Your work term

Where you'll work

Most jobs are in the greater Toronto area or the Kitchener-Waterloo area.
If you find a job outside of Waterloo, Off-Campus Housing staff can help you find accommodation.
In some cities, Waterloo students organize events so that you can get to know other Waterloo students who are working in the same city.
You can add a global perspective to your résumé by finding an international co-op job. If you're a Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident, your work term can count toward the Global Experience Certificate.
If you're not living at home on a work term, part of your learning experience will be budgeting for costs such as rent or transportation.
You'll find lists of sample jobs on the Co-operative Education website.

Your earnings will depend on your program, how much experience you have, and the specific job. Salaries are typically higher for later work terms.
Details by faculty are posted on the Co-operative Education website.

During your work term, you'll complete more PD courses, which are designed to enhance your workplace skills and help you get the most out of your co-op experience.
Depending on your program, you'll also write an analytical work report.
A co-op field co-ordinator will check in with you during your work term to help with any questions you may have.

You'll receive an employer performance evaluation, which will be recorded on your co-op record.
You'll receive academic credit for each co-op term you successfully complete, and in some cases, you'll receive a grade based on your employer's evaluation and your work report, if applicable.

Co-operative Education and the Centre for Career Action have prepared a Co-op Student Reference Manual, which provides detailed information about the whole co-op process.
You'll also find more information on the Co-operative Education website for prospective students.