Find up-to-date information on the Professional Experience Year (PEY) Co-op Program and how to register.
Work experience is integral to a complete engineering education. In fact, as a U of T Engineering student, you will be required to complete 600 work hours to be eligible for graduation (Practical Experience Requirement).
While many engineering jobs you work during the summer will satisfy that requirement, the Faculty’s Professional Experience Year (PEY) Co-Op Program will help you achieve these hours of work. The PEY Co-Op is a continuous 12-to-16-month paid work term that students begin during the summer after their third year. You also have the option to complete an additional 4-month summer co-op following second year, for a total of 16 to 20 months of paid work experience.
The PEY Co-op program is unique in that students work in industry or research for a longer period compared to many other co-op programs. The longer term means students take responsibility for larger projects and build closer connections with their colleagues. Because the work term is longer, EngSci PEY students earn an average of $53,000 annually. Many students get job offers from their PEY placements after graduation. On top of the amazing experiences and connections you will make during your work term, there are a lot of professional development activities provided to outgoing PEY students as they are applying for jobs. The Engineering Career Centre supports your transition into your PEY job by running mentorship events with industry alumni, hosting sessions to help you improve your resume, planning practice interviews, and more. The ECC helps you prepare for your PEY, but it also helps you make the most of your PEY while you’re working.