BUCS students have the opportunity to partake in both CS or Sauder Co-op programs. Below is a guide to both Co-op programs as a BUCS student. While BUCS is part of the Faculty of Commerce - the program enables you to also be part of the Department of Computer Science (within Faculty of Science).
💡 Tip: If you are stuck on a concept in a course, go to office hours! (You are paying for them anyways)
Don’t buy textbooks before your first class — they could be optional, and you might not need them to complete assignments. Instead, wait to see if they are required. Take advantage of mentorship programs like BUCS Coffee Chats to explore different career paths and learn about upper-year opportunities from experienced students. Also, make full use of the academic resources available to you, such as CMP review sessions, office hours, and other support services.
Join clubs early on — becoming a first-year representative is a great way to get involved in things you are passionate about and to meet like-minded people. Attending class regularly isn’t just good for academics; it’s also a great way to connect with others and build meaningful friendships that can enrich your experience at UBC. Studying with friends can make a big difference too — not only is it more effective, but it also helps you feel less alone in the challenges of university life.
Note: The Co-op program is best for international students since it is mandatory to obtain a work permit, but not 100% necessary for domestic students who want to work within Vancouver/Canada. It can be an excellent tool in helping land your first internship – but many domestic students also are able to secure positions externally (for summer) without the program.
💡 Tip: If you plan to live at UBC, try to get on year round residence ASAP