Mandatory and Optional Co-op
Co-op is a core part of many UC degrees, but options vary by college and major.
Lynn Pickering has traveled the world studying artificial intelligence. Photo/Provided.
Mandatory Co-op Programs
These programs require 2–5 full-time co-op terms (at least 35 hours/week for 15–18 weeks each) before graduation. You’ll complete an online course during each term focused on your academic and professional growth, and employers will evaluate your performance. Co-ops are paid, real-world roles where you handle entry-level professional tasks, applying classroom knowledge directly.
- College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP): All programs except horticulture, urban studies, and art history (e.g., architecture, communication design, fashion design, fine arts, games and animation, industrial design, interior design, urban planning).
- College of Engineering and Applied Science: All programs (e.g., aerospace, architectural, biomedical, chemical, civil, computer, construction management, cybersecurity, electrical, environmental, industrial and systems, mechanical engineering; electrical and mechanical engineering technology).
- School of Information Technology (in College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services): All programs (e.g., cybersecurity, information technology).
- Lindner College of Business: All programs (e.g., accounting, business analytics, economics, entrepreneurship, finance, industrial management, information systems, insurance and risk management, international business, marketing, operations management, real estate).
- DAAP: Architecture, design, community planning, landscape architecture.
- College of Engineering and Applied Science: All programs.
- School of Information Technology: Information technology.
Although employers aren’t required to offer full-time jobs post-graduation, strong performance often leads to offers—many students secure positions this way each year.
Optional Co-op Programs
These allow you to opt in for valuable experience without it being a degree requirement:
- College of Arts and Sciences: Co-op tracks are available for various humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences majors. Visit Optional Co-ops for Arts and Sciences to view the full list.
- College of Allied Health Sciences: Medical laboratory science.
- College of Nursing: Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
UC Co-op and Registered Apprenticeship
You know about UC co-op. But did you know that many UC co-ops qualify as U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeships? If you are in a co-op program, your position may qualify as both a UC co-op and a U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship.
Students who complete qualifying Registered Apprenticeships will earn a national, industry-recognized credential.
When you fill out the Experience Verification Form, you will be asked to designate an “occupation” for your Registered Apprenticeship. If you have questions about which occupation to select, your co-op faculty can help.
Students who complete 2,000 hours of work in a registered apprenticeship will qualify for the credential. This credential will be sent to you from the University of Cincinnati.
International Co-op
Combine UC's world-famous co-op model with international exposure. The International Co-op Program prepares you with language/culture courses, then launches you into a 6-8 month paid role abroad – earning while building cross-cultural skills valued by global employers.