Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine visits UC to learn more about success of co-op
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.
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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.
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