Integrated Sciences allows you to create your own degree where your interests cross the traditional discipline boundaries within science. Why not use Science Co-op to gain relevant and applied work experience across various disciplines? Your Co-op work terms could include opportunities such as clinical research, wet lab, biotechnology, software development and many more. You have already created your own degree; now it’s time to ensure success in your career by joining UBC Science Co-op while you complete your studies.
Application Deadlines
| Apply in Year | Application Deadline Date |
|---|---|
| 3 | Tuesday, October 1, 2024 |
Application requirements
For October 2024 applications, must be a third-year student enrolled in the Integrated Sciences major at UBC, currently in 3rd year of their Integrated Sciences degree
- Have a minimum cumulative average of B- (68%)
- Be a full-time UBC (Vancouver) student in good academic standing in mathematics, English and the sciences
- For October 2024 applicants: have at least 30 credits remaining of your graduation requirement after completion of current Fall 2024 (Sept-Dec. 2024) and Winter 2025 (Jan-Apr 2025) courses
- Demonstrate good communication skills, and a responsible, mature attitude
- Demonstrate leadership, teamwork and time management
- Demonstrate interest in your chosen field
- Be flexible and willing to accept a work placement outside the Lower Mainland
- Students who are in their 4th year of Integrated Sciences degree at time of application (and who were assigned 3rd year class standing during the Winter 2023-2024 term per Workday) are not eligible to apply
NOTE: Being eligible does not automatically guarantee your acceptance into the Co-op Program.
Work terms schedules
| Year | Fall | Winter | Summer |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Study Term 1 | Study Term 2 | - |
| 2 | Study Term 3 | Study Term 4 | - |
| 3 | Study Term 5 + Apply | Study Term 6 + Co-op Workshops | Work Term 1 |
| 4 | Work Term 2 | Work Term 3 | Work Term 4 |
| 5 | Study Term 7 | Study Term 8 + Graduate | - |
This highly recommended schedule enables students to complete their program within the shortest time frame. Alternate scheduling is available in consultation with your coordinator.
Sample Jobs and Companies
Terramera Inc.
Scientific Research Technician Terramera is a Bio/Ag Tech company developing high-performance sustainable alternatives to conventional chemical pesticides. Reporting to the Senior Scientist, the Scientific Research Technician Co-op will work as part of the employer’s research team. The Co-op student in this role will contribute to collaborative research and conduct experiments in a team-oriented technology discovery-focused environment. Key responsibilities of the Co-op student will include: accurately prepare a range of formulation types using standard laboratory scale equipment; perform and record detailed physical-chemical assessments of formulation characteristics in accordance with relevant study plans and standard operating procedures; carry out analysis accurately following strict methodologies; and document data in laboratory notebook and summarize results in study reports.
Success Stories
Sujin Park
Integrated Sciences
8 months @BC Cancer Agency; 8 months @BC Children’s Hospital Co-op provided Sujin with a wealth of diverse work experience not available in the classroom. Sixteen months of work experience has allowed Sujin to develop excellent clinical research skills in areas including hematologic diseases such as immune thrombocytopenia and eosinophilic syndromes, as well as pediatric orthopedics. This skill development will be very beneficial for Sujin because she plans to enter medical school after completion of her undergraduate degree.