UC and FC Cincinnati Kick Off Student-Focused Partnership with Real-World Impact

The University of Cincinnati and FC Cincinnati have launched a strategic partnership designed to create high-impact student experiences, from real-world internships to STEM outreach across the region. Built on shared values and a deep connection to Cincinnati, this collaboration is more than a handshake—it’s a launchpad for student success, community engagement, and alumni pride.

This partnership will strengthen and advance the bond between education and athletics in the Queen City, opening new doors across the region and beyond.

More Than a Sponsorship: A Career and Community Accelerator

This exciting collaboration goes beyond the sidelines. This collaboration is rooted in impact, from professional development to K–12 STEM outreach. While it includes sponsorship elements, its core purpose is to connect students and the city through hands-on experience and education. Read about this official partnership featured in the Cincinnati Business Courier.

As part of this new collaboration:

• UC students will gain access to exclusive internships with FC Cincinnati in areas like marketing, operations, communications, and fan engagement through a matchday internship program.
• The partnership will enhance STEM engagement for K–12 students by connecting science and math to the sport of soccer through UC-sponsored community events.
• FC Cincinnati front office professionals will join UC classes throughout the year—both virtually and in person—to share real-world career insights.

UC Online Students: Connected from Anywhere

From Clifton to California, every UC Online student is part of this partnership. Through virtual speaker events, digital engagement opportunities, and the same access to school spirit and career resources, online learners gain more than a degree—they gain a community.

“Our programs meet learners where they are,” says Julie Thalman, Vice Provost for UC Online. “This partnership mirrors that flexibility.”

UC Online students may study from a distance, but their experience is steeped in the same traditions, values, and pride that define the Bearcat journey.

Celebrating Tradition. Advancing Opportunity.

Ask anyone who grew up here, and they’ll tell you: Cincinnati is more than a city, it’s a feeling. It’s chili with a mountain of cheese on top on game day. It’s the sound of fans chanting in unison. It’s the sight of Bearcat red and FC Cincinnati orange and blue lighting up the same streets.

Cincinnati is a city that honors its roots, but always looks forward. This partnership reflects that balance: uniting historic school pride with modern, career-aligned experiences for today’s students.

What Students and Alumni Can Expect Next

This collaboration opens the door for exciting opportunities—think exclusive events, internship possibilities with the club, and expanded alumni engagement. It’s also a celebration of school spirit and civic pride that will ripple through UC’s classrooms, stadiums, and digital spaces.

So whether you’re a student gearing up for your first semester or an alum remembering the thrill of your capstone presentation, this partnership is a reminder: You’re a part of something bigger.

One City. One Community. One Bearcat Family.

FC Cincinnati and the University of Cincinnati share more than geography, they share a vision. A belief that passion, hard work, and heart can bring people together in powerful ways.

Whether you’re on the pitch, in the stands, or behind the scenes (or on a laptop), this partnership proves that Bearcats belong everywhere progress is made.

Become a part of the future of Cincinnati—explore UC’s online programs to advance your career and make a difference.