Learn about the benefits of co-op and the co-op programs offered by Saskatchewan Polytechnic.

As a leading Polytechnic institute in Canada, Saskatchewan Polytechnic (Sask Polytech) has a strong track record in providing high-quality, industry-focused learning that leads to the successful career of its graduates. One of the ways students receive hands-on learning is by participating in co-op programs, where a work placement is part of the curriculum.

What is Co-operative Education or Co-op?

Co-operative Education is a paid work term available for students enrolled in programs with a co-op component. Students must be enrolled full-time to participate. It has clearly defined work terms that can last from 4 to 16 months.

• As summarized by WorkBC, Co-op has the following benefits for the students:Receive paid work and gain hands-on experience
• Immediately apply the classroom learning in an actual work setting
• Develop practical workplace skills and learn how to market their skills to employers
• Build a valuable network of contacts and professional references in the field
• Boost the chances of landing a great job after graduation
• Earn money to help with education and living costs

On the side of the employers, they will be able to gain fresh perspectives from co-op students, as well as reinforce their resources for an emerging organization's need.

Sask Polytech Co-op Programs for International Students

Some of the diploma programs that fall under the School of Business has a co-op option. On the other hand, mandatory co-op is common for a couple of IT and Engineering Technology-related diploma programs. You can click on these co-op programs below to learn about the requirements and tuition fees, along with other relevant information.

Co-op Option

• Business Accountancy Diploma
• Business Human Resources Diploma
• Business Management Diploma
• Business Marketing Diploma

Mandatory Co-op

• Business Information Systems Diploma
• Computer Engineering Technology Diploma
• Electrical Engineering Technology Diploma
• Engineering Design and Drafting Technology Diploma
• Geomatics and Surveying Engineering Technology Diploma
• Instrumentation Engineering Technology Diploma
• Civil Engineering Technology Diploma
• Environmental Engineering Technology Diploma

Sask Poly has a dedicated co-op coordinator for international students. The co-op coordinator works with international students who are in a co-op program to make sure that they get the support they need to be successful in their placement. Workshops, online learning tools, consultations with both students and industry partners are done to ensure a successful outcome of the co-op program.

Start your Career at Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan offers not just high standards in education, but also a high quality of life with great employment opportunities. The province has the lowest unemployment rate at only 6.4% in October 2020, which is below the national average of 8.9%.

Taking a program with a co-op component means you will have Canadian work experience recorded in your resume even before completing the diploma. This Canadian work experience is vital towards settling down in Canada and receiving a Permanent Residency through Saskatchewan Provincial nomination, one of the most attractive PR paths for international students. With the industry connections of Sask Polytech and the robust economic growth of the province, students will have a high success rate in securing meaningful work placement during their co-op term, and as they start their career after graduation.

Are you interested in one of Sask Polytech’s Co-op programs? Apply through Global Study Guide and let us help you on your international education journey.