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Co-operative Education
Carleton Co-op Works
Carleton’s co-op program is diverse and flexible. Co-op options are available in more than 100 programs, streams and concentrations at the undergraduate level and in a select group of programs at the graduate level.
Choosing to participate in the co-op option in your program means you will alternate your periods of study with four, eight, 12 or 16-month work terms with employers in your field. Typically, you will take an additional year of study to complete all academic and co-op program requirements, develop your work skills and acquire the relevant industry experience.
Admission to co-op
If the program you are interested in has a co-op option, you may apply for it at the same time as you are applying to the program. Your letter of admission will indicate if you have also been accepted into co-op. If you are not admitted to the co-op option of your degree upon entry to the program, you may apply for admission by the end of your first year of study. Deadlines may vary, depending on the degree program. To be eligible, you must meet Carleton University’s English language requirements. Please visit the Co-op Services website for more information on applying to co-op at Carleton.
Why Choose Carleton Co-op?
Co-operative education allows students to take theoretical concepts from the classroom and apply them to solving real-world problems in their field of study. These work opportunities allow students to develop the tangible skills that employers are looking for. The strong industry and government connections that we have built over the years have helped us to create many valuable work opportunities for our students. We also are fortunate to work with employers who are happy to come to our campus to offer students career advice and, for some, employment when they graduate.
Students interested in the co-op program have many resources available to them. Our co-op team will guide you through the co-op process from the time you apply to the time you finish your work terms. Co-op staff and faculty advisors are available to provide guidance and mentorship on the experiential learning process. COOP 1000, the required preparatory course, outlines the co-op program’s structure, regulations and expectations for participation. Course material will cover resumé and cover-letter writing, interview preparation, workplace safety and professional ethics, among other topics. This course also provides students with the opportunity to network with and learn from industry professionals in their field of study.
Learn more about why students choose Carleton co-op from these student video testimonials!
Other Work-Study Options
Co-op is just one option for you to gain real-world experience. Many programs include a work-study component, such as an internship, practicum, field placement, field course, apprenticeship or research placement. Visit the Programs section of our website for detailed information.