Co-op and Work Placements Abroad

If you’ve ever dreamed of getting work experience while exploring a new country, you should know there are lots of opportunities to do just that. Working abroad opens your mind to the way your field looks in different parts of the world and have an adventure at the same time.

Peter in Guatemala“Guatemala is a beautiful country to see, the road trips to the school and the hotel gave a look at scenery you can’t find in Canada. The community around the school was very welcoming and happy to have the new powered lighting. Installing the solar panel system in country was a great experience in learning how to work with lighting, wiring, and equipment.” – Peter

International co-op or work placements also give you valuable skills that go beyond your profession, including adaptability, communications skills and cultural sensitivity – in a globalized world, employers value that! Plus, they offer an opportunity to gain on-the-job experience, meet new people, build networking skills and make industry connections.

So, how do I find out about opportunities?

Co-op placements are for co-op programs only, and must follow the co-op office procedures. If you want to complete your mandatory work placement abroad, you should talk to your program coordinator or academic advisor – they can be good sources of information, and can confirm which placements qualify for credit (you must confirm with your coordinator that an opportunity abroad is acceptable for your program).

MyWorldAbroad
You can also browse My World Abroad – a resource with job boards, expert articles and travel tips that can show you where past students have gone.

*Please note that any links to external websites and/or non-Algonquin College information provided on this page are provided as a courtesy. They should not be construed as an endorsement by Algonquin College of the content or views of the linked materials.

I’ve found an international potential co-op or work placement destination – How do I apply?

Applying for co-op or work placement is easy!

  • Talk to your program coordinator to make sure the work placement you have found is approved for credit. Note: Be sure to follow the work placement procedures relevant to your program.
  • Visit our Steps to Apply page to get started.

What else do I need to know?

Be sure to visit the Register your Travel page to register your departure dates, destination and more (start early – you need to register your trip 60 days in advance). You also need to fill out a risk assessment form, and participate in an online pre-departure orientation.

You may also qualify for funding awards – click here to see what’s available and deadline dates.