Partnerships work

Partnerships have been emerging over the past decade between associations, industry, and academic institutions to provide this type of educational opportunity. The associations and industry lend professional expertise and important endorsements, while the educational institution adds credibility and stability through the academic credit.

What are the benefits of academic credit?
There are different types of academic credit and, depending upon the model, the credit can provide added benefit to the certificate education.

Academic credit connected to a certificate program may provide the following:
• count toward a degree program
• qualify for financial aid
• qualify for corporate education subsidies for employees
• provide added credibility
• provide the stepping stone for developing a new major or graduate program.

How do you get started?
If you are an association, you should contact your local community college or four-year institution to explore possible programming that would benefit your members. Select an academic department closest to your educational mission, or contact the continuing education or extension department. If you are a two- or four-year institution seeking to expand your offerings, explore your local and regional associations and identify those that could add value to your current or emerging programs.

LERN Magazine|March/April 2007