How to Find Relevant Work Experience Without the CO-OP Program?

How do you gain work experience that is relevant to your program of study? Applying for the CO-OP Program is a very common answer that I’ve heard from many people. However, if you were not admitted to the CO-OP Program for some reason, or you are still on the waiting list, do not worry! There are many routes that can lead to success. Besides the CO-OP Program, there are other programs and internship opportunities that allow you to gain relevant work experience during your studies.

Connexions Program

This program is open to students who have completed the common core courses in the first two years of their program. In previous years, students had the opportunity to work at organizations such as Export Development Canada (EDC), Investors Group, Welch Group Consulting, Canada Post Corporation, and many more. These internships offered by the participating organizations are unpaid.

Each work term is one semester-long (12 weeks). Students are required to work a minimum of seven hours per week. By completing the Connexions Program, students will receive 3 ADM units for one of the fourth-year ADM elective courses (ADM 4904). Students are allowed to complete the program a second time with a different organization as another ADM elective course (ADM 4905). 

Work-study Program

The Work-study Program is open to all students who are taking at least three courses a semester. This program provides the opportunity for all students to work on-campus part time during the school year and full time during the summer. There is a variety of positions available across different faculties and services at the University of Ottawa such as customer service officer, assistant project officer, and junior information officer.

Telfer BCom Internship Program

This program is open to second- and third-year students who have completed the common core courses in the first two years of their program. Students will have the opportunity to gain work experience at different organizations such as the Department of National Defence (DND), Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC), and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). These organizations offer paid internship opportunities.

The work terms are 8-month long and, depending on the employer, may be split over two summers. By successfully completing the Telfer BCom Internship Program, students will receive 3 ADM units for one of the fourth-year ADM elective courses (ADM 4903).

Job postings

If you still could not find a position that matches your interest, check out the job postings on the Career Centre website! There are current positions available for all business students posted all year long. But be sure you keep an eye on the application deadlines.