Co-operative education combines traditional, in-class education with hands-on experience. Co-op students alternate study terms at Carleton with four, eight, 12 or 16-month work terms. There are two ways to enter the co-op program. Programs offering the co-op option allow students to apply directly from high school or CEGEP. Alternatively, students can apply to co-op during their first year of study at Carleton. Graduate students can apply to the co-op option once they have completed their first full-time term. Graduate Students must complete two four-month work terms in order to graduate with the co-operative education designation. Every effort is made to provide students with a number of suitable job postings they can apply to via the Co-op Program section of MyCareer. We strongly encourage students to also undertake their own self-directed job search outside the job posting system to increase your opportunity in securing a co-op position. It is the responsibility of the student to secure their own job. Your co-op coordinator is available to discuss job search options and avenues.

Co-operative education is the opportunity to get a head start on a career. Co-op work terms allow for the development of key employability skills, exploration of career options and graduation with tangible, workplace experience—giving students a competitive edge in the job market after graduation. The Ottawa region presents a diverse working community rich in opportunities. Carleton University students study in close proximity to an active high-tech community, several renowned research facilities, and many government operations. Carleton co-op students have completed work terms locally, across Canada, and around the world. Co-operative education can:

• Provide practical on-the-job experience;
• Allow for networking with a variety of industry professionals;
• Help earn money to help reduce student debt;
• Add significant value to a degree program
• Develop professional skills.

Students who successfully complete the specified number of co-op work term courses, in addition to the requirements of their academic program, receive a Co-operative Education designation on their degree. This special designation indicates to future employers that they have successfully demonstrated both strong academic performance, and real world experience and dedication. Successful co-op students graduate with 12 to 20 months of valuable, hands-on work experience.

Information for Co-op Students in Engineering

Students in Engineering who plan on completing their professional designation (P.Eng.) upon graduation may be eligible to count up to 12 months of work experience towards the 48 months necessary to obtain your license. To be eligible for consideration, you will be required to complete a Prof Engs of Ont Guide_for_PreGrad Experience for each work placement you complete. This form must be completed in addition to the other forms associated with co-op. More information can be found attached to the Record Form.

Apply to Co-op

If you did not apply or were not admitted to Carleton with the co-op option on your degree use the forms below:

• Undergraduate Application      ( Undergraduate Programs that offer a Co-op Option)
• Graduate Application      ( Graduate Programs that offer a Co-op Option)

Please note: Any student that has been admitted to Carleton with the co-op option does not need to reapply. They will be evaluated after their first year of study to ensure they have met all the continuation requirements. Students will be notified in July/August before their second year as to their next steps.