PEY Co-op Overview
Professional Experience Year Co-op Program (PEY Co-op)
Hosted by the Engineering Career Centre, the Professional Experience Year Co-op Program (PEY Co-op) prepares students for the professional world starting in their first year of studies. The program supports students through a process of personal and career development, guiding them toward work opportunities that align with their individual career goals.
The PEY Co-op Program offers two work term opportunities:
- A Summer Co-op Work Term of three to four months after Year 2.
- A 12–16 Month Work Term following Year 3.
DURING YEAR 1
Introduction to PEY Co-op
In the first year, the program is designed to help students:
- Get oriented to the PEY Co-op Program and start connecting with the community.
- Start thinking about their career goals and objectives for PEY Co-op.
- Discover professional development opportunities, including those offered by U of T, the Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, and student organizations.
- Explore career and industry options.
DURING YEAR 2
Preparatory Program
The Preparatory Program consists of four modules spread over the fall and winter terms:
- Module 1: Prepare for Recruitment
- Module 2: Customize Your Applications
- Module 3: Transition to the Workplace
- Module 4: Get Work Term Support
These required modules include comprehensive learning materials and assignments designed to equip you with the essential information and skills you need to excel in the recruitment process and succeed during your work term(s). In addition, you'll gain access to a wealth of resources, service providers, and exclusive events and workshops to support you, ensuring you're well-prepared and confident.
Recruitment Cycle for Summer Work Term
Students interested in securing a Summer Co-op Work Term are expected to actively engage in the recruitment cycle. This includes attending employer information sessions in the fall and winter and proactively searching for and applying to jobs through the U of T Co-op Portal.
SUMMER FOLLOWING YEAR 2
Summer Co-op Work Term
To satisfy the requirements of the PEY Co-op Program, students must obtain a minimum of 12 consecutive months with a single employer through the 12–16 Month Work Term after Year 3.
The Summer Co-op Work Term, a three-to-four-month opportunity from May to August after Year 2, offers students an additional opportunity to gain real-world experience, build their professional networks, and engage with high-profile companies.
DURING YEAR 3
Recruitment Cycle for 12–16 Month Work Term
Once students have completed the Preparatory Program, they are eligible to participate in the recruitment cycle for the 12–16 month work term. This includes attending employer information sessions in the fall and winter and proactively searching for and applying to jobs through the U of T Co-op Portal.
FOLLOWING YEAR 3
12–16 Month Work Term
Also known as the Professional Experience Year (PEY) work term, this opportunity provides students with 12–16 months of full-time work experience, enabling students to work on meaningful projects, build their professional skills, and establish a solid reputation with an employer. With over 700 companies and at least 1500 paid positions posted annually, there is usually at least one position available per student. Generally, about 10% of students work outside of Canada. The work term starts between May and September and runs until May to August of the following year.
DURING YEAR 4
Return to School
Students return to school full-time and complete their degrees, enriched by the insights and experience gained from their work term(s).
They may choose to continue their involvement with the program by mentoring newer students as Peer Coaches.
Additional Activities throughout the Program
Employer information sessions and other events organized by the ECC are a great way for students to become familiar with companies in the industry.
Career development events and workshops cover various topics, including:
- Resume and cover letter workshops
- Mock interview events
- Networking sessions with industry professionals
- PEY Co-op student panels
The University of Toronto community also organizes career fairs and conferences, offering additional opportunities for students to engage with potential employers and enhance their professional network.