Biological Engineering Co-op Student Information
About The Program
Biological Engineering students combine their knowledge of life sciences with engineering principles to design and control biological processes and systems. You work independently, and in multi-disciplinary teams, with the aim of enriching lives and maintaining a sustainable environment. You will learn the foundations and build on the skills necessary to positively impact industrial process design and quality control in the agricultural, environmental, food and pharmaceutical sectors. As a biological engineering student, you will have the option to specialize your degree through elective courses in the areas of bioprocessing, biological and environmental waste management, human factors and food engineering.
Why Co-op?
As a co-op student, you will gain relevant work experience, build professional networks, and develop essential interpersonal skills needed to succeed in the workplace, all while getting paid and earning your university degree. Guelph’s co-op program is unique due to the exceptional level of support provided throughout the co-op experience. Students will complete a comprehensive course preparing them for the co-op employment process, and will receive guidance from a knowledgeable team of staff dedicated to their development and success.
Course Sequencing
Co-op schedule for students who start their degree in Fall 2025 or earlier.
| YEAR | FALL | WINTER | SUMMER |
|---|---|---|---|
| ONE | Academic | Academic | Off |
| TWO | Academic | Academic | Work |
| THREE | Academic | Work | Work |
| FOUR | Academic | Academic | Work |
| FIVE | Work | Academic |
Co-op schedule for students who start their degree in Fall 2026 or later.
| YEAR | FALL | WINTER | SUMMER |
|---|---|---|---|
| ONE | Academic | Academic | Off |
| TWO | Academic | Academic | Work |
| THREE | Work | Academic | Academic |
| FOUR | Work | Work | Work |
| FIVE | Academic | Academic |
Effective Fall 2026, students are admitted directly to the co-op program.
A regular stream is available, and students not interested in co-op may request a transfer once they begin their program.
Sample Jobs
Continuous Improvement Analyst
This position gives you the opportunity to take responsibility for the management of a variety of projects and develop skills in critical thinking and presentation delivery. You will be involved in conducting product trials, evaluating equipment efficiencies, sampling, and consolidating data results.
Safety, Environment, and Security Technician Student
This Safety, Environment, and Security role consists of tracking energy use and implementing energy reduction projects, conducting weekly plant inspections, and facilitating health and safety programs. This includes monitoring all health and safety documentation, assisting with internal audits, and monitoring equipment.
Laboratory Assistant
This role consists of reviewing and processing laboratory drawings, attending project meetings, and developing technical reports to the Pathogen Regulation division. This includes researching biocontainment engineering literature and reviewing mechanical drawings and specifications.
Sample Employers*
- Environment and Climate Change Canada
- RWDI
- WSP
- Various Regional Municipalities and Conservation Authorities
*This shows a sample of recent co-op employers and will vary depending on employer recruitment needs. During a job search, students are encouraged to be actively engaged and are supported in establishing and maintaining their own personal contacts.
Salary Information
Students receive compensation from their employer for co-op work terms. The rate of pay will vary depending on a number of factors including the industry, the student’s program of study, and work term level. For your reference, a Co-operative Education Salary Guide is available on our website, which provides hourly rates (averages and ranges) for each degree program.
