U of T's Professional Experience Year Co-op Program is the largest program of its kind in Canada, and a key part of U of T's commitment to experiential learning. This optional program enables undergraduates who have completed their second or third year of study to build meaningful work experience, strengthen their professional networks and enhance their interpersonal and technical competencies. During this period, which lasts 12 to 16 consecutive months, students are full-time employees with a competitive salary.

Salary Statistics
2020-2021 PEY Co-op Salary Statistics breakdown by discipline.
Students
Why Choose PEY Co-op?
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It’s more than a foot in the door
You'll work full time for an employer of your choosing for 12 to 16 consecutive months after second or third year. You’ll apply your education to industry challenges while making meaningful professional contributions. Through PEY Co-op, you can focus on career development without needing to switch between work and school each semester.
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It's Paid
PEY Co-op students earn an average of approximately $50,000 annually, with top salaries reaching $90,000 in 12 months. You'll also position yourself perfectly to negotiate a post-graduation starting salary that is 15% higher than those without the same quality of experience.
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It’s optional
Nearly 70 per cent of third-year engineering students choose the PEY Co-op Program each year. You can pursue PEY Co-op after your second or third year of study.
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It fits seamlessly into your journey
PEY Co-op has proven to be an invaluable part of the student success journey. After working for 12 to 16 months, you’ll return to school with a new perspective on your career path. You will bring an enhanced perspective back to the classroom and explore your interests having had a robust marketplace experience. The 12-16 month work term allows the employer to involve the student in higher level work which often translates into higher salaries and enhanced work opportunities post-graduation.
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Top employers come to you
PEY Co-op companies represent every sector and include major global brands such as Apple, Tesla, Proctor & Gamble and IBM. Some employers only hire PEY Co-op students because it’s their best return on investment. PEY Co-op is also an excellent way for employers to preview and recruit future talent: many students return to school with a confirmed or tentative job offer.
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Choose from opportunities around the world
In 2017-18, 779 PEY Co-op students had access to 418 employers and 1,500 jobs worldwide. PEY Co-op employers range from local startups to large international companies across every sector. You will apply and interview for the positions you’re most interested in, and accept the job offer that best aligns with your goals.
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Graduate a step closer to being a professional engineer
You can apply 12 months of PEY Co-op experience toward acquiring your P.Eng. designation from Professional Engineers Ontario.
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Gain professional confidence before starting your job
We will work with you to ensure your resume and interview prep showcase your strengths before you begin applying for PEY Co-op positions. Career counselling and professional skills development are all important parts of the process. Workshops and guidance on everything from networking to negotiating salary will serve you as you apply for PEY Co-op positions and well beyond graduation.
How does it work?
Read our Student Guide to PEY Co-op & ESIP to learn about program requirements, deadlines and more.
Employers
Benefits of Hiring PEY Co-Op Students
The Engineering Career Centre provides employers with support in connecting with our students for opportunities within your organization.
It’s free
There are no fees when you register to our Career Portal, post jobs, and utilize the recruitment support available to you.
Tax credit letters
Ontario employers may be eligible for a co-operative education tax credit worth up to $3,000 in incentives. Check Canada Revenue Agency’s Co-operative Education Tax Credit for details. You can check if your company is eligible for the tax credit.
Recruitment support
We can provide resources to support you during the recruitment period, like job posting and interview scheduling services, as well as providing on-campus interview space.
One-on-one meetings
Our Program Coordinators are happy to discuss your specific recruitment strategies, and how the PEY Co-op program can support your needs.
How does it work?
Read our Employer Guide to PEY Co-op & ESIP to learn about deadlines and the program process.
PEY Co-op FAQs
Lean more about PEY Co-op. Visit our PEY Co-op Frequently Asked Questions page »