Co-op Degree Programs

Interested in obtaining a B.Sc. Co-op degree in physics?  All of the information about our B.Sc. Co-op programs can be found right here!  To learn more about our B.Sc. programs (without Co-op) click here.

Introduction to Co-op

NOTE: We encourage all our graduates to consider applying for Professional Physicist Certification from the Canadian Association of Physicists.

Our department has several innovative co-op programs in Pure and Applied/Industrial Physics, in which the UofR and participating industrial employers together provide an education with hands-on experience in the real world. The programs in Applied/Industrial Physics combine the best of modern physics instruction with practical knowledge in related applied fields. The program in Pure Physics is largely intended for those who eventually wish to pursue a graduate degree in physics.

Since our co-op program was initiated in 1997, we have had a perfect job placement rate for all of our students. Work terms were almost evenly split between in-province and out-of-province placements (48%:52%). Employers have included cancer clinics, technology companies, universities and national labs. Both employers and students have expressed positive experiences with the program.

General information about Co-op Programs


Co-operative Education is an integrated approach to higher education which enables well-motivated students to follow a program that alternates academic terms on campus with work terms in suitable employment. Experience elsewhere has demonstrated enthusiastic acceptance of co-operative education programs in physics by students, employers, and university.

Co-op programs use a full trimester year (three 4-month semesters). Our programs are of a five-year duration. Employers are anticipated to be primarily in the high technology sector.

Students will apply for admission to the program at the end of their first year of study. The first work term follows the completion of four semesters of courses in subjects such as physics, mathematics and computer science. 

Co-op Program requirements and forms


Co-op work term report

Co-op work term evaluation