Co-op and careers
Working as a Weed Science Research Assistant on the Saanich Peninsula during a co-op placement.
Changing the cameras that monitor wildlife while on a co-op placement in Kootenay National Park.
Working as an Emergency Management Geo-Technician in Canada's Emergency Watch and Response Centre during a co-op placement.
Studying volcanic debris in the Nazko Cone during a co-op placement as a Soil Scientist Research Assistant.
Co-operative Education
Co-opertive Education (or co-op) allows you to alternate your academic studies with paid, relevant work experience in your field of study. Work terms can take place in public and private sectors, with many opportunities based in local, provincial, or federal government departments. Coop is open to both undergraduate and graduate students.
The co-op program gives geography students the opportunity to use classroom skills such as research, analysis, communication, team building in a professional setting. Students can get a head start on their desired careers before they finish their degrees. Geography coop is the largest discipline within the social sciences coop, and offering placements in government, private and non-profit organizations.
Learn more about how geography students can benefit from coop.
Contact the Faculty of Social Sciences co-op office at sscoop@uvic.ca or at 250-721-8689.
Career Services
Geography explores the relationship between human and biophysical systems and deals with some of the most critical issues of our time, such as climate change, biodiversity conservation, sustainability of resource management systems, international development, and community and urban planning.
Our graduates work in fields like resource management, environmental consulting, urban planning, international development, and geographic information systems.
Graduates of geography are equipped with the set of skills necessary to become critical thinkers and doers, and to make an impact in their chosen career field.
UVic students and alumni can access UVic Career Services for one-on-one career support, as well as résumé, interview, and work search tools to help you navigate your career before and after graduation.
See what a degree in geography can do for your career.
What is co-op?
Co-operative education (co-op) is a learning strategy that lets you:
- Alternate your academic studies with paid, relevant work experience in your field of study
- Enrich your academic studies by drawing on practical, real-world experience from your work terms
- Develop competencies to excel in the workplace
Career-related support
Career Services can support you in every stage of your career development, through:
Employer Resources
Hiring a co-op student is easy, and our staff provides support along the way.
If you would like to find a student volunteer, hire a graduate or hire for a casual position, please email Career Services or call 250-721-6616.