Work Integrated Learning
Co-op vs Internships: What's the difference?
In the Faculty of Social Sciences, how do these two options compare?
Co-op
- Co-op is currently available in three (3) Honours degree programs, specifically, Economics, Political Science, and Work & Labour Studies.
- Program options are limited-enrolment, and admission typically happens at the end of Level I.
- Three mandatory paid work terms must be completed to graduate.
Internships
- Students in any Social Sciences program, including those enrolled in combined programs or specializations, are eligible for internships.
- Internships are optional; they are available but not mandatory for completing a Social Sciences degree.
- Students in Level II, III, and IV can seek internship opportunities.
What are the similarities?
Co-op and Internships within the Faculty of Social Sciences have common key features:
- Include paid work opportunities averaging between $15.50 and $27.00 per hour.
- Offer a job-application-based employment search through McMaster’s OscarPlus system.
- Feature employment opportunities across various sectors, including government, private, and not-for-profit.
- In both cases, any paid opportunities will be added as a course record on your transcript alongside the corresponding work term information.
- These opportunities are supported by one or more career preparation course(s).
Frequently Asked Questions About Co-op & Internships
All co-op positions are full-time and last for four (4) months, aligning with McMaster’s standard academic terms.
Internship positions may vary in length, offering part-time or full-time opportunities lasting 4, 8, 12, or 16 months.
Yes, co-op programs are open to international students.
Upon admission to your co-op program, you will receive documentation to assist you in obtaining a valid co-op work permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Yes, internships are available to international students.
International students can typically full-time opportunities during the summer, depending on the details of their visa. However, due to visa restrictions, international students are generally limited to part-time opportunities during the regular academic year.
Co-op programs requires the completion of three (3) work terms, distributed throughout the program, creating an alternating ‘sequence’ with academic terms.
Internships are optional, allowing students the flexibility to apply for and complete zero, one, or multiple internships based on their preference.
Which one is right for me?
Co-op may be right for you if:
- You are a prospective student or Level I student;
- You are interested in Economics, Political Science, or Work & Labour Studies;
- You want to incorporate multiple work terms into your program requirements;
- You want to be eligible for a wider variety of ‘co-op student-only’ job postings;
- You want ‘Co-op’ to be included on your degree parchment upon graduation.
Internship exploration may be right for you if:
- You are a student of any level, including upper-level students;
- You are pursuing any Social Sciences degree program;
- You want the flexibility to pursue one, two, or no paid work placements.
Considering a Co-op program or Internship? Here's how to get started:
Co-op Co-op Info
Co-op applications occur towards the end of Level 1, aligning with the Level 2 program selection process.
To prepare for your application, assess the required prerequisite courses and enhance your resume by actively engaging in relevant activities, projects, or initiatives within your field of interest.
Additionally, seek practical experience through internships, part-time jobs, volunteering, or other relevant opportunities, focusing on activities that aid in the development of skills and expertise aligned with your career aspirations.
Internships Internship Info
Internship opportunities become available to students upon completing the prerequisite course, Career Preparation in the Social Sciences, which is open to students at Level 2 or higher. To initiate the internship process, enrol in this course at the earliest opportunity within your schedule.
Before applying, ensure you meet prerequisite course requirements and actively engage in relevant experiences such as volunteer work or extracurricular activities to strengthen your resume and demonstrate your commitment to your chosen field. This proactive approach enhances your competitiveness and increases your chances of success in the application process.
About Work-Integrated Learning
“Work-integrated learning (WIL) is a form of curricular experiential education that formally integrates a student’s academic studies with quality experiences within a workplace or practice setting” (Source: CEWIL Canada).
