The Arts Co-op Program

Claire Bentley

READING TIME: 3 MINUTES

Are you interested in gaining real-life and workplace experience while you complete your Bachelor of Arts? If so, the Arts Co-op program is the right fit for you. While completing co-op, arts students embark on three paid work terms with public, private, and non-profit organizations.

The Arts Co-op program offers students two options during their degree. The first option starts with a work term in the second semester of second year. This is followed by two additional work terms during the summers before third and fourth year. With this option, students graduate in the summer of their fourth year. The deadline to apply for this option is May 31, 2026.

The second option for co-op has students complete their work terms every summer, beginning the summer after their second year. This means that there is a final work term the summer after the student’s fourth year, and they graduate in the fall following their final summer work term. This alternative option application deadline is approaching on January 31, 2026.

Students typically apply during their second year of studies, but can apply at any time during their first two years.

To find co-op placements, there are two options. Andrea Kikuchi, Co-op and Experiential Learning Assistant, outlines these ways for students to find their positions. “For co-op placements, we post available positions and students apply and interview before selecting the position that best fits their goals and interests. Students also have the option to secure their own placements with organizations they’re particularly excited to work for.” This variety in placements allows students to explore their interests and find the position that will most benefit them.

(Andrea Kikuchi/Coop & Experiential Learning Assistant)

What are the benefits of co-op?

With co-op, students receive three paid work terms and twelve months of experience before they graduate. Through the first option, students can even complete a Bachelor of Arts with co-op in the same time frame as a regular Bachelor of Arts without co-op. This means that students can receive their degree having already acquired work experience in the typical four years. Furthermore, if students are interested in travelling during their degree, the Arts Co-op program offers them the opportunity to travel abroad during their work terms. While travelling students can gain skills, experience, and knowledge about both their respective field and the world.

Andrea Kikuchi emphasizes the impact that this co-op program has on students’ schooling and future careers. “We offer far more than just work experience in real-world environments. Our program also provides professional development opportunities and networking connections that enhance students’ resumes and build relationships crucial to their future careers.”

What are your responsibilities during a co-op term?

Before their work terms, students will outline the goals they wish to achieve during their placements. This allows them to track their progress and accomplishments as they work. Later, at the end of the term, students will complete a work term report that applies what they have learned during their courses to their work environment. This report provides students with the opportunity to think critically about what they have studied in class and apply it to what they have learned during their placement. Finally, students must attend check-in sessions with the Co-op Office to communicate progress and challenges. As students fulfill these responsibilities, they are guided by a co-op coordinator.

(Andrea Kikuchi/Coop & Experiential Learning Assistant)

Are you eligible?

To apply for co-op, you must be a full-time student at UNB Saint John and enrolled in a Bachelor of Arts program. Furthermore, you must have a minimum of 8 courses completed and a minimum GPA of 2.7 maintained after completing 60 credit hours. Finally, you must take a professional development session before your first work term, which is organized by the Co-op Office.