The Co-op Program

Stack of books

What is the LIS PhD Co-op Program?

The Co-operative Work/Study Program formally integrates a student's academic study with paid work experience, allowing students to participate in one or two work terms before completing their final academic term of the PhD program.

Why do co-op as a PhD student?

Co-op placements allow students to gain valuable professional experience in librarianship and information management. Full-time, paid positions allow you to build practical skills and network with others in the industry.

Scope of the program

Work terms last a minimum of fourteen weeks, a period which corresponds to the academic term. Co-op work terms do not reduce the number of courses a student must take to complete the PhD program and accordingly extend the time required to complete the academic program. For PhD students, the timing of the Co-op terms is flexible but must take account of the maximum registration period.

Most co-op positions are outside the London area, generally in Ottawa and Toronto, though positions have ranged as far afield as the Northwest Territories and Newfoundland. The number of places in the Co-op program depends on the number of positions made available by cooperating libraries and other organizations. Both public and private sector organizations participate.

Participation criteria

Current students must have at least a 78% average in their courses, and must not have any outstanding incomplete academic requirements. Those applying for a second Co-op term must have completed their first Co-op term successfully. Participation in co-op is not guaranteed - students must meet the grade requirements and demonstrate professional readiness to be accepted into the program.