Earth and Ocean Sciences

Unlock the mystery on how the Earth works through studying Earth and Ocean Sciences. From the core to the atmosphere, from the distant genesis of our planet to current and future trends in global and environmental trends, Co-op students have the opportunity to gain relevant work experience in the major Earth science disciplines; where all the basic sciences are applied: biology, physics, chemistry, mathematics, computing, and instrumentation. Co-op work terms could include positions with a focus on marine biology, natural resources management and research.

Application Deadlines

Apply in Year Application Deadline Date
2 Thursday, March 4, 2021
3 Thursday, October 7, 2021

 

Apply to Science Co-op Now

We’ll run you through the application requirements, and then you’ll be prompted to create an account in SCOPE, the UBC Science Co-op Information System.

Application Requirements

  • Have a minimum average of around B- (68%)
  • Be a full-time UBC (Vancouver) student in good academic standing in mathematics, English and the sciences
  • Having a full-class driver’s license will increase chances of placement by a significant margin as quite a large portion of postings for Earth and Ocean Science Co-op require students to have a Class 5 driver’s license
  • Good communication skills, and a responsible, mature attitude
  • Demonstrated leadership, teamwork and time management
  • Demonstrated interest in your chosen field
  • Be flexible and willing to accept a work placement outside the Lower Mainland

Work-Term Schedules

Schedule A

Year Fall Winter Summer
1 Study Term 1 Study Term 2        -
2 Study Term 3 Study Term 4        -
3 Study Term 5 Work Term 1 Work Term 2
4 Study Term 6 Study Term 7 Work Term 3
5 WorkTerm 4 Study Term 8        -

The above schedule is highly recommended by the Co-op Program in order for students to complete their program within the shortest time frame. Alternate scheduling is available in consultation with your Co-op Coordinator.  

Schedule B

Year Fall Winter Summer
1 Study Term Study Term        -
2 Study Term Study Term        -
3 Study Term Study Term Work Term
4 Work Term Work Term Work Term
5 Study Term Study Term        -

Sample Jobs and Companies

Alberta Energy Regulator
Mining Authorizations Group This group is responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, orderly and environmentally responsible development of oil sands and coal mining, and upgrader projects. Within this group, the EPEA and Water Act team is responsible for assessing projects to ensure that they comply with the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act, the Water Act, and AER rules and directives. The Co-op student will work within a diverse team of engineers, geologists and science specialists to review and assess mining developments. Key responsibilities of the Co-op student include: assist in the review of mining applications and authorization requests; assist in the review of annual reports; and communicate with representatives from industry, government, and other stakeholders regarding applications associated with mining development as required.

Success Stories

Patrick Savage
Earth and Ocean Sciences
8 months @Agriculture & Agri-foods Canada; 8 months @UBC Centre for High-throughput Biology Patrick has had two diverse Co-op experiences: first in a research position (both lab and field) focusing on finding a suitable biological control agent for insect pests. In contrast, Patrick’s most recent Co-op position was as a bioinformatics research assistant as part of a multidisciplinary team, with a focus on neuroscience and the development of tools relating to large-scale and meta-analytical genomics. The diversity of Patrick’s Co-op research experience will be valuable because he intends to pursue graduate school after the completion of his undergrad degree.

 

Apply to Science Co-op Now

We’ll run you through the application requirements, and then you’ll be prompted to create an account in SCOPE, the UBC Science Co-op Information System.

Made a mistake on your application?

Just log into SCOPE and edit your application. For technical support contact science.coop@ubc.ca.

Explore Earth and Ocean Sciences: Visit the department site.