Apprenticeships predate the modern university by centuries. But as concerns about both college costs and value mount, many higher ed institutions are looking to apprenticeships—all of which involve earning while learning—as affordable, efficient pathways for learners seeking reliable, well-paying careers in everything from nursing to cybersecurity. In the process, they’re reimagining the interplay between higher ed and the workforce and developing fresh ways to deliver experience and credentials of value. Inside Higher Ed’s multipart series, produced with support from Ascendium, explores the people, places and programs shaping the new era of apprenticeships.
Apprenticeships are growing. But experts say that without more funding, updated laws and better data, the U.S. is still far from the system they know is possible.
From special education classrooms in rural Missouri to manufacturing plants in central New York, apprenticeship programs and their higher ed partners are helping workers earn while they learn, fill critical labor shortages and build careers close to home.
South Carolina technical college students can participate in a wide range of apprenticeship programs, from culinary arts to automotive care. Inside Higher Ed visited with some of the apprentices recently to see what they’re learning as they’re earning.
Once synonymous with hard hats and tool belts, apprenticeships are branching into health care, artificial intelligence, business services, advanced manufacturing and more.
