With the increasing focus on cooperation between industry and universities, co-op is more relevant than ever. The Faculty of Forestry is dedicated to work-based learning due to the numerous benefits co-op offers. From improved curricula, increased enrollment, enhanced visibility and reputation in the community to contributing to the development of well-qualified graduates; co-op enriches the educational landscape.
Hiring a co-op student allows the industry to recruit and retain bright, motivated and trained workers while influencing the curriculum that forms the future workforce. Bringing fresh perspectives and the latest techniques, co-op students benefit employers while filling short and long-term human resource needs.
Admission to Co-op
We accept students into the Faculty of Forestry Co-op Program each year in the fall. In addition to building a resume with relevant, career-related work experiences, you will have access to more resources, training workshops and experienced staff to help you succeed. Each year, co-op students work with conservation and forestry employers from BC, across Canada and around the world.
What is Co-op?
The Competitive Edge — Grounded in adult learning theories, co-operative education provides you with academic credit for self-directed learning experiences outside the classroom. By alternating academic terms with work terms, you will bridge the gap between theory and practice while earning your education. Students in the Program must maintain a minimum of a 68% grade point average, attend workshops to prepare for the workplace, and commit to five work terms in addition to regular studies.
As part of the largest Forestry program in the country – how will you distinguish yourself from the others when it comes time to find a full-time job? By joining the co-op, you can see your career future through real-world training with several employers. With the completion of each work term, you can update your resume with professional experiences, giving you a leg-up when applying for jobs after graduation. The key to this increased employability is networking with potential employers and the maturity gained through hands-on experience. The co-op will prepare you for the real world and increase your chances of finding desirable employment in your chosen field.
Co-op is your chance to build opportunities for your future. UBC will prepare you academically; the Faculty of Forestry Co-op program will prepare you practically. Co-op is here to work with you to find the challenging and relevant experiences you are looking for. Co-op students commit to completing five work terms in addition to their academic schedules, which means that you graduate with up to 20 months of significant work experience.
Why Should You Join Co-op?
As a co-op student you will:
- Follow the regular academic curriculum, however, your degree will be extended by one year to allow for the co-op work terms
- Gain up to 20 months of practical, paid forestry and conservation-related work experience
- Develop industry networks and mentoring opportunities with professionals
- Work in BC, across Canada, or around the world
- Enhance your resume, cover letter, job search, and interview skills
- Earn while you learn
- Enhance your employability for after graduation
- Be supported by our co-op Coordinators every step of the way
How Does Co-op Work?
The Faculty of Forestry Co-op Program works closely with local, national, and international employers to develop challenging, career-related work opportunities for you. Jobs are posted for co-op students and you apply for the ones that interest you. The Co-op Coordinators are here to review your resumes and cover letters and will support you at each step. Employers select the students they wish to interview and then hire for each co-op work term.
As a co-op student you will:
- Follow the regular academic curriculum, however, your degree will be extended by one year to allow for the co-op work terms.
- Commit to five work terms, each being four months in length.
- Complete a work term assignment for each work term.
- Be completely supported during each work term by your Co-op Coordinator
- Be supervised by your employers and treated as a regular employee.
- Be paid a competitive salary for the job you perform.
What Does Forestry Co-op Cost?
The Faculty of Forestry Co-op Program is an optional program to enhance your undergraduate experience and professional career development. Tuition fees are used to cover the costs related to the effective management, operation, and promotion of the program. Student fees are a small investment when compared to your larger reward.