Explore careers, gain experience and earn money through North America's largest co-op program.
Our students are some of the best and brightest, and our employers know it! One thing is for sure: co-op at Waterloo exists because of YOU and your talent. Now that you're here, we're committed to helping you have the most positive co-op experience possible.
So, what's co-op like?
"When I came to Waterloo, I didn’t know what I wanted to do and I felt so behind. The Waterloo co-op program is really great to get an idea of different roles and using that knowledge can be useful to figure out exactly what you really enjoy doing."
“That's something that I'm very appreciative to have co-op for because we only have four-month time intervals in these positions to try out the job and the company, instead of being locked in for a year or more.”
"A valuable lesson I learned from this experience is to take pride in your major; passion transcends traditional expectations. Co-op has given me invaluable insights and practical learning that extend beyond my classroom learning."
Find your co-op job
There are many ways to find a co-op job! Many students start their search on WaterlooWorks, but there are other options to consider to help find a job that fits your goals and meets the requirement for co-op credit.
Supports and resources
Need help navigating co-op at Waterloo? Co-op can be challenging, but we're here for you every step of the way. Check out our online supports and if you have any questions you can connect with your co-op advisor.
Blog
How AI is reshaping HR: a new era of intelligent solutions
Linda Wang (she/her), a third-year Computer Science student, is the Co-op Student of the Year for the Faculty of Math! Her incredible work at the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) played a pivotal role in developing one of the company’s first generative AI (GenAI) use cases in human resources (HR).
Advancing space exploration: optimizing the next generation of space telescopes
Michelle Kao (she/her), a third-year Physics and Astronomy student, has been recognized as the Faculty of Science Co-op Student of the Year for her outstanding contributions at the National Research Council, Herzberg Astronomy and Astrophysics Research Centre. Michelle is also the 2024 winner of the Experiential & Work Integrated Learning Ontario (EWO) Co-op Student of the Year.
Innovating for a greener future: making an impact in corporate sustainability
Hoang Do (he/him), a third-year Environment and Business student, is the Faculty of Environment Co-op Student of the Year! Hoang received this award in recognition of his dedication and innovative work in advancing sustainability initiatives at Purolator.
News
Flipping the script: redefining success as a neurodivergent co-op student
By: Mary Lynne Bartlett
Many students choose Waterloo's co-op program for the experience and benefit of exploring different career paths and choices. However, for a neuro-divergent student, the range of options and choices might be overwhelming. How do you know which path and option(s) will work for you?
Changes coming to co-op hiring cycles this fall
Co-operative and Experiential Education
Get ready for a smoother and more flexible recruiting process.
Students share three secrets to being change makers in a successful co-op work term
By: Mary Lynne Bartlett (she/her)
At the recent Employer Impact Conference: The power of change makers, four Waterloo co-op students shared insights on what it meant to them to be change makers.