UNIVERSITY OF GUELPH-HUMBER
Guelph-Humber Business program launches 2nd-year co-op stream in partnership with University of Guelph

Opportunities are expanding for University of Guelph-Humber (U of GH) Business Administration students. 

In partnership with the University of Guelph (U of G), the program has created a new pathway for students to be career-ready through an optional second-year co-op stream, with applications for 2026-2027 starting for first-year students later this academic year - in January 2026. Admission into the second-year co-op stream is based on academic performance.  

Co-operative Education is a form of experiential learning that allows students to merge academic theory with practical, real-world experience bridging the gap between classroom knowledge and career readiness.

"This is one of the ways we make sure our students are ready to hit the ground running in their careers," Business Chair Karey Rowe said. 

The co-op work terms will be full-time paid opportunities. This hands-on experience is something the University offers students in all programs. Though the co-op will add an additional year of study to complete the program, Rowe explained that rather than slowing down a student's future, the co-op would "accelerate their career path." 

Most Guelph-Humber Business students attend straight from high school, meaning they don't possess working experience. The co-op stream would allow students to gain that momentum during their undergraduate studies to broaden their horizons and assist them in obtaining a job in their desired field or pursuing an MBA program upon graduation.

"It would help students in terms of developing their skillsets They're getting real experience," Rowe said. "Students could gain employment out of this because they're going to get the training foundations of the program." 

Furthermore, the co-op stream is accredited, meaning U of GH and U of G vet the work term opportunities to ensure they're beneficial in giving students career-related work experience they need to be successful upon graduation. Participating students have the option to apply for opportunities through university partners or if they find something that piques their interest, they can apply as well (if it passes the vetting process).

Rowe said that the number of students being admitted in the co-op stream will likely grow in future years, but it will continue to be competitive. He believes this will serve as a learning experience for students, too, as the process mirrors that of the intense job market. 

As the Chair of the Business program, Rowe said he is "excited" for this option because he wants U of GH students to shine and to be developed into strong leaders. 

But this isn't the only means for students to achieve this; regardless of program pathway, all Business students have the chance to get placement experience in their fourth year. The co-op stream simply expands upon incorporating work experience into the program. 

To learn more about the University of Guelph-Humber's Business Administration program, click here.