Trent University’s new Software Engineering Co-op B.Sc. program offers paid career experience together with a specialized curriculum to equip students with the essential technical competencies, industry expertise, and interpersonal skills to thrive in this in-demand field. 

As the global demand for software skills continues to grow and evolve, this new stand-alone degree program – the first undergraduate engineering degree at Trent – features extensive paid co-op opportunities, providing students with a streamlined pathway to the workforce, and equipping them with the relevant interpersonal and technical skills to succeed. 

The degree is one of only two Software Engineering programs at Ontario universities to be offered through a computer science department. The program differs from a traditional Bachelor of Engineering credential as it looks at the subject area through a cross-departmental lens. As a result, when Trent graduates enter the workforce, they are well trained in specialized Software Engineering skills and knowledge, as well as educated in complementary disciplines, like Computer Science and Information Systems.  

“While other programs typically start with generalized engineering courses, our program allows students to specialize from day one in targeted areas that both interest them, and they will benefit from in the job market,” says Dr. Richard Hurley, chair of the Computer Science Department at Trent. “By taking supplemental courses in fields like computer science, students build a strong knowledge base on the building blocks of the subject area, alongside technical expertise in typical tasks including software design, testing, and quality, and project development and management.” 

The co-op component of the degree gives students the opportunity to apply their skills in real-world scenarios, while gaining paid career experience and networking with valuable industry contacts. The first co-op term takes place after third year, giving students the comprehensive learning and time to hone their skills required to excel and impress potential future employers. Paid work terms span twelve to sixteen months, giving students a chance to learn and grow with their team on a longer-term scale than many other co-op programs. 

"Working in Software Engineering isn’t just programming, it's also providing expertise, communicating with clients, upholding ethical standards, and being a good team member,” says Dr. Omar Alam, associate professor of Software Engineering at Trent. “Here, our aim is to equip students with the highest quality technical skills and real-world application experience to ensure they are confident and professional leaders when they leave Trent. The unique combination of interdisciplinary learning and real-world application will equip Trent Software Engineering students with the robust and versatile toolkit needed to become well-rounded graduates and ideal candidates for careers in this growing field.”