Biological Sciences Co-op
Want to graduate with paid work experience from a top employer already on your resume? A Science Co-op in biological sciences can get you going. Hone your skills and knowledge in real industry scenarios, explore different roles and workplaces in B.C. or abroad, and build your networks and references. Plus, a Science Co-op can help you find work during any semester, not just over the job-competitive summer months.
CO-OP QUICK FACTS
- Integrate work experience with your academic studies and get the opportunity to gain a year or more of paid work experience during your program
- Complete a minimum of three work terms and earn a Co-operative Education Designation with your Bachelor of Science degree
- Join the co-op program early in your studies for the most flexibility when scheduling courses and work terms
- Apply two terms in advance of your first intended work term (e.g. apply to co-op in Fall to prepare for a Summer work term the following year)
- Minimum CGPA to apply: 2.5
- During each work term, you are enrolled in the Co-op Practicum course and maintain your status as a full-time student
- Visit the co-op website for upcoming application deadlines
Example Biological Sciences Co-op Roles
- Junior Fish Culture Technician
- Wildlife Health Lab Technician
- Research Assistant Entomology
- Laboratory Support Technician
- Lab Based R&D
- Microbiology Co-op
- Integrated Pest Management Field Technician
- R&D Biologics Discovery
Biological Sciences Co-op Employers
Hear what biological sciences co-op students have to say…
Matthew Lemp
Freshwater Fisheries Society of B.C. (Summer 2024 and 2025) and B.C. Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship (Fall 2024)
In my first work term, I worked for the Freshwater Fisheries Society of B.C.. This was my first time living alone far from home and my time in Clearwater made me more confident in my abilities to be independent. I was nervous but it quickly went away after receiving any support I needed from my employers. I was taught a lot about how the hatchery and other freshwater fisheries operate through countless learning opportunities.
Kira Carson
Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) Regional Office of Environmental Coordination, Pacific Office (Summer 2025)
Co-op has not only helped me gain work experience in my field but also figure out what I want to do in the future. Working with Fisheries and Oceans Canada, I had the opportunity to experience a wide range of work, from riding in helicopters to conducting environmental sampling and delivering EMPs (Environmental Management Plans). Co-op helped me develop practical skills, build confidence, and better understand the type of work I want to pursue in the future. I would highly recommend Co-op to anyone who has the opportunity.
Emily Lucas
Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) (Summer 2025)
As a forensic identification assistant, my role was to locate, photograph and enhance fingerprints from crime scenes and collect swabs of surfaces that may contain DNA evidence. From the scenes that I led, I got to writer reports or assist specialists at a variety of interesting investigations.