Rationale

Issue

Students should have access to meaningful, accessible, discrimination-free, and safe co-op opportunities. It is critical to support them throughout the recruitment, work, and post-work phases.

Our Research

  • Co-op Size and Success: Waterloo hosts Canada’s largest co-op program, linking over 26,000 students with 7,500+ employers globally.
  • Employment Rate: 96% of co-op graduates secure relevant employment within six months post-graduation.

  • Unequal Opportunities: Non-STEM students find fewer opportunities compared to their STEM counterparts.
  • Workplace Vulnerabilities: Students report discrimination and lack of support, particularly international students facing additional barriers.
  • Market Influence: Post-pandemic economic shifts and housing affordability significantly affect co-op placements.

  • Food Insecurity: 30-40% of students experience food insecurity (Canadian Food Studies Journal).
  • Discrimination in Hiring: International students face higher discrimination rates in workplace settings.

Our Stance

WUSA advocates for equitable co-op opportunities and robust support systems addressing the unique challenges faced by all students, especially international ones.

  1. Equitable Opportunities: Advocacy for equal access to co-op placements across all disciplines, challenging disparities particularly in STEM vs. Arts/Humanities.
  2. Legislative Protection: Support for inclusion of co-op students under the Employment Standards Act to ensure fair treatment and safety.
  3. International Support: Enhanced policies to improve work permit processes and reduce discriminatory practices.

Read the full Experiential Education – Co-op stance.

Student Resources

Campaigns

While there are no active campaigns at this time, we continue to work closely with our community, ensuring ongoing efforts and progress behind the scenes.