The Modern College of Design’s first co-op program is now underway. The Dayton region’s top employers are participating and providing Modern students the opportunity to gain professional leadership and design experience. As a graduation requirement of the new Bachelor’s Completion Program, students will complete at least 420 hours of real-world experience and earn credits towards a Bachelor’s Degree.

Employers participating in The Modern’s first co-op program include:

• Better Business Bureau, Dayton, Ohio
• Boom Crate – Dayton, Ohio
• Dragonfly- Dayton, Ohio
• Erica Fit Love Studios – Dayton, Ohio
• Jafe Decorating Inc. – Greenville, Ohio
• Life Church-Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
• Olberding Brands-Cincinnati, Ohio
• Stratacache- Dayton, Ohio
• Theta Design Co.- Dayton, Ohio
• University of Dayton Athletics- Dayton, Ohio
• YSI, a Xylem Brand- Yellow Springs, Ohio


The Modern anticipates the new co-op program will expand significantly in upcoming years as employers experience the quality of the graduates’ skills. The Modern developed this innovative program using feedback from the region’s top design firms, and the curriculum includes a unique mix of advanced design, leadership, strategy, marketing, and business courses.

“Gaining 16-weeks of professional experience in a fast-paced, innovative work environment is invaluable for our Bachelor’s Degree students,” states President Jessica Barry. “We are thankful that the Dayton region’s employers are committed to the development of the next generation of design leaders.”

Employers interested in participating in future co-op sessions or meeting future graduates should contact Career Services Director Rick Willits at 937-294-0592 or rick.willits@themodern.edu.

New online, accelerated, and residential classes start in May and June of this year. Interested students should apply at themodern.edu/apply/apply-now/.