What do I need to qualify for co-op?
In order to be accepted into Co-op 221 you must have the following requirements:
• Completed 8 out of 10 first year courses or 80 % of first year courses in SETAS or completed semester 1 for SOT
• Achieved a grade of C or higher in ENGL 170/171 or COMM 170/171
• Have a cumulative G.P.A. or 2.5 or higher for SOB, SETAS, and SOT programs. Degree programs must have a G.P.A. of 2.0 or higher.
Why should I take co-op?
Co-op gives you real-world, related work experience while you are a Centennial student, helps you decide what kind of job you will want as a grad, helps you pay for your college education and increases your chances of getting a good job (with a higher salary) as a grad!
Do I have to find my own job?
Most students (about 80% of those placed) will find work in a job advertised by the co-op office. The balance will find their own job. You are ultimately responsible for finding employment.
Am I guaranteed a job?
No! The job market for co-op is very competitive and you will have to work hard to secure employment.
What is a co-op job?
A co-op job is full-time work for a four month work term. You will do work related to your program of study as a paid employee of the company.
Do I have to qualify for co-op?
Yes! By the start of semester three you must meet certain academic criteria. These can be found in the Centennial full-time course calendar or in our Student Guide to Success.
What should I do to get ready for co-op?
Work hard at your studies. Make sure the co-op course (co-op-221) is on your semester three timetable.
What if I have other questions?
Visit our co-op staff in room C2-10 at the Progress Campus or call us at 416-289-5000, ext. 2524 or e-mail us at cooped@centennialcollege.ca.
What can I do if I don't get a co-op job?
If you aren't placed for a work term you may choose to:
- take the term off
- accept unrelated work for the four month period
- return to school to take more courses
Does a co-op job have to be full-time?
Yes! Usually 35 to 40 hours per week.
Can I find my own job?
Yes! If the job is full-time, provides work related to your major and is paid employment. Feel free to discuss prospects with our co-op staff.
If I don't like my co-op job what should I do?
Discuss your concerns with your supervisor or call our office.
Can I put off my work terms until the end of my program?
No! co-op work terms should alternate with study terms as you progress through your program.
Do I have to complete all three work terms?
Yes! All work terms must be completed to achieve a co-op diploma unless special permission is obtained from the co-op department. This does not apply to students in the applied degree or fast track programs.
Are co-op employers likely to hire co-op graduates?
Yes! Many of our co-op students get hired full-time by their co-op employer after graduation, and employers consider co-op an excellent way to attract and assess potential future employees.
Is it likely that I will be invited back for my next work term by my employer?
Yes! If you do a good job, most employers will be happy to have you return. Both of you will benefit from the added experience you will bring with you to your next work assignment. | 
