Want to gain work experience before you graduate and add extra value to your degree? Bachelor of Physical Education and Coaching (BPEC) students can now complete co-operative educational credits as part of their studies. You'll graduate with a special designation on your degree that indicates you've completed co-operative studies as part of your bachelor's degree in Physical Education and Coaching - plus gain paid work experience in the field.
What is Co-operative Education?
Co-operative Education integrates academic studies with related work experience. Here's how it works: after completing a portion of your degree or diploma program, you alternate semesters of classroom studies with semesters of paid, full-time employment in a job related to your studies.
Co-op for BPEC
After one semester of study in BPEC, you can choose to complete the co-operative education designation. You'll then take three nine-credit courses (work placements) between your second and fourth years of study in the BPEC program. The courses (COOP 1100, 2310, and 3510) are sequential and will count as credits toward your BPEC designation on your degree certificate.
Note: co-op courses are not substitutable for any academic credit courses or other degree requirements.
Co-op placements related to the BPEC degree vary greatly. You can find opportunities in:
- Recreation centres
- Summer camps
- Fitness centres
- Physiotherapy and kinesiology clinics
- Outdoor centres
- Coaching environments
- Non-profit organizations related to sport and physical activity
Benefits of Co-op
Gain experience in your field - get a feel for the field you've chosen before you graduate Earn money while you study - co-op work is paid work experience! Enhance the value of your degree - you'll earn a special designation on your graduating credential that indicates you've completed co-op courses Employment opportunities - you'll have a leg up on other grads, with experience already on your resume when you graduate.
How to apply
You can apply after you have completed your first semester of study in the BPEC Program. Planning for a co-op placement in your summer semester starts in January of that year. For more info about the application process, see Co-operative Education.