Earth and Ocean Sciences

Students pursuing geology, geophysics, oceanography or Earth & Ocean Science specializations in the Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences can gain relevant co-op work experience in a wide range of Earth science disciplines. Examples of work settings include field, lab, office or research positions in exploration for new deposits of critical minerals like copper, lithium, gold and others; production settings in existing mines, processing plants or mine-site remediation; addressing coastal, mountain or other hazards; water management, hydrology or hydrogeology; marine biology, or physical oceanography; environmental assessment or evaluation for research or engineering projects; computing, programming or mathematical aspects of modeling climate, environmental and other processes; and many more. The multi-disciplinary nature of a degree from the Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences means there are many options for work that will set you up as a highly desirable individual for future career or academic opportunities. Note there are separate Co-op pages for students studying atmospheric sciences or environmental sciences.
Application Deadlines
Apply in Year | Application Deadline Date |
2 | Monday, February 5, 2024 |
3 | Tuesday, October 3, 2023 |
View Recorded Zoom Info Session (2022)
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, Ocean and Atmospheric 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
Success Stories
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.