Co-operative Education

Co-op, What's the "Sco-op"?

Co-operative Education formally integrates academic studies with full-time, paid work experiences in related positions with host employer organizations. The name reflects the Co-operative relationship between the employer, student, and Kwantlen Polytechnic University.

What can Co-op do for me?

Develop resume, cover letter and interview skills along with communication and problem solving techniques that enable a student to become a stellar employee. Many students have never had the opportunity to apply for jobs in professional organizations. COOP 1101 prepares students to apply for jobs in their professional arena and to be successful in interviewing for those jobs.

Experience your academic program through relevant, paid career practice. Co-op students apply for and work in short term jobs in their field of study. They get a chance to experience first hand various careers available within their academic focus. Co-op students bring their experience from work terms back to the classroom where their real life Co-op experience adds relevance to academic theories.

Build lifelong relationships with employers, faculty, and other students. Co-op students stay connected with their employers, long after their work terms are complete. Our co-op employers strive to be mentors and create learning opportunities for students in their workplace. Co-op faculty will assist and mentor you to ensure that you have a great co-op experience. Co-op graduates stay connected with each other even after graduation.

Grow your confidence by landing a great job and starting your career. Students who continue through the various Co-op work terms build confidence with every new position. They are mentored by our Co-op Instructors and great employers and are given opportunities to network and grow as employees and learners beyond their academic studies.

Create advantages that non-co-op students won’t have. When you graduate as a Co-op student you will have the advantage of not only a solid understanding of your academic studies but also with the advantage of having put those theories into practice. We call this Work-Integrated Learning. You will also have made strong career connections with professionals in your field and have great references to draw from as you apply for positions in the career of your choice.

Succeed with future goals. Of course your success is dependent on you but Co-op can provide you with many opportunities to build a strong foundation for you to succeed in both your professional and academic future.