Co-op

At the University of Cincinnati, we know co-op. We ought to – we invented it in 1906, and we’ve been doing it well ever since.

Cooperative education (often shortened to “co-op”) began as an educational model in which a student alternates traditional academic semesters with semesters spent working in the field. Now, co-op has expanded to include an array of compensated career opportunities.

Building on our mandatory co-op programs in design, engineering, IT and business, we are creating flexible pathways to meaningful, career-oriented, compensated experiences for all UC students. We are expanding our reach to all corners of the university, meeting students where they are, and responding to the evolving needs of a global workforce.

What does this mean for me?

By integrating quality work experiences into your education, you can:

  • gain professional, major-related work experience while still a student
  • develop cross-cutting skills (also called transferable skills) that are valued by any employer, and learn how to talk about those skills confidently in an interview
  • evaluate potential career options
  • expand your professional network
  • enhance your resume
  • earn income

Where to go from here