Co-op in Computer Science
Acadia University’s Co-op Program is nationally accredited and integrates study terms with paid, discipline-related work terms. Co-op students complete a minimum of three 4-month work terms or a 12 or 16-month internship. Students apply to Co-op at the beginning of their 2nd year, but 3rd year students are also welcome (depending on total credits completed). All Co-op students participate in mandatory professional development workshops and receive one-on-one coaching in resume and cover letter writing, interview preparation, and workplace professionalism. Students starting their first Co-op work term during or after the summer of 2020 will receive 2 credit hours for each Co-op course completed (up to a total of 6 credit hours, counting as two elective courses towards graduation requirements). Students who have started their first Co-op work term prior to the summer 2020 term, will receive 3 credit hours upon completion of their third Co-op work term (counting as one elective course towards graduation requirements).
In Computer Science, having work experience upon graduation provides a distinct competitive advantage. Applying knowledge and skills learned in the classroom, students gain hands-on experience in their discipline. Co-op helps students determine their strengths and interests while exploring different work environments and test-driving potential careers. Employers from across Canada hire Co-op students to work on special projects and assist during peak periods while often evaluating them for future hire.
Recent employers include: Simfront Simulation Systems, Progeny Genealogy Inc., Department of National Defence, Trip Ninja, Vmo Solutions, BlackBerry, Communications Security Establishment, Orenda Software Solutions, Royal Bank of Canada, and MOBIA Technology Innovations.
Testimonial
"Joining Acadia’s Co-op program gave me a glimpse of what it is like to work in a place that relates to my field of study. The whole experience, starting from brushing-up my resume to landing my first work term, was very enriching and educative. Working as a Software (Web) Developer in my co-op work terms helped me develop a strong interest towards learning about websites. This was all made possible by a great team of coordinators who guided me every step of the way. I would really recommend co-op to students like myself who would want to experience what it feels like to work in an environment that is related to your field of interest before graduation."
Noor Ahmed
Bachelor of Applied Computer Science
(Co-op Option)