In many Waterloo programs, you can choose between co-op and the regular system of study. In the regular system of study, you'll be in school between September and April each year and have your summers off.
Whether you're in co-op or regular, you'll learn from top professors and develop valuable skills for your career.
Benefits of regular
Focus on school for eight months
You'll be in school for eight consecutive months in the regular system of study, instead of moving between school and work every four months as you would for co-op.
Get involved
With eight months of school at a time, you can really focus on your courses and get involved with student clubs, sports teams, volunteer work, research with a professor, or a part-time job.
A quicker path to graduation
Finish your degree in four years, instead of five years as in co-op. This means you can move more quickly into your career or further education.
Freedom to plan your summers
If you have a job that you return to each May to August or if you plan to travel or volunteer, the regular system may be ideal for you.
Find your ideal career
Career advisors can help you explore possible careers or further education. Hone your interview skills and résumé writing through practical workshops.
Career preparation certificate
Develop professional skills, explore career options, and learn to market yourself in the EDGE certificate exclusively for students not in co-op.
Study abroad
Satisfy your wanderlust and your degree requirements through 100+ exchange and study-abroad opportunities.
When are you in school?
| Year | September - December | January to April | May to August |
|---|---|---|---|
| First year | Study | Study | Off |
| Second year | Study | Study | Off |
| Third year | Study | Study | Off |
| Fourth year | Study | Study | Graduation! |
Learn more
From the Missing Manual
Visit our Missing Manual website for tips and advice from Waterloo students and staff. Topics include
Co-op vs regular: Finding the perfect path for you
Deciding whether to pursue co-op or not is an important decision to make before applying to Waterloo. Both co-op and regular stream (a degree without co-op) have a lot to offer!
How to gain experience if you're not in co-op
There’s no denying that co-op is an awesome way to gain experience in the workforce while getting your degree. But what other ways can you gain experience as a student?
What’s the difference between co-ops and internships?
Are internships and co-op the same thing? At surface level they seem like they are, they both provide you with work experience and give you the skills needed to build your career early on, but what’s the difference?