Build strong job search and career planning skills to boost your employability, whether you're preparing for Co-op or looking to improve your overall career readiness.
COOP 1101 is a 1-credit, 6-week course that is now open to all KPU students. It introduces key professional skills and helps you build a strong foundation in job readiness, career exploration, and communication. This course is the first required step for students planning to enter the Co-operative Education (Co-op) program, but it's also a great option for students who want to improve their job search and workplace skills.
Seats for COOP 1101 are available on a first-come, first-served basis during the registration period.
What You’ll Learn in COOP 1101
- How to write professional resumes and cover letters
- Interview strategies and tips for success
- Career exploration and goal setting
- Professional communication and workplace expectations
- Networking strategies and the job search process
You’ll walk away with practical tools that can be applied to part-time jobs, Co-op jobs, internships, volunteer roles, and future careers.
Why Take COOP 1101?
For All Students
Whether you're looking for part-time work, internships, or preparing for your future career, this course helps you:
- Build practical, career-ready skills like resume writing, interview prep, and job search strategies
- Explore career options through guided activities in personal branding and goal setting
- Learn how to communicate professionally and network confidently
For Students Planning to Join Co-op
COOP 1101 is your first step toward becoming eligible for Co-op job postings and future work terms. In this course, you will:
- Lay the foundation for your transition from the classroom to the workplace
- Develop job search tools and habits that will support your success in securing Co-op placements
- Gain insights into the Co-op process, expectations, and timelines so you can confidently plan ahead
What Happens After COOP 1101?
After completing the course, your next steps depend on your goals:
Joining the Co-op Program?
Great! COOP 1101 is your first step. While taking COOP 1101, be sure to complete the steps below by the Co-op Requirements Deadline on the Dates & Deadlines page
What to Do Right Away:
- Be enrolled in a program with a Co-op option
- Apply to Co-op
- Declare your program (if currently listed in My Action Plan (MAP) or Online Self-Service (OSS) as "Undeclared/intended")
What to Do During COOP 1101:
- Pass the course and get your COOP 1101 instructor's permission to access Co-op jobs
- Submit the Co-op Student Agreement Form
- Complete the Co-op Student Seeking Survey
- Apply for the Co-op work permit/submit a valid Co-op work permit (international students only)
Ongoing Requirements
- Meet your program's GPA requirement
- Have enough time left in your program to complete your work term(s) and finish on a study term
What Happens Next?
After COOP 1101 ends, the Co-op team will review your progress through the Co-op Requirements Review. If you’ve met all the requirements, we’ll add the Co-op option to your student record and you’ll be able to start applying for Co-op jobs in Career Connection.
Not in a Co-op Program?
Even if your program doesn’t have a Co-op option or you’re not planning to join Co-op, COOP 1101 is still a valuable course to take. It helps you develop practical job search skills, explore your career interests, and build confidence as you prepare for the job market.
Why You’re Not Eligible for Work Terms
Only students in Co-op eligible programs who meet all requirements can participate in Co-op work terms.
Other Ways to Gain Experience
- Career Advising & Job Search Help Career Development Services
- Business Internships Melville Business Strategy Internship Program
- Other WIL Programs Work-Integrated Learning at KPU
Can You Still Join Co-op Later?
Yes! If you transfer into a program that offers Co-op and meet the requirements, you can apply to join. If you’ve already completed COOP 1101, you may be able to continue from there.
Start Your Co-op Journey
Use the links below to stay on track and continue your path in the Co-op program
.