Co-op Program
Optional Co-op Program
With TMU’s optional Biology, Biomedical Sciences and Chemistry co-op, you'll gain hands-on professional work experience integrated into your academic journey. Co-op adds an extra year to the regular, full-time program, but strengthens your resume before you graduate. Our co-op programs are accredited by CEWIL (external link) (Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning, Canada).
How Does Co-op Work?
- Admission requirements
- Program fees
- Work/study terms
- Hiring processes
- Salary/wages
Program Duration
Co-op adds one extra year to the regular, full-time program.
- Total program length: Five-years, full-time
- Work experience gained: 12–20 months over 3-5 work terms
When to Apply?
Unlike at most universities, there's no rush to decide right away. Explore your options, ease into your first year, and apply for co-op in May, after completing second semester.
Minimum Recommended GPA:
2.5-2.67
Application Process and Requirements
Students who have completed the first semester of the regular program must apply through the department for admission to the Co-operative program before the end of the first year. Enrolment in the Co-op program is limited. Admission will be based on a portfolio which includes the student's grade point average, a resume and a statement of intent. Screening interviews may also be required. The Career, Co-op & Student Success Centre does not guarantee placements but provides resources to help students find placements.
Students must successfully complete a minimum of four work terms in order to graduate from the Co-op program. Once the requirements are satisfied, the possibility of doing another work term is at the discretion of the Career & Co-op Centre, in consultation with the Faculty Advisor.
Job Search Support
The Career, Co-op & Student Success Centre can help you find suitable positions and provide career counselling. Guides, resources and advice are available:
- Personal branding, LinkedIn profiles, portfolios
- Job search toolkit, resumes, cover letters
- Interviewing, salary negotiations
- Job boards and on-campus opportunities
- Workshops on workplace skills, such as emotional intelligence and teamwork
Work Term Schedules
The co-op program involves a combination of work and study terms. Work terms may last for a single term, or with approval, may be extended to 8, 12 or 16 months of continuous employment. See the sample schedules below.
Real-World Placement Opportunities
Toronto is one of North America’s top hubs for human life sciences. With our downtown campus, you are within steps of potential employers in research institutes, clinics and industry. Check out where some of our co-op students have worked:
Biology
Sample roles:
- Analytical Research & Development Student
- Bacterial Media Co-op Student
- Industrial Hygiene Co-op Student
- Laboratory Technologist
- Business Development Associate
Sample Employers:
- Sanofi Pasteur
- City of Toronto
- Nitta Gelatin
- LANXESS Canada
- Bamford Produce
- Canadian Nuclear Laboratories
- Pinchin Ltd.
- PSC Biotech
Biomedical Science
Sample roles:
- Student Laboratory Assistant
- Micro & Viro Co-op Student
- Purification/Fermentation & Analytics Student
- Genetics & Development Co-op Student
- Microbiology Lab Co-op Student
Sample Employers:
- Public Health Ontario
- Sanofi Pasteur
- University Health Network
- St. Michael’s Hospital
- Nucro-Technics
- City of Toronto
- Environment & Climate Change Canada
- SQI Diagnostics
Chemistry
Sample roles:
- Chemical Analyst
- R&D Co-op Student
- Pharmaceutical Science & Technology Co-op Student
- Washing & Sterilizing Co-op Student
- Chemistry Laboratory Co-op Student
Sample Employers:
- Thermo Fisher Scientific
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
- Nanotek Materials
- Cystic Fibrosis Canada
- Protech Chemicals
- Sanofi Pasteur
- CNOOC
- LANXESS Canada