Co-op education 101

Co-operative Education is the state-of-the-art in human resource development. Providing "hands on" experience, it takes learning beyond the limitations of the classroom and extends it into the working world by alternating periods of full-time study with periods of full-time productive employment in business, industry, and agencies. By applying theoretical concepts to practical and profitable use in the Canadian workplace, today's Co-op students have a greater opportunity for entrance into, and success in their chosen career fields.

The Co-operative Education program at Vancouver Island University began in 1989, but the concept was first introduced to North America over 80 years ago. Co-operative Education has been experiencing tremendous growth over the last ten years and, today, over 125 post-secondary institutions across Canada (22 institutions in British Columbia) now offer Co-op Education in a variety of faculties. This educational concept is very popular with students, as over 58,000 students are currently participating in Co-operative Education in Canada.

The goal of the Co-op program is to produce high-calibre graduates who are well prepared to assume productive careers. Employers, faculty, and Co-operative Education staff all contribute to this educational process. While students train and learn under this system, all three parties benefit from the collaborative effort.

Co-op Education offers full-time, paid, career-related employment to enhance your full-time study experience. Learn more at http://www.viu.ca/coop/