Co-op student FAQ

• Must declare a major.
• Have completed 45 credit hours (students typically apply to the Co-op Program the first semester of their second year of study and are accepted into the program based on their December grades).
• Students in the Science Program must have at the time they apply and maintain, a minimum 2.5 CGPA and a 3.0 GPA in their major courses.
• Students in the Commerce Program must have at the time they apply a minimum 2.5 CGPA, and maintain a 2.7 GPA throughout their studies.
• Students in the Arts Program must have at the time they apply a minimum 2.7 CGPA and maintain a 2.7 GPA throughout their studies.

Once you have gone through the application process and have received your acceptance letter from the Co-operative Education Department you will be assigned to an Work-Integrated Learning Advisor (WILA). The role of the WILA is to assist you with all aspects of the job search process. As well, there will be training you are expected to attend.

No, there is no fee for joining the co-op program. However, there is a registration fee for each work term. This fee is paid when you secure a work term. Current co-op registration fees can be found at http://www.smu.ca/academics/undergraduate-tuition-and-fees.html

Academic terms are alternated with Co-op work terms; your first work term would normally be in the summer after your second year and then academic terms and work terms are alternated until you complete the requirements of the Co-op program. Work terms are not guaranteed. In some cases students are required to meet with their Co-op Academic Advisor. Most Co-op students spend an additional six months to one year to obtain their degree with Co-operative Education experience.

Students must complete one academic semester at Saint Mary’s University before they can be admitted to the Co-op Program. Application deadlines vary according to the semester during which you plan secure your first work term. It is possible to apply for the Co-op program before completing one academic semester however your application will only be processed after final grades for that semester are received. 

All International Students must apply to get a co-op work permit. Access to co-op jobs are not granted until students prove they have applied for the work permit. Once you are accepted into the program the co-op office will explain how to apply.