Prospective Students

Established in 1981, the Faculty of Engineering Co-op program is one of the largest programs of its type in Canada. Co-operative education is defined by CEWIL (the governing body for co-op and work-integrated learning programs in Canada) as an education program that "consists of alternating academic terms and paid work terms… [that] provide experience in a workplace setting related to the student's field of study" (CEWIL, 2021).

The Faculty of Engineering Co-op program exists in all disciplines and comprises approximately 58% of all Engineering students after the common first year.

Over the years, the Faculty of Engineering Co-op program has helped tens of thousands of students gain real-world experiences that enabled them to fast-track their careers. Interested in seeing where University of Alberta Engineering Co-op students and alumni work? Check out the "Alumni" section of the University of Alberta's LinkedIn page and use "Engineering", "Co-op" and the discipline you're most interested in exploring as your filters. We can't wait to see where co-op takes you!

Why Choose Co-operative Education?

Develop relevant professional work experience

The total time on a co-op work term following the common first year is 20 months - which means that you will be spending just under 50% of your remaining degree in work terms! In addition, up to one year of your work experience can be used towards your Professional Engineering (P. Eng) designation - the work will be assessed by the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA, 2020)

Diversify skills and knowledge in your field

For most disciplines, you will be sequenced into five 4-month work terms - this means that you potentially have the opportunity to work in five different roles before moving into the workforce.

Expand your personal and professional network

Gaining valuable experience with professionals in the workplace will allow you to clarify career goals and increase your chance of getting hired post-graduation.

Use academic knowledge in real-world settings

Alternating between academic and work terms allows you to utilize your academic/theoretical knowledge in practical work settings - often leading to greater understanding in future coursework.

Earn $$$

Did we mention these are paid work terms? Money you make during your work term should help you offset tuition costs in future academic terms.

Ready to apply to the Co-op Program? Get a head start: see our Tips for Success.

_{Last Update: December 13, 2023}