Frequently asked questions

WatPD and Co-op work closely together, but our departments are separate. Both departments are part of the Co-operative and Experiential Education (CEE) portfolio alongside the Centre for Career Action (CCA), CEE Services, and WatCACE. The portfolio features several student-facing roles with different functions:

• WatPD staff (including teaching assistants and instructional support coordinators) operate the PD courses and EDGE.
• Co-op student advisors support students during their co-op work terms. 
• CCA career advisors offer career education services through workshops and appointments. They also provide pre-first work term support to co-op students.

Yes. Co-op students need to complete PD courses during each work term until their requirements are fulfilled, even if they haven't found employment. It's possible to complete all of the assessments in every PD course without being employed. Students can reflect on their academic experience or volunteer work instead of referencing a work experience.

No. There are no extra costs associated with taking PD courses, and WatPD isn't funded through the co-op fee or any other non-tuition fee.

Students are typically allowed to take one PD course per term, but there are a few situations in which exceptions are granted. 

Students in all faculties except Engineering are allowed to take two courses in a term if one of the courses is being repeated.

Students who think they may have an exceptional reason to take two PD courses should contact their academic advisor for possible permission.