Co-op Work Term Experience

Co-op work terms will provide students with an opportunity to build valuable connections, gain hands-on relevant experience to their program of study, explore diverse workplaces as a full-time paid employee, and graduate with a distinct career advantage.

The co-op work term process simulates a real-world recruitment process. Students must be actively applying to all suitable co-op jobs on the Co-op Job Board, job searching on their own, booking appointments with Co-op staff, attending their job interviews prepared, and responding to employers in a timely manner. The co-op work term process is competitive and dependent upon many factors including labour market conditions and the academic performance of a student.

Students can choose to explore the diverse jobs posted to the Co-op Job Board on the online Student Experience Portal or can choose to find their own co-op job and curate an experience that best suits their personal career goals, growth areas, and interests. If you choose to find your own work term, you will need to book an appointment with your Co-op Coordinator to ensure the position meets Trent’s co-op work term requirements (work term length, hours, compensation and evaluation). 

Students who are unable to obtain a suitable co-op opportunity in an upcoming work term are expected to continue with an academic study term. In the event that a co-op student is unable to complete three work terms yet otherwise fulfills all degree requirements, the student will be awarded an Honours degree without the Co-op designation. Students are encouraged to meet with their Co-op Coordinator each year to confirm they are meeting co-op requirements.