Co-op students in Science, Engineering and Computer Science will notice a new title for their co-op office this July.
The three programs are joining forces to form the Science, Information Technology and Engineering (SITE) Co-op Office. The merger aims to enhance the student learning experience across the 25 co-op disciplines it will serve.
鈥淭he co-op experience has proven its worth for students looking to gain an edge in today鈥檚 job market,鈥� explains Carolyn Watters, vice-president academic and provost. 鈥淲ith co-op enrollment up, we鈥檙e looking for new ways to attract employers while providing the same high-quality support for our students. By merging, the office can share best practices and collaborate on a new level.鈥�
Over the past two years, 937 students in these programs completed 1,699 work terms. To achieve this 94.7 per cent employment rate, the program advertised 5,857 jobs, processed 21,615 job applications and scheduled 4,115 interviews. Increased student demand has led to expanding the office 鈥� 384 students are on work terms this summer, compared to 239 in 2010.
While the office title change may be the most noticeable difference, computer science students will now have the option to use the existing LeMerchant Street Science Co-op Office for co-op services and job interviews. Current science co-op students may now access both offices and will notice several new work term procedures.
Anne-Marie Coolen, director of the merged offices, anticipates an increase in the quality and variety of job opportunities following the merger.
鈥淲e鈥檙e happy to assure current co-op students and employers that they can depend on the same services and programs that help make Dalhousie co-op students a top pick for employers,鈥� says Coolen. 鈥淢oving forward, we鈥檙e looking for ways to improve our services and continue to help our students succeed in their work terms and throughout their careers.鈥�
Although there are some new faces among co-op staff, student and employer contacts within the office remain unchanged. The SITE Co-op Office expects to unveil a new website in late 2013.
For information on Dalhousie鈥檚 Engineering and Computer Science Co-op programs, visit
For information on Dalhousie鈥檚 Science Co-op program, visit
Combined co鈥憃p office fosters fresh opportunities
Geoff Smith - July 23, 2013
Immersed in a co-op experience. (Provided photo)