Co-op in Politics

In Politics, having work experience upon graduation provides a distinct competitive advantage. Applying knowledge and skills learned in the classroom, students gain hands-on experience in their discipline. Co-op helps students determine their strengths and interests while exploring different work environments and test-driving potential careers. Employers from across Canada hire Co-op students to work on special projects and assist during peak periods while often evaluating them for future hire.

Co-op requires three work terms, two of which normally take place in the spring/summer and one is conducted during the regular academic year which means that graduation is usually delayed for one term. Students receive pay to offset costs during a co-op work term.

Each work term is considered an academic course and is noted on a student’s transcript with a Pass or Fail grade. Undergraduate students starting their first co-op work term during or after the summer of 2020 will receive 2 credit hours for each co-op course completed (up to a total of 6 credit hours, counting as two elective courses towards graduation requirements). Undergraduate students who have started their first co-op work term prior to the summer 2020 term, will receive 3 credit hours upon completion of their third co-op work term (counting as one elective course towards graduation requirements).

Students who are interested in completing the co-op option should meet with their academic adviser as soon as possible to discuss their professional goals and the type of placement as well as possible locations where they would prefer to gain experience. Once the initial meeting is complete, the student should arrange a further meeting with Politics Co-op Coordinator, Christina McRae, who can provide more detailed information about Acadia’s Co-op Program.

For information on Acadia's nationally accredited Co-op program visit the Acadia Co-operative Education Home Page.