More than 5,000 students engage in the University of Toronto Work Study program, offering paid on-campus positions in fall/winter and summer sessions. The program enables students from all stages and campuses to develop skills and explore career possibilities through work-integrated learning opportunities.
As of 2022-23, students now have the opportunity to choose between two program streams: work experience and research experience. Work experience focuses on workplace skills and knowledge, supervised by staff, faculty or librarians. Research experience allows students to contribute to faculty-led research projects, applying methodologies in specific fields.
The evolution of the Work Study program was led by Career Exploration & Education on behalf of tri-campus career services, Student Success, the Office of the Vice-Provost Innovations in Undergraduate Education (OVPIUE) and the University Registrar’s Office. Inspired by a 2018 program review, these program evolutions clarify pathways and aligns roles with students’ goals, academic experiences and career aspirations. Supported by consultations with the tri-campus community, this two-stream model enhances the program’s value, promoting student success and growth.