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?
“Creating the first Natural Disaster Standard Operating Procedure for Shoppers Drug Mart was a unique experience. Wildfires were occurring in Canada during the co-op, so it was a time sensitive project."
“My biggest piece of advice, especially for students in the Faculty of Arts, is to advertise any and all experience you have that may be applicable to the job.”
“I encourage anybody who is thinking of doing an international co-op to embark on that journey because it's so amazing. You learn so much, both academically and personally."
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.
News
Darren Baine’s journey from co-op student to global changemaker
By: Katie Rieger
Leveraging co-op experiences to make an impact and empower young people.
Students gain valuable work experience in AI, digital and data projects with innovative roles with the Government of Canada
By: Jed Bick
The Government of Canada and the University of Waterloo are working together to enhance the data, digital and artificial intelligence talent pool within the public service.
Students gain teaching experience supporting Waterloo Computer Science
By: Cameron Stirrup (he/him)
The Cheriton School of Computer Science (CS) Instructional Support Group (ISG) is elevating the experiences of co-op students with a passion for teaching.
Blog
Turning rejection into motivation: how to stand out as a GBDA student
By: Lauren Ballard | 4.5 min read
Cathy Le (she/her) is a fourth-year Global Business and Digital Arts (GBDA) student. She explains her approach to standing out when it comes to co-op applications and how she deals with rejection.
Balancing academics, entrepreneurship and finding a career you love
By: Lauren Ballard | 7 min read
Jason Amri (he/him) is a fifth-year Computer Science and Business student. He discusses how he started a social venture called 3cycle and his experience having a co-op term in Dubai.
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.