For over 100 years, UC’s cooperative-education (co-op) program has helped students graduate with a career already waiting for them.
The University of Cincinnati invented co-op more than 100 years ago and we continue to innovate all aspects of experience-based learning. Today, our approach to experience-based learning is embedded through the Bearcat Promise — our commitment to provide the people, tools, and experiences that ensure every Bearcat graduates on time with both a degree and a resume. This promise delivers true educational ROI: real-world experience, career readiness, and a lifelong advantage as a Bearcat.
For the University of Cincinnati, our return on investment lies in our co-op student outcomes. Every semester, UC students go to work — at Nike, at Google, at any one of the university’s 1,700-plus employer partners. Our co-op students not only earn an average of $11,220 per semester, they graduate with 12.2% lower student loan debt compared to peers at other schools. Almost all students (98%) are employed or continue their education at the time of graduation.
$94M
collective student co-op earnings
The University of Cincinnati is leading urban public universities into a new era of innovation and impact. We're engaging people and igniting ideas, ultimately transforming the world — one Bearcat at a time. UC by the numbers:
98%
employment or continuing education rate following graduation
Behind every dream is proof that it’s possible. Our numbers show how pathways, outcomes, and opportunities add up — giving you the confidence that your future is built on results.
1700+
co-op employee partners
$94M
in student co-op earnings
$11,220
avg student earnings per semester
Meet Keller
Biomedical Engineering Co-op
Kinetic Vision | Cincinnati, OH
December 10, 2025
The British Government announced the 43 American students who will receive Marshall Scholarships for 2026, including UC alumna Taylor Allgood. The new recipients will begin their graduate studies at leading universities in the United Kingdom next September.
December 10, 2025
A research paper on new technology being developed by a professor and students at the University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College is being highlighted as the editor’s pick in a prominent physics journal.
December 10, 2025
Discover the inspiring journey of Nick “Da” Barber Baynes, a Cincinnati entrepreneur and father of three, who returned to the University of Cincinnati after 13 years to complete his bachelor’s degree. Learn how he balanced business, family, and online learning to achieve his dream and motivate others to finish what they start.
