Co-op Program
Optional Co-op Program
With 91心頭利���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 (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 three work terms in order to graduate from the Co-op program. Once the requirements are satisfied, the possibility of doing another two work terms 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