Introduction

The supervised co-op work term provides students with an opportunity to apply course learning in a public service setting. The work term may involve any public service activities or functions, such as policy analysis, policy development, program evaluation, communications, and so on. In addition, the co-op experience provides an understanding of the practical realities of public service and exposes students to collaborative working relationships.

Co-op preparation

Students must complete all coursework (except PS 622, Major Team Project) before starting their co-op job. The co-op is intended to be a paid, full-time work experience taking place over eight months (terms 3 and 4, May-December). Co-operative Education & Career Action (CECA) administers the co-operative education system for the University of Waterloo. CECA staff develop employment opportunities, which are then listed on the co-op job posting website, JobMine. Students must formally apply to positions on JobMine and attend interviews on-campus (at the Tatham Centre, the CECA building). In addition, MPS students are encouraged to search for government employment opportunities themselves, to be approved and facilitated by CECA staff.

Co-op work placements must:

enable the student to apply graduate-level competencies acquired in the MPS program;

provide the opportunity for the student to address a practical public service concern or area of interest;

advance the student’s knowledge and skills;

have an on-site supervisor available with the appropriate interest, education and experience to supervise, support and mentor the student; and

provide the necessary organizational environment and support.