The Cooperative Education program is a joint venture between employers and the Faculty whereby students undertake a 10-12 month paid industy placement in order to better prepare them for employment upon graduation. Students who participate in the program may also receive credit towards their studies.
This program is much more than just work experience for students. It is an opportunity for students to apply what they are learning in an area relevant to their chosen career path, while under the expert guidance of practising professionals and academic supervisors.
Cooperative Education employers, in consultation with the Faculty, develop detailed position descriptions for each placement. The Faculty discusses with the employer the nature of the work that will be undertaken and helps the students to obtain a suitable placement.
During a student's Cooperative Education placement they continue to be enrolled in their studies. An academic staff member visits the employer during the work program and monitors the student's progress. Students are assessed on the basis of presentations and reports, as well as reports from workplace supervisors and the program coordinator.