The benefits are attractive, but co-op work terms aren't easy. Many students have little experience with the world of work and there's competition for placements in many programs.
That's why students who want to be eligible for co-op programs must complete between eight and 15 workshops on topics such as employment law, workplace expectations, and interview, resumé and job search skills.
"Preparing for a co-op term is difficult," cautions Kelly Meechan, co-op co-ordinator for Applied Science. "It's like adding a full-time course to an already full course load. Typically, students interview with employers during midterms and finals. They've got to prepare for work as well as handling the reality of school."
Depending on their program of study, co-op students complete four to five work terms lasting three or four months each. Two consecutive terms may be completed with a single employer.
Not all students are able to move away from the Lower Mainland, but where competition for placements is stiff, a willingness to relocate greatly increases a student's chances of getting one. Almost one in three Applied Science placements, and one in five Science placements, are outside B.C.
Challenges on the job site, though rare, are handled by the co-op supervisor. UBC is one of only a handful of post-secondary institutions where every placement is overseen by a faculty member.