Co-op Education

Co-operative Education is a Ministry of Education-approved program that allows students to earn secondary school credits with practical experience in the workplace. Partnerships between educators and businesses, service-providers, non-profits, and other organizations provide students with training and work experience.

Students who are heading for university, college, apprenticeship or the workplace may enroll in co-op courses. They can apply two co-op credits towards their compulsory high school graduation requirements, with no limit on earning optional co-op credits. Co-op placements are arranged for students by their secondary school and must follow Ministry of Education policy and guidelines.

Key Benefits

With Co-operative Education courses, students have the opportunity to:

  • experience hands-on learning;

  • try out different career options;

  • secure a Registered Training Agreement (RTA) with their employer and become a registered apprentice;

  • enroll in the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program;

  • apply their classroom learning;

  • earn credits through workplace experience;

  • develop workplace skills and habits;

  • gain valuable work experience that will help build a résumé for postsecondary programs and future employment; and

  • network with local employers and potentially secure paid employment.

For more information on Co-operative Education, students should contact their school's Guidance or Co-op Department.

Additional Resources