Communication Co-op
Prospective Students
Co-op offers the opportunity to try out different areas within the communication industry. Through working with your Co-op Coordinators, you’ll be coached to develop job search tools and transition into the workplace. On the job, you’ll be paid by your employer while learning hands-on skills. Plan your degree to alternate between work terms and study terms, and graduate with at least one year of relevant work experience. Building your skills and creating a professional network will enhance your opportunities for landing a job post-graduation.
Application Requirements
School of Communication Students
- Pursuing or intending a major or minor in Communication.
- CMNS 110 and 130 completed or in progress.
- CMNS 120 completed prior to first work term*.
*If you were declared into CMNS in Fall 2021 or earlier, CMNS 120 is not required for Co-op.
Academic Requirements - UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS
- Registered as a full-time undergraduate student (minimum of 9 units)
- CGPA of 2.4 minimum
- Less than 80 units* - ideally between 24 and 70 units
*If you have more than 80 units (including any current units in progress), please complete the Semester Planner form, and email it to accoop@sfu.ca. If your plan is approved, you will be encouraged to apply to Communication Co-op.
Academic Requirements - GRADUATE STUDENTS
- Grad students will need approval from their grad supervisor and should book an appointment with a Co-op Coordinator to discuss their interest and plan by emailing accoop@sfu.ca.
Work Permits (International Students)
International students are required to obtain a valid Co-op work permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) before applying to SFU Co-op jobs. Once accepted into the Co-op program, you will be issued a letter to include in your work permit application. We recommend applying for the work permit as early as possible, as processing times can be lengthy.
Things to Consider
- Students applying to the program should commit to completing three or more work terms before graduation. Work terms should alternate with academic semesters, and the final semester before graduation should be an academic semester.
- Considering the requirements above, new students should join the Co-op program two semesters before their first work placement.
- Searching for a Co-op work term is similar to taking an extra course. Writing cover letters, preparing for interviews, and attending interviews can be time-consuming, but it is worthwile! We recommend taking a lighter course load during the semesters when you are looking for work.
- As the Co-op program can be competitive, it is a good idea to start developing applied skills and experience now. You can build skills in social media, event planning, writing, and design through volunteering, participating in SFU clubs, working part-time, engaging in creative projects, and following online tutorials.
- In the semester before your first co-op job search, you should complete the Co-op preparatory curriculum. See the New Students tab for further information.
If you have any questions at any point, please reach out to the Communication Co-op team. We’ll respond within ten business days to advise you of your acceptance to the program. Once accepted into the Co-op program, you must complete several steps to be fully approved.