🔹 What is the Co-op Program and how can I apply? 🔹 Can I get paid work experience during my degree? 🔹 When do I apply for Co-op at Acadia? 🔹 What are the requirements for joining Co-op? 🔹 Does Co-op count toward my degree?

Acadia’s Co-operative Education (Co-op) Program offers students the chance to gain paid, full-time work experience in their field of study while earning academic credit. Undergraduate students typically apply in second year, and graduate students apply in the first semester of their program. Eligibility includes full-time enrollment, a minimum GPA of 2.5, and specific credit hour requirements. Applications open in August for undergraduates and in September for graduate students.

The Co-op Program at Acadia is a fantastic way to gain paid, full-time work experience in your field — while earning credit toward your degree.

Here’s how it works:

• 🧪 Co-op terms last about 4 months and usually happen after your first year

• 💼 You’ll work in a role related to your studies, build professional skills, and explore career options

• 🎓 You’ll earn academic credit and graduate with real-world experience on your resume

🗓️ When to apply:

• Undergraduate students: Apply in your second year (or earlier, depending on your program)

• Graduate students: Apply in September of your first year

• Application opens: August for undergrads, September for grads

• Apply online

📋 Minimum Requirements:

Undergraduate:

• ✅ Full-time student in a degree program that offers Co-op

• ✅ Minimum GPA of 2.5

• ✅ At least 24 credit hours completed

• 🚫 Not eligible if you’ve completed more than 75 credit hours — unless you’ve switched programs and have 45+ credits left in your new one

Graduate:

• ✅ Full-time student in a Co-op-eligible graduate program

• ✅ Minimum GPA of 2.5

• ✅ Apply in your first semester

Note: Students registered with Accessibility Services may be considered full-time with two courses per term.

📘 Helpful Definitions:

• Co-op Program: A structured academic option that includes paid work terms related to your field of study

• Credit hours: Units that measure your academic progress — most courses are worth 3 credit hours

• Full-time student: Typically enrolled in 3+ courses per term (or a thesis course for grad students)

📎 Suggested Links:

• How to Apply – Co-op Program 

• Co-op Program Overview 

• Contact Career Services – CEL 

📝 Special Notes:

• You don’t need to have a job lined up — CEL helps you find and apply for Co-op placements

• Co-op is available in select degree programs — check if your program offers it

• International students are welcome to apply and should confirm work eligibility with Acadia’s International Centre