Co-op

Apply Your Learning in a Real-World Public Service Setting

Our supervised co-operative education work terms allow students to integrate classroom knowledge with practical public service experience. Engage in a variety of activities such as policy analysis, development, program evaluation, and communications. Experience the realities of public service collaboration and gain valuable insights into your future career. 

All coursework must be complete (excluding PS 622, Major Team Project) before starting co-op.

1. Get to know WaterlooWorks. You will be using WaterlooWorks to apply to positions, communicate with your co-op advisor, keep track of your interview schedule, and more.
2. Review important dates and deadlines. At the beginning of your term, be sure to check our important dates calendar for all deadlines related to applications, interviews and rank/match results, as well as the last day to find employment for your work term. 
3. Take note of your co-op advisor. You’ll be assigned to a co-op advisor who will support you through finding work.
4. Search for jobs. Think about what positions interest you and how you can highlight relevant skills on your resume and cover letter.
5. Apply for jobs. Make sure to apply by the application deadline!
6. Attend your interview(s). In-person interviews will be conducted in the Tatham Centre.
7. Rank your interviews. Your co-op advisor can help you with ranking strategies.
8. View your match results/accept your position. Congratulations on securing your position!

Interested in a job that's not on WaterlooWorks?

You are welcome and encouraged to apply to government opportunities with the support of Co-operative and Experiential Education staff. Just like when searching for jobs on WaterlooWorks, there are certain guidelines that you must follow in order to receive co-op credit. To be eligible for credit, all positions are assessed on a case-by-case basis to ensure they meet requirements.

If you receive an offer from an employer outside WaterlooWorks and you think the job meets our requirements, connect with your co-op advisor and follow the necessary steps to get the position approved.

Example positions

Co-op positions are designed to be a paid, full-time work experience for eight months (May-December). The average income for MPS students is $24,000.