Understanding the Differences Between Co-ops and Internships

Why getting early, paid work experience matters, whether you choose co-op or an internship.

Getting career experience while you're still in school can give you a huge advantage after graduation. Two of the most common ways students gain this experience are co-op programs and internships.

You might be thinking, "What's the difference? Aren't they basically the same thing?" Not quite — while they share a lot in common, they're structured differently. Here's a breakdown to help you decide which might be the best fit for you.

What co-op and internships have in common

Both options help you:

• Gain hands-on experience before graduation
• Expand your professional network
• Strengthen your resumé
• Develop transferable skills

While internships and co-ops share these important benefits, they're structured a bit differently — each offering its own advantages depending on what you're looking for.

The key differences between co-op and internships

Here are the four biggest differences you'll find when you're deciding between a co-op or an internship:

1. Duration

Most co-op programs alternate between school and full-time work terms. At the University of Waterloo, students complete four to six co-op work terms depending on their program — the equivalent of about two years of paid experience. Internships, meanwhile, are usually shorter and take place once, often over the summer.

2. Income

While internships can be paid or unpaid, depending on the employer and field, co-ops are paid full-time positions. The average Waterloo co-op salary ranges from $9,600 to $22,800+ CAD per work term. As you build experience and skills throughout your education, your salary often increases.

3. Application process

Co-op puts responsibility in your hands. You'll apply, interview, and build connections just like in the real job market, helping you strengthen your professional skills early. At Waterloo, students use our job board to find a co-op placement, though students have the option to find jobs elsewhere, too. Internships are often arranged by your school or found independently.

4. Degree length

Because co-op terms are built into your academic schedule, they usually extend your degree. At Waterloo, co-op adds an additional year to your studies. Internships fit into summer breaks or elective terms, allowing you to graduate on a typical four-year timeline. Both timelines have their perks — co-op at Waterloo gives you more work experience overall, while internships let you finish your studies sooner.

Which is best for you: co-op or an internship?

Each opportunity offers differing advantages and there's no “right” answer here. If you want to graduate with up to two years of work experience, value earning income to help pay for your education and living expenses, co-op may be a good fit. If you'd prefer to keep your degree timeline to four years and are looking for a light commitment in terms of work experience (just one summer or unpaid), then an internship might be right for you.

Choose co-op at Waterloo

If co-op sounds like the right fit for you, you should consider Waterloo — the world's leading co-op program! With more than 8,000 active co-op employers in over 70 countries and the opportunity to work with top companies like KPMG, Google, Ontario Institute for Cancer Research and more — co-op at Waterloo can set you up for success.

Learn more about co-op at Waterloo here. Whether you choose co-op or an internship, the key is to start early, be curious, and take advantage of every opportunity to learn!