Engineering Co-operative Education
Benefits of a Co-op
There are numerous benefits to students who participate in co-op. Co-op can help students:
- Acquire work experience and on-the job training from industry professionals
- Develop a better sense of career options within the industry
- Relate academic knowledge and training to the industry
- Build a network of contacts in the industry and develop professional associations
- Assist with financing their education
- Apply feedback from employers and faculty on performance to improve skills and knowledge
- Improve employment options after graduation
Requirements and How to Apply
The co-op program is optional for students pursuing a Fundamentals of Engineering Certificate, meaning students are not required to enroll and participate in co-op in order to transfer with their Certificate in Engineering. However, there are significant benefits to those students who opt to get industry experience while they are pursuing their certificate.
Students interested in participating in co-op must enroll and complete ENGR 107. Students must complete ENGR 107 in order to pursue a co-op work term and maintain a B average in the 2 semesters prior to their work term.
Only one work term can be completed before transferring credits to UBC, SFU or UVic. Most students will complete their co-op work term in the summer, however there is the option to complete work-terms in the fall and/or spring.
Important Dates
ENGR 107 is offered once a year and begins in the fall semester (September). Students who would like to participate in co-op must register for ENGR 107 according to VIU’s registration deadlines and the course prerequisites.