WHY CO-OP?

Cooperative Education Program

The Cooperative Education Program at the Alberta School of Business provides students with the opportunity to gain 12-months of full-time work experience as a supplement to their academics.

General Statistics:

  • Co-op graduates consistently show a higher starting salary, around 5-10% more, than non Co-op graduates.

  • Co-op graduates are more likely to be employed, 5-10% more, upon graduation than students who do not choose Co-op.

  • Approximately 50% of Co-op students will receive a permanent full-time offer of employment from one of their placement.

Co-op allows students to gain valuable work experience that goes beyond what can be learned in the classroom.

  • Application of academic concepts in a real-world setting.

  • Exploration of different career paths and industries that don’t necessarily have to be aligned with your major. This allows you to decide if your current career goals are the right fit for you and a stronger understanding of the opportunities available.

Co-op allows you to test the waters early on in your professional journey - to try new things, to challenge yourself, and to gain a better understanding of the working world.

Co-op provides you with the opportunity to develop meaningful relationships and diversify your network.

  • During your placements, you will be exposed to a variety of individuals, each with their unique background and experiences, who will be a valuable support system.

  • These individuals provide both a source of learning and a valuable connection in your network.

Co-op allows for significant growth and development, both personally and professionally.

  • Gaining practical work experience prior to graduation provides students with the confidence and assurance needed to be a valuable employee.

  • Development of hard and soft skills necessary for professional success. This includes technical skills (softwares & applications), public speaking, or time management & organization.

Regardless of what your motivation may be for choosing the Cooperative Education Program, you will come out of it with a better understanding of yourself and the knowledge necessary for future employment and success!