Co-op in Community Development
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 Community Development, 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: The Red Door, Sports and Entertainment Atlantic, Horizons Community Development Associates Inc., Women's Centre of Calgary, The Flower Cart Group, & Sackville Rivers Association.
Testimonial
"I gained several skills as well as confidence through Acadia’s co-op program. I completed three work terms with different organizations, and each placement gave me insight into the workforce. Prior to enrolling in Acadia’s co-op program, I thought it would be hard to seek employment coming out of an undergrad degree. Co-op changed that for me, as the networks and connections I made have set me up for full-time work opportunities. I would recommend Acadia’s co-op program to every student that can enroll in it."
Adelaide Klassen
Bachelor of Community Development
(Co-op Option)