There’s so much to be learned in the classroom, but there’s also a lot to be learned through practical experience—and that’s what co-op education is all about.
Co-op programs provide students with opportunities to work in their industry of interest and get paid while doing it. They reinforce what you’ve been learning in class by providing avenues to apply those skills in the real world.
But what is a co-op job? How do you secure a co-op placement? Keep reading to learn more about these exciting opportunities!
What is Co-op Education?
Co-operative education programs typically see students alternate between academic semesters and paid work terms.
For example, a student who is an accounting major could apply to work in an entry-level position at an accounting firm. As a co-op student, they’d get a first-hand look at what their everyday tasks would be—and get paid for their efforts.
While it may vary depending on your program, co-ops are generally 12 weeks (or 420 working hours). However, how those weeks or work hours are divided can vary depending on your program and the type of work placement you are pursuing.
The Different Types of Co-op Programs
Part-Time
Similar to a normal part-time job, this is a type of co-op work term that students can undertake while completing their classes. This means students can attend their classes first and work on-site at a company of their choice afterward.
Image source: Canva
One Semester
Some colleges and universities require their students to complete a semester of a full-time program. This means students can work within their chosen field and treat their co-op term as a full-time position while still gaining academic credit. Once the semester is over, students go back to their regular course schedule.
Alternating Semester
Alternating semester programs are the most common type of co-op placement. In this co-op system, a student can work in a full-time position for a semester, return to their regular class schedule, and come back to a work-integrated learning setting for another semester.
Note: Though it still depends on the college or university, some co-op students may be required to work for the same company or throughout each semester. Others may encourage students to work with different employers instead.
The Benefits of Being a Co-op Student
Applying for a co-op program offers several advantages, namely:
- You’ll Learn More About Your Field: A cooperative education program will allow you to test out a job and learn more about it. You might find it affirms your interest in a career or it might do the opposite—you won’t know until you try!
- You’ll Connect With Potential Employers: Co-op education gives you opportunities to make industry connections. If you do a great job, one of your co-op employers may decide to hire you back full-time after you graduate. If not, you’ll have an easier time finding a new job because you have relevant experience.
- You’ll Improve Your Financial Standing: Post-secondary education can be expensive, but working in a co-op can help make it more manageable. Whether you’re working while you study in a part-time program or alternating semesters, you’ll be earning money that can go towards tuition, textbooks, student housing, and more.
- You’ll Grow Your Personal Network: Co-op work terms also give you opportunities to build your personal and professional network. You’ll be surrounded by like-minded people who could become friends or future colleagues!
Image source: Canva
Gain Valuable Co-op Experience While You Learn
So, what is a co-op program? It’s more than just a means to earn money while you study—it’s an academic opportunity that will elevate your employability, helping you stand out in a competitive job market!
At ILAC International College, our co-op advisors offer support to each student by connecting them with the right employers. No matter what program you’re taking, we’ll help you find a co-op placement that sets you up for long-term success.
Learn more about our programs by contacting an advisor today!