Alternative Credentials | Inside Higher Ed

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Governance Executive Leadership

Higher Ed in the Crucible

Higher education is under fire—and it’s leading to innovation, presidents say.

Opinion

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Workforce Pell Has (Nearly) Arrived; It’s Not What Was Intended

Many short-term programs won’t qualify, and the necessary data systems are lacking. These limitations are a matter of (statutory) design.

By Sean Seepersad

The photo is taken through a piece of measuring equipment that has a semicircular cutout. On the left, a professor is at the screen, pointing to the center. Students are seated to the right.

Tech & Innovation Alternative Credentials

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.

The word "DATA" in red three-dimensional lettering stands out amid a sea of other words, including "information," "goals," and "design," all in white three-dimensional lettering.

Opinion

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A Golden Opportunity for Data Innovation

Workforce Pell points to the urgent need to better align educational and labor market data.

By DeRionne Pollard

A photo of a campus sign that says "University of" (with the remainder of the name cut off), in front of a campus building in springtime.

Opinion

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‘Not Everyone Needs College’ Is a Straw Man

Too often, the claim that “everyone needs college” serves to derail conversations about access.

By Jeremy J. Kasten

A photo illustration of apprentices in various industries

Tech & Innovation Alternative Credentials

The Apprenticeship (R)Evolution

Once synonymous with hard hats and tool belts, apprenticeships are branching into health care, artificial intelligence, business services, advanced manufacturing and more.

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Quick Takes

Higher Learning Commission Endorses First Microcredential Providers

The Higher Learning Commission endorsed its first microcredential providers last week after launching a new process last fall to assess...

Apprenticeship is trending in the U.S., but it’s had similar moments before and failed to scale. Many experts think this time will be different.

Deep Dives

The Apprentice: Why Higher Ed Is Leaning Into Earn-and-Learn

Colleges are facing “a perfect storm.” Is adding apprenticeship pathways a way through?