Food and Agricultural Business Co-op Student Information
About The Program
Food is big business. It is Canada’s second largest industry, and in Ontario one in every five jobs is food related. In the Food & Agricultural Business program, you will acquire the key management skills needed to succeed in the multi-million-dollar agribusiness industry. You will explore all areas of management including accounting, economics, finance, marketing, production, organizational behaviour, policy planning and implementation.
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, including an in-class preparatory course, a personal connection with a Co-op Coordinator to assist you during the employment process, and access to senior student mentors.
Course Sequencing
| YEAR | FALL | WINTER | SUMMER |
|---|---|---|---|
| ONE | Academic | Academic | Off |
| TWO | Academic | Academic | Work |
| THREE | Work | Academic | Work |
| FOUR | Academic | Work | Work |
| FIVE | Academic | Academic |
Acquired Knowledge & Skills
Knowledge
Fundamental business skills and knowledge acquired in a Commerce degree with the additional advantage of applied knowledge of the agricultural sector.
Communication
Well-developed written and verbal communication and interpersonal competencies, advanced skills in presentation delivery, and exceptional leadership and organizational skills.
Application
Experience utilizing industry-specific technology and software.
Collaboration
Strong analytical and teamwork skills.
Sample Jobs
Assistant Account Manager
The main aspect of this role includes assisting with the management of valued clients through effective relationship management practices. You will also be collaborating with Agriculture Account Managers in contributing to strategic business priorities by successfully acquiring new clients, growing revenue and enhancing customer loyalty.
Oliseed Marketing Co-op Student
As an Oilseed Marketing Co-op Student, you will be supporting a fast-paced team. You will be involved in the cash trading of canola, canola meal, soybeans or soybean meal. In addition, you will be exposed to futures trading and specific research projects related to oilseed trading and markets.
Junior Project Analyst
Gain hands-on knowledge as to how the provincial government functions, including exposure to finance, program design and delivery, measurement and analysis, and individual ministry decision-making processes. This includes analyzing business proposals, reconciling financial data, and developing communications materials.
Additional Sample Jobs: Research Associate, Project Coordinator, Policy Assistant, Marketing Assistant, and more.
Sample Employers
Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Agribusiness (OMAFA)
- Scotiabank
- Bunge
- Kenna
*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.
