Co-op in Waterloo Science

Putting science to work

At the University of Waterloo's Faculty of Science, opportunities for experiential learning are ingrained into our DNA. As the first university to offer co-op, Waterloo has developed partnerships across business and industry to enhance your undergraduate experience.

The Faculty of Science offers 14 undergraduate co-op programs across biology, chemistry, earth and environmental sciences, health, and more. As a Science co-op student, you’ll be learning from leading scientists in the classroom and be able to apply your knowledge to hands-on experiences during co-op work terms.

A group of science students posing with their arms crossed in white lab coats in a lab setting at the University of Waterloo.

When will my first co-op work term be?

For most Science students, co-op begins in the second term of the second year. You’ll alternate between four-month academic terms on campus and four-month paid work terms with employers, completing your degree in just under five years.

During your academic terms, you’ll balance coursework with co-op applications and interviews. By graduation, you can gain up to two years of professional work experience!

Curious how it all fits together? Take a look at your co-op and work study schedule by major.