What is co-op in college? How cooperative education works
A co-op program lets college students get paid work in their field while still in school
Co-op in college is a structured program where students alternate between academic coursework and paid, full-time work in their field of study, graduating with both a degree and real professional experience.
What is co-op in college? At the University of Cincinnati, we’re proud to say that cooperative education — better known as co-op — was invented right here. Today, UC is a national leader in cooperative work programs, offering all students the chance to gain real-world experience before graduation.
Understanding co-op: More than just a job
At UC, co-op stands for more than just work-study. It’s a unique, structured program that blends academic learning with paid work experience in your field of study. Through the combination of classroom and experiential learning, you’ll graduate with a diploma and a packed professional resume.
- Cooperative education model: Learn through meaningful, career-oriented, compensated workplace experiences
- Work-integrated learning: Apply what you learn in class to real-world projects
- Hands-on learning opportunities: Build skills employers want
- Career readiness: Step confidently into your future
Want to dive deeper into co-op at UC? Learn more.
Your Next Starts Now
How does UC’s co-op program work?
UC’s cooperative education program is coordinated by the College of Cooperative Education and Professional Studies (CCPS). Here’s how it works:
Preparation: You’ll meet with a dedicated co-op adviser to plan your path and prepare for the job search.
Opportunity: UC partners with top employers locally, nationally and globally to offer paid work experience related to your major.
Setting: Outside of the classroom you’ll learn on the job in your chosen field, earning a paycheck and building your network along the way.
Support: CCPS offers career tools, job fairs and events, and one-on-one support throughout your journey.
Get the full overview on Co-op and Career Support.
Click to read about this UC student's internship at TikTok.
Why choose co-op? The UC advantage
UC’s cooperative education model is one of the best in the country. Here’s why:
- Real-world experience for students: Graduate with up to a year and a half of professional experience
- Paid positions: Helping offset tuition and living costs
- Career readiness: Build skills, confidence and a network of professional contacts
- Connecting classroom to career: See how your studies translate into real impact
- Flexibility: Co-ops are available in a wide range of majors, from engineering and business to design and arts to IT and health sciences — and beyond
Read more and start exploring opportunities.
Click to learn more about this UC student's co-op at Toyota.
Student stories: Success through co-op
UC Bearcats consistently say that work-integrated learning made all the difference and gaining professional experience in college is a huge advantage for grads. Whether you’re landing your dream job after graduation or discovering new passions, co-op is your chance to shine.
Want to see co-op in action? Check out student testimonials and success stories.
Ready to start your co-op journey?
If you’re looking for hands-on learning opportunities and a way to connect classroom to career, UC’s co-op program is the answer. The College of Cooperative Education and Professional Studies is here to guide you every step of the way.
Learn more:
Questions? Contact the CCPS team for personalized advice.
Start your Bearcats journey — where learning meets real-world experience, and your future begins now!