QUICK ANSWER
The defining difference between the University of Cincinnati’s DAAP and Parsons is paid work built into the degree. At DAAP, co-op is mandatory for all undergraduate programmes except horticulture, urban studies and art history, with 2–5 full-time co-op terms of at least 35 hours a week for 15–18 weeks each. Parsons has no mandatory co-op; students build experience through New York internships and coursework.
So DAAP suits a student who wants structured industry experience before graduating, especially in design fields; Parsons suits a student who wants a New York design school with more freedom in how experience is gained.
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DAAP vs Parsons
| UC DAAP | Parsons | |
|---|---|---|
| Setting | Design college within a public research university, Cincinnati | Design school within The New School, New York |
| Co-op | Mandatory for nearly all undergraduate programmes; 2–5 full-time terms | Not mandatory |
| Co-op term | At least 35 hours a week for 15–18 weeks | — |
| Application | UC application with DAAP programme requirements | Common App, two essays, 8–12 pieces via Admission Hub |
| Tuition | See UC’s current nonresident rates | $62,348 (2026–27) |
From University of Cincinnati co-op pages and Parsons How to Apply and tuition pages, checked October 2026.
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What Co-op Means for an International Student
Co-op terms are paid, full-time work periods. International students usually work in the U.S. during study under Curricular Practical Training (CPT); UC links to its own CPT guidelines, so confirm the rules for your programme before relying on co-op income. UC also runs a separate International Co-op Program with paid roles abroad of 6–8 months.
FOR KOREAN STUDENTS
Industrial design and other DAAP design programmes combine study and work; Parsons offers New York access without a fixed structure. See RISD vs Parsons for industrial design and careers after art school (Korean).
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is co-op required at DAAP?
Yes, for all undergraduate programmes except horticulture, urban studies and art history.
How long is a DAAP co-op term?
At least 35 hours a week for 15–18 weeks; programmes require 2–5 terms.
Does Parsons require internships?
There is no mandatory co-op; experience comes through internships and coursework.
Can international students do co-op?
Usually through CPT; check UC’s CPT guidelines for your programme.
What does Parsons cost?
Tuition is $62,348 for 2026–27.
ROYAL BLUE ART & DESIGN
Our director has taught Korean students for U.S. art schools for 19 years, from our studio in Apgujeong, Seoul. Our results page lists 1,099 acceptances, 2009–2026, each confirmed directly with the student, including 63 at Parsons. Call 02-3446-5929 or book a consultation.
From University of Cincinnati co-op and CPT pages and Parsons How to Apply and tuition pages. Checked October 2026. If something here has changed, tell us and we will correct it.
Related reading: RISD vs Parsons (Industrial Design) · Careers (Korean) · Parsons for Korean Students · Northwestern vs Parsons · Royal Blue Results