We’re committed to co-op

Waterloo has the largest post-secondary co-operative education program in the world, with more than 12,000 students enrolled in co-op programs and more than 3,500 active co-op employers.

Available in more than 100 different programs, UW co-op integrates academic learning and work experience. Because Waterloo is a research-intensive university with strong links to business and industry, what we teach is relevant. And we strongly encourage interdisciplinary study—meaning, among other things, that arts students can write technical manuals, recreation students can study management, and science students can be trained in marketing.

In recognition of the central place the co-op experience holds in the curriculum, we give our students formal academic credit for their co-op work terms.

We have a dedicated building

Co-operative Education & Career Services (CECS) is located in a modern, custom-designed, 45,500-square-foot building. The William M. Tatham Centre for Co-operative Education & Career Services provides 100 in-person interview rooms, 14 telephone interview rooms, group interview space, and a room equipped for teleconferencing. Nearby parking, a lounge for employers, and student change rooms with lockers make the process more comfortable and convenient. Our career services department is conveniently located on the main floor.

Our employers are valued partners

CECS prizes strong and close relationships with employers. We listen to our employers’ comments on how we conduct our business, with an eye to further enhancing those relationships.

Our upgraded online administrative system improves communication between students and employers and more efficiently processes data, monitors conditions, and forecasts trends.

Our students are workplace-ready

Waterloo offers employers the opportunity to tap the knowledge and skills of some of the most work-ready students in Canada. Our students accumulate up to six four-month paid work terms as part of their undergraduate degrees. The alternation of academics and work means they are available for employment throughout the year.

By 2008, all co-op students will be required to successfully complete workplace-related professional development courses that focus on “soft” skills not normally covered in the classroom, such as critical analysis, interpersonal communication, and professional ethics. These courses ensure that our students develop the skills and productivity valued by employers, and help students reflect on and absorb what they learn on their work terms.

Employers who hire UW co-op students will be first in line for permanent recruits, once students have graduated. Think of a work term as a four-month, in-depth job interview, the perfect way to evaluate potential future employees.

We encourage entrepreneurs

An innovative program called UW Enterprise Services, based in UW's Centre for Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology, helps students who want to develop their own businesses, sometimes for co-op credit. Students get help and advice in developing a business plan and, if they qualify, may receive up to $6,000 in matching start-up funds. Enterprise Services has helped launch 70 new business ventures since 1999.