CIBC Navigator Program
Chart Your Own Path
The CIBC Navigator Program at the University of Lethbridge enhances co-operative education accessibility for students with disabilities (SWD). Through CIBC's support, the program provides comprehensive resources and accommodations to boost academic and professional success, welcoming all students registered with the University's Accommodated Learning Centre.
The program also builds strategic partnerships with employers to develop quality co-operative education placements, ensuring meaningful opportunities that benefit both students with disabilities and participating organizations while providing ongoing support throughout the placement process.
Program Benefits
Student Benefits
- Students participating in the CIBC Navigator Program actively engage in transformative learning experiences via their work-terms
- SWD have reported an increase in social and community connection, bringing a greater sense of belonging
- SWD's have also reported an increase in personal well-being through positive self-identity, sense of purpose and confidence
- Navigator students expressed increased engagement with academic and professional learning overall
- Navigator students have a better chance of gaining meaningful employement after graduation
- Students developed technical and work-ready skills, an understanding of how to effectively self-advocate, developed personal and professional confidence and employment competencies
Employer Benefits
- Access to a diverse talent pool of highly motivated students who bring unique perspectives and problem-solving approaches to your workplace
- Utilize a one-of-a-kind wage subsidy that helps relieve some of the financial stress of hiring and training a new student employee
- Comprehensive program support throughout the placement process, including guidance on workplace accommodations and best practices for inclusive employment
- Opportunity to enhance organizational diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives
Unsure of how to accomodate these students in a safe, effective manner? Click here to find some general best practices!

Notable Program Successes
- Since 2019, 17 students with disabilities have participated in Co-operative education or Work Integrated Learning experiences due to CIBC funding.
- In 2022, 2 students completed 3 semesters and received the Co-op designation on their degree
- 14 Employer Partners located in Lethbridge and Calgary have participated
“The CIBC Navigator co-op program truly opened my doors and connected me to valuable work experiences. Excellent support and care along with the Co-op coordinator will help you become job ready upon graduation.”
Venus Xiong (Fall 2022 CIBC Navigator Program Participant, Accounting Major & Public Health Minor)
How Do Students Access The Program?
Register with the ALC!
Are you a student registered with the Accessible Learning Centre (ALC) who identifies as having a disability? If so, you can have your work-integrated learning placement subsidized by the Navigator Program! If you are a SWD but have not registered as such with the Accessible Learning Centre, you can click the following link and begin the process of doing so, enabling you to benefit from the program.
Need More Help?
If you have further questions about whether you, as a student or employer, qualify for the CIBC Navigator Program and its funding, book an appointment with a WIL Instructor at the Career Bridge through MyExperience! (How-To Guide)
ADDITIONAL SUPPORTS
Entrepeneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP)
Praries Economic Development Canada understands that achieving entrepreneurial dreams can be challenging, especially when facing health conditions or barriers that may not be visible.
That’s why Community Futures Lethbridge Region offers the Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP), an innovative initiative dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities start and grow businesses. With its comprehensive support system, including loans, training, mentoring, and financial assistance, the program is here to guide an entrepreneur every step of the way.
University students participating in this program can record this experience as an applied study. If interested, learn about the university's applied studies program here