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
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.
Expanding your horizons: A grad student's guide on how to find your niche industry
By: Lauren Ballard | 5 min read
Bhagya Chandani (he/him) is a Master of Management Sciences student. He speaks about how he approached co-op when he already had more than three years of work experience across various industries.
Charged with purpose: reflections of an Electrical Engineering co-op student
By: Narayanan (Nana) Ramakrishnan | 4 min read
Narayanan (Nana) Ramakrishnan is a Master of a Engineering Co-op (MEng Co-op) student in Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE). He started the program in fall 2022 and is specializing in Sustainable Energy. As part of his degree, he completed a four-month co-op as an electrical engineering intern at Shell Canada in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta.
News
Three tips for success at the P4E Job Fair
By: Rachita Khetan (she/her)
I attended the P4E Job Fair at RIM Park. It was co-hosted hosted by the University of Guelph, the University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University and Conestoga College. There were 180 incredible employers at the fair and more than 3,000 students attended.
Co-operative and Experiential Education (CEE) and Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs (GSPA) partner in piloting new graduate co-op opportunities
By: Matthew King (he/him)
The innovative student support model is a key differentiator for enhanced work-integrated learning.
Spring 2023 co-op convocation spotlight
by: Isabella Deak
Waterloo's graduating Warriors reflect on their co-op journeys while embracing the future.