-op semester, students would return to the classroom in the next semester.
How many co-op semesters are there?
In Computer Science undergraduate degree programs there are three co-op semesters. They are scheduled as follows:
| Year | Fall | Winter | Spring/Summer |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Study | Study | Break |
| 2 | Study | Study | Co-op |
| 3 | Study | Co-op | Study |
| 4 | Co-op | Study | Study/Break |
| 5 | Study if not completed in Spring/Summer | ||
How does co-op benefit students?
- During co-op semesters students reinforce their learning through applying knowledge and skills to real world problems.
- Students build real world job experience which gives them a competitive advantage in the job market after graduating.
- By working with various companies and professionals, students can establish invaluable contacts that can help connect them with long term jobs after graduating.
- Co-op work terms are paid work terms. Employers pay competitive wages and sometimes relocation expenses.
How do students get involved in co-op semesters?
- Computer Science students must apply to the Science, Information Technology, Engineering and Co-op office.
- They generally apply to co-op at the end of their first year of study.
- They must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 and be in good academic standing. They must also complete specific course requirements.
What are the financial fees for co-op?
| Fee | Category | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| $309 | Mandatory Co-op Orientation Course | One-time payment. Prepares students to apply for jobs and be successful in the workplace. Students will learn how to prepare relevant job application resources (i.e. resumes and cover letters) and the behaviour expectations of employees in the Canadian workplace. |
$515
|
Program Fee
|
This is a program fee, not a placement fee. It is assessed if you find your own job and it is non-refundable if do not find a job. If you are not doing a scheduled work term notify the Co-op Office before the start of the job competition to avoid the charge. It is charged for each co-op work term. |
| $334 | Computer Science Co-op Course Fee | This is the cost of the Co-op course you would register for during your co-op semester. The Co-op course is graded and counts towards an elective. Register for the course for each co-op work term. |
Is co-op worth the extra time, effort, and money?
Co-op and other experiential learning opportunities are arguably the best way to be career ready after completing a degree. Not only are co-op students better prepared to begin working right away, they are generally hired faster and paid better than graduates with no Computer Science work experience. Employers prefer experienced workers and are therefore more likely to select them. If your goal is to find a well-paying job within the first year of finishing your degree, co-op should be a part of your Computer Science degree program.
Where can I find more information about co-op?
The Science, Information Technology, Engineering, Co-operative Education website has more information on the co-op application process and other co-op related resources.