Co-op preparation course
As a co-op student, you must complete a workplace preparation course, sometimes called Introduction to Professional Practice (IPP), before you start your first co-op work term.
You'll take this course in addition to your regular course load. This course will provide you with the information and tools to start planning and building a professional career, starting with successful co-op work terms.
Led by co-op coordinators, this course is offered a bit differently in each co-op program. All students complete a:
- résumé
- cover letter
- mock interview, either at a mock interview clinic or a related exercise
Other coursework varies by program, although mandatory co-op programs normally require more assignments.
After you've completed the IPP course, your co-op office will make you eligible to search and apply for co-op jobs in the co-op portal.
VMock
As part of your prep course, you'll learn how to use VMock, an artificial intelligence that provides résumé feedback.
Learning outcomes
When you complete the IPP, you'll:
- understand the co-op learning model, how to search for co-op jobs and how to successfully complete your co-op work terms
- understand competencies and why they're valuable
- produce a targeted résumé and cover letter to apply for a mock interview
- attend a mock interview and receive meaningful feedback
- find and use our work search and career preparation resources
- consider co-op in the broader context of professional career development and management
Course outline
Course content varies depending on the co-op program, but common topics include:
- the co-op process
- expectations and reflective practice
- using the Co-op and Career portal
- how to assess, express and develop your competencies
- deconstructing job postings
- writing professional résumés and cover letters
- how to ace your interviews
- building your professional network
- work term success
- understanding experiential education