Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine visits UC to learn more about success of co-op
UC founded co-op in 1906 and is ranked in the top 5 programs nationally
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine visited the University of Cincinnati Feb. 5 for a roundtable discussion on the benefits of work-based learning opportunities, otherwise known as cooperative education, or co-op. This is a key component of Governor DeWine's executive budget.
The Governor met with university leadership, including President Neville G. Pinto, PhD, students and regional employers to discuss UC’s co-op program. The co-op model was invented at UC more than 100 years ago and connects students with employers, providing an opportunity for them to gain firsthand experience with in-demand jobs as part of their education experience.
Students who participate in UC’s co-op program spend one semester studying on campus and the next semester working in their professional field, earning cash while they’re learning.
In the 2023-24 academic year, more than 8,300 students earned an estimated $88.8 million collectively through paid co-op experiences, according to self-reported data. That averages to nearly $10,700 per student per semester.
It’s an 18% increase in wages from the last reported co-op data.
“Co-ops are transformative for our students who apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world experiences,” said UC President Neville Pinto. “As an added bonus, earning while learning goes a long way toward easing the financial burden on students and families."
Jeremy Jarrett, Kinetic Vision CEO and UC alum, is a champion for UC's co-op program as a former co-op of the company himself. “I started here and took different assignments along the way,” Jarrett says. “I guess you could say my first co-op job got me to where I am as president.” Photo credit/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand.
Kinetic Vision, GE and Western & Southern were among the business partners represented around the table.
The Governor’s proposed executive budget requires all state colleges and universities to offer a dedicated work-based learning program.
“Work-based learning opportunities like co-ops, internship or externship programs are a win-win for students, colleges and employers,” said Governor DeWine. “Many of these roles are paid, giving students the chance to earn money while also getting the real-world experience that will prepare them to excel as they launch their career.”
Michelle Clare, dean of the College of Cooperative Education and Professional Studies, where the co-op program is housed, spoke to Fox 19, stating it's nice to see that the work being put into the program is recognized.
“We have a group of professionals that are really dedicated to early student development and workforce development so it means a lot that the state acknowledges that work and sees the value in it,” she said.
Read more about the Governor's plan.
Media coverage:
Beyond the Classroom
UC invented cooperative education more than 100 years ago, and we continue to innovate all aspects of experience-based learning, including internships, service learning, virtual co-ops, community projects and industry partnerships. Learn more.
Tags
- Impact
- 1819 Innovation Hub
- Experience-based Learning
- Student Experience
- Academic Excellence
- College of Cooperative Education and Professional Studies
- In The News
- College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning
- President's Office
- Lindner College of Business
- Admissions
- Next Lives Here
- College of Engineering and Applied Science
Related Stories
Can ChatGPT help holiday shoppers?
December 5, 2025
Holiday shopping can be difficult. That’s why WLWT turned to Lindner College of Business professor Sachin Modi for insights on if large language models like ChatGPT can be helpful in finding more tailored gifts for loved ones.
Reesë Tuttle is going to change the world
December 5, 2025
Reesë Tuttle earned five college degrees before graduating high school, but the University of Cincinnati's School of Information Technology provided her the opportunity to have a traditional college experience — even if just for the year it took her to complete her second bachelor's degree. She shares why she decided to pursue a bachelor of science in information technology (BSIT) at UC, as well as how her new startup, a security training platform, was developed with the ultimate goal of saving lives.
How to write a standout cover letter (step-by-step guide for students)
Student Experience
Learn how to write a standout cover letter for internships, co-ops and jobs. UC experts share tips, templates, examples and formatting best practices.