DAAP immerses students in real-world experiential education through 40 undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs across a wide range of creative disciplines.
Recognized among the top art and design schools in the world, DAAP empowers bold thinkers to explore their passions and transform ideas into impactful designs and experiences that move the world forward. Learning transforms when it’s lived.
Through hands-on collaboration, innovation, and one of the nation’s top co-op programs, students develop creative work that shapes culture and industries while joining a vibrant global network of DAAP alumni.
#4
nationally for co-op and internships
(U.S. News and World Report)
40
creative programs under one roof
#5
best visual communication design program
(College Factual)
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Students alternate classroom learning with professional experience through nationally recognized co-op programs, building portfolios, industry connections, and real-world skills across the globe.
At DAAP, collaboration happens across disciplines, studios, and communities. Students work on interdisciplinary projects with peers, faculty, and organizations at the local, national, and global levels.
Located in the heart of Cincinnati, DAAP is connected to a city known for its creative energy. Our urban environment creates opportunities for collaboration, inspiration, and co-op experiences beyond the classroom.
DAAP taught me that design is not just a craft, it is a way of investigating the world. Engaging with real-world challenges pushed me to think creatively, question assumptions, and develop bold solutions.
Brianna Dzuricsko MDes '26
October 27, 2026
At Chicago’s bKL Architecture, UC DAAP alumna and associate director Olivia Kempf now hires the co‑op students she once was, using UC’s architecture co‑op program to bring in fresh design ideas, build a talent pipeline and help students launch their careers.
October 20, 2026
The University of Cincinnati Bearcat mascot was voted Cincinnati’s favorite mascot in a Cincinnati Enquirer reader poll, earning 45.1% of the vote and topping other local favorites.
October 12, 2026
University of Cincinnati student Layne Wagner recently completed a co-op with Populous, a global design firm that’s worked on over half of the host stadiums for the 2026 World Cup.
