Co-op Program
“The co-op program is nothing short of excellent. I’ve developed interpersonal skills and gained valuable work experience in statistical analysis/business intelligence and programming in multiple languages. It’s been a great confidence booster for me.” - Paul Desroches, Financial Mathematics ‘20 (BSc)
Optional Co-op Program
Mathematics and Its Applications and Financial Mathematics both have optional co-op programs. Co-op adds one extra year, but gives you a big advantage. Get paid, learn professional skills and work in the real world before you graduate. It’s a great way to gain experience and make your resume stand out. 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: Up to 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: 3.0
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
With a campus in the heart of downtown Toronto, you can land co-op roles in the city's business and finance sectors. Our co-op students have worked for some of the following employers:
Banking
- TD Bank
- Scotiabank
- RBC
- CIBC
- BMO
Telecommunications
- Bell Canada
Government
- RCMP
- Canada Revenue Agency
- Workplace Safety & Insurance Board
Investments
- Fidelity Investments
- Questrade
Business & Technology
- Willis Towers Watson
- Symcor