The Faculty of Social Sciences is launching three co-op program options as it builds on its commitment to work-integrated learning.

Following approval by the University Senate, the new co-op program options in Economics, Political Science and Work and Labour Studies are available for students choosing Level II programs in Spring 2023.

Co-op experiences provide students with a valuable work-based learning experience, an important focus for the faculty, said Jeremiah Hurley, dean of Social Sciences.

“The faculty’s work-integrated learning programs continue to go from strength to strength, building on the successful internship program by offering these exciting new co-op opportunities, which benefit students and employers alike,” he said.

The full-time, paid co-op experiences are typically four months long, and co-op students complete three work terms across the five-year program.

The co-op structure offers an alternating pattern of study terms and work terms, providing students the opportunity to apply the knowledge they gain from the classroom in the real world, then to bring real-world experience back into the classroom.

Selection is competitive, with 35 spaces available to students applying to Level II courses in Spring 2023.

Co-op options look to provide an experience that mirrors real-life employment, including an internal job board where employers post jobs.

One of the main benefits of co-op, aside from the real-world experience, is that students will graduate with a fleshed-out resume and armed with a strong professional network as they enter the workplace.

The co-op stream will also be listed on students’ degrees at graduation, and position details will be noted on their transcript.

Click here for more information about the new co-op options.