Why you should consider a co-op program in college

If you're wondering, “What is cooperative education?” you're in the right place. UC pioneered co-op in 1906, and today we offer one of the nation’s most comprehensive and respected paid co-op programs.

Co-ops offer real-world experience for college students. Whether you're one of our prospective Bearcats or a current student exploring your options, here are seven key benefits of cooperative education that highlight why co-op in college is a smart move.

One of the most obvious college co-op benefits is the chance to work in your chosen field while you're still in school. Through UC’s co-op program, you’ll gain meaningful hands-on experience that aligns with your major, giving you a major head start on your career. 

Learn more about how co-op programs work at UC.

Compensation is a key benefit of co-op. Our paid co-op programs give you the opportunity to earn a competitive salary while learning on the job. This not only helps offset college costs but also reduces student debt after graduation.

Faculty in UC’s College of Cooperative Education and Professional Studies show you how to get a co-op job and make your education more affordable.

When you participate in a co-op, you graduate with up to 18 months of relevant work experience. This puts you ahead of your peers in the job market. For career support, UC offers workshops on co-op resume tips, how to prepare for a co-op interview and more.

Working in a real-world setting allows you to build connections that can lead to job offers, mentorships and industry insights. UC students receive full-time offers from their co-op employers. These connections are one of the strongest benefits of cooperative education and help significantly with career readiness.

Discover more about how co-op helps with career readiness.

Still figuring out what you want to do? Not sure if your major is the right fit? Co-op allows you to try out different roles and industries before committing to a career path.

Many UC students use co-op rotations to explore specialties within their field, ensuring they make informed choices after graduation. Think of it as a test-drive for your future.

UC students have explored many industries — see some co-op job examples and get inspired.

At UC, our co-ops are built into your curriculum, ensuring you stay on track for graduation while gaining professional experience.

Co-ops are more rigorous than internships and are designed to help students apply their classroom learning to real-world projects.

Compare co-op vs internship and choose the path that gives you the edge.

Every UC co-op student has access to a dedicated career coach and an entire support team to guide you through the process. From understanding co-op program requirements to landing your first job, we're with you every step of the way.

Learn more about co-op for engineering students, business majors, and more at UC.

UC students have secured co-op roles with Fortune 500 companies, startups and nonprofits across the globe, from mechanical engineers designing smart devices to marketing majors working with global brands.

Read success stories from co-op students and imagine what’s possible for you.

Explore our cooperative education programs and see how UC can help you graduate with more than a degree — you’ll graduate with experience, connections and confidence.