Co-operative Education
KPU is about experiential learning—where thought meets action. Apply for a Co-op program to alternate between study and paid work semesters, using your course knowledge and skills on the job.
Contact Us – We’re Here to Help!
Have questions about Co-op? Whether you're curious about the program or need help with your next steps, we're here for you.
Virtual Drop-In | Thursdays 12-1 pm
Join our weekly Co-op Virtual Drop-In every Thursday from 12:00–1:00 PM. No appointment needed!
Email Us
Email us at co-op@kpu.ca
Email Us
Visit Us In-Person
Visit us at the Career Development Centre
Surrey Campus – Maple Building, Room 135
Visit Us
Call Us
Call us at 604-599-2465
Call Us
Update for international students
As of April 1, 2026, you don’t need a co-op work permit for student work placements, such as co-ops or internships, as a post-secondary international student. For more information on COWP eligibility, check out IRCC’s webpage: Work as a co-op student or intern.
Find out more about the changes
The Co-operative Education program at KPU lets you combine academic learning with paid, full-time work experience. Whether you're exploring your career path or ready to gain hands-on industry skills, Co-op bridges the classroom with the workplace, so you graduate with more than just a credential. As a Co-op student, you alternate between terms in class and full-time work terms with an employer. These experiences Give you the chance to apply your classroom knowledge in meaningful ways, build confidence, and graduate with a résumé full of relevant experience.
KPU Co-op programs are accredited by Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning (CEWIL) Canada, the national association that sets the standard for Co-op programs in Canada. This means your work experience will meet recognized quality and competency standards — giving you added credibility with future employers.
*During the accreditation renewal period, KPU will seek accreditation for the following Co-op programs: Computer Aided Design and Drafting Diploma, Public Relations Diploma, Post Baccalaureate Diploma in Accounting, Bachelor of Science. Major in Health Science, Bachelor of Science, Major in Biology.
Why Join Co-op?
- Gain relevant work experience before graduation
- Get paid while building industry-specific skills
- Connect with employers and build your professional network
- Graduate with a Co-op designation on your credential and transcript
- Launch your career with confidence and clarity
New Co-op Program Update: COOP 1101 Now Open to All KPU Students
Want to build job search skills and explore your career options? COOP 1101 – Introduction to Professional and Career Readiness is now open to all KPU students, even if you're not in a Co-op program or your program doesn’t offer a Co-op option.
In just 6 weeks, you’ll learn how to:
- Write effective resumes and cover letters
- Prepare for interviews
- Explore career goals and job search strategies
- Build confidence in your professional communication
Whether you're planning to join Co-op or just want to feel more career-ready, this course is for you.
Looking to Join Co-op? Get Started Here
Attend an Info-Session
Learn how Co-op works, what’s new, and how to make the most of it.
Submit your Co-op Application
Ready to join Co-op? Apply now to start your eligibility review.
Register for COOP 1101
Now open to all students! Build job-ready skills while exploring career options.
Learn more about COOP 1101
Co-op for Internatinal Students
Everything you need to know about participating in KPU's Co-operative Education program as an international student.
Explore Co-op Programs
Whether you're in Business, Tech, Science, or Arts, Co-op can add valuable, paid work experience to your program.
Current Co-op Students
Start Seeking
Once you’ve completed COOP 1101 and met all eligibility requirements, you’ll be released to access Co-op job postings on Career Connection.
International Students- Co-op Requirements
New policy update: post-secondary international students no longer need a Co-op work permit. Find out what you need to submit and how to get started.
Learn More
Understand Your Work Term Requirements
Each Co-op work term is full-time (minimum 420 hours) and includes learning objectives, reflections, and an employer evaluation.
Explore Work Term Expectations
Student Testimonials
“I gained confidence in my abilities and started getting involved on campus.” — Gursimrat Gill, BBA Accounting
“It confirmed my passion for IT and set my goal to become a software engineer.” — Howard Chen, BIT.
“The experience gave me a deeper understanding of HR processes.” — Shamaela Pervez, BBA Human Resources
Hear from Co-op Students and Graduates
Events and News
See the latest Co-op events, info-sessions and news
Events
Check back later for upcoming events.
News
12 Feb Celebrating Excellence: 2025 Co-op Awards Recognize Outstanding Student Achievements Wed, Feb 12, 2025 On Tuesday, February 11, 2025, the Co-op Awards Celebration brought together students, faculty, and KPU Co-op staff to recognize and...
Co-op Employers
Partner with KPU Co-op to access talented, motivated students ready to contribute to your organization.
New to Hiring Co-op Students
Discover how the KPU Co-op program works and how your organization can benefit from hiring a student. Learn about eligibility, timelines, and how to get started.
Learn How to Hire a Co-op Student
Ready to Post a Co-op Job?
Already familiar with the process? Log in to Career Connection to post your role, connect with our Co-op team, and review student applications.
Post a Job on Career Connection
