2025-26 Application Deadline: October 26, 2025

The Social Science Co-op Program is designed for students registered at main campus in the Faculty of Social Science to participate in paid, career-related opportunities for course credit (see Academic Calendar) as early as Summer after second year.

Students can complete up to 4 work-terms during their time at Western. Each work-term is 4-months in duration; a single work-term grants students 0.5 credits toward their degree while anything over that earns them 1.0 credit.

All roles supported through the Social Science Co-op Program are paid and full-time (+32 hours per week) positions. Students may not enroll in other courses during their co-op without special permission.

Register for an information session now!

• Wednesday, October 1st at 4:30 pm in Weldon Community Room
• Tuesday, October 7th at 5:00 pm (Virtual) 

Eligibility :

• Full-time student declared in a Social Science Honours Specialization, Specialization, or Major at main campus;
• For a single, 4-month co-op term: at least year 2 of a four-year program at time of admission (earliest co-op start date is January of second year);
• For second 4-month co-op term and 8-16 month terms: year 3 of a four-year program and returning to studies post-co-op;
• In good standing with the University;
• A valid co-op work permit [international students only]

*Students registered with Accessible Education are considered full-time if enrolled in 40% of a full-time course load (i.e. 1.0 credit or more per term). Please advise the Co-op Team if you are registered with Accessible Education and have been approved for a reduced course load.

Why Participate?

• Earn a salary to help offset the cost of tuition
• Earn up to 1.0 academic credit toward your degree completion while gaining hands-on experience in the workplace
• Develop marketable skills employers are looking for in new recruits
• Clarify your career goals and objectives
• Build a network with employers and professionals in your field of interest
• Many employers view co-op work terms as an opportunity to assess candidates for future full-time positions after graduation
• See new places
• Demonstrate an early, ongoing commitment to professional development and lifelong learning