Handshake Transition for Students

Starting January 2025, all new co-op positions will be available on Handshake, a modern career services platform trusted by universities and employers across the nation. The PAL system, which is currently in use for our Engineering, DAAP, and IT co-op programs, will be phased out by August 2025. However, if employers have existing recurring positions listed on PAL, students can continue to apply to these roles through the summer semester of 2025. Our CCPS teams will collaborate closely with employers throughout 2025 to ensure a smooth transition of all co-op positions to Handshake by August 8, 2025.

Why Handshake?

Many of you are already familiar with Handshake's user-friendly interface and powerful tools, which have been instrumental in your co-op position searches. We acknowledge that many students still depend on PAL, and this transition might seem daunting. Rest assured, our CCPS teams have meticulously planned for a smooth transition. You will receive program-specific guidance from your co-op faculty during classroom sessions or instructional meetings this Spring semester.

Get Started with Handshake

Eager to get a head start? If you are an enrolled UC student, a Handshake account has been created for you. To access your account:

1.    Visit the UC Handshake login pagehttps://uc.joinhandshake.com/

2.    Select “University of Cincinnati Login”

3.    Log in: Use your UC username and password

Enrolled students should NOT request an account, instead, activate your account by going to uc.joinhandshake.com, clicking the log in button, and entering your UC credentials.

Access the Getting Started with Handshake guide in Handshake's Student Help Center for additional information. This resource will guide you through creating a profile, uploading documents, and following employers.

Need Help?

Our Handshake Transition FAQs for Students aim to address common questions you might have. For additional inquiries or support with Handshake, students should contact our Handshake Support Team at HandshakeHelp@uc.edu. Feel free to also reach out to your co-op faculty or program advisors for further assistance.