“Access, Success, and Completion” was the focus of the
second annual joint meeting of the State System and Community College
presidents and chief academic officers this Wednesday in Harrisburg. This was
another historic meeting between these public higher education partners that
continue to work together to better serve the students of the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania.
Did you know that nearly half of the new undergraduate
students who transferred to the State System’s 14 universities last year came
from one of the 14 community colleges of Pennsylvania? That’s an impressive
number, but we can do more. A recent study by the Georgetown University Center
on Education and the Workforce notes that, by 2020, 60% of jobs in Pennsylvania
will require some post-secondary education or training. In order to fill this
demand, partnerships and collaborations that remove barriers and focusing on
access will be vitally important.
The landmark Reverse Transfer Agreement that was announced
during Wednesday’s meeting is a great example of how both the universities and
community colleges are committed to improving student completion rates. The
agreement will allow State System students who began their studies at a
Pennsylvania community college to receive their associate’s degree while
continuing their education. Those who earned at least 45 credits at their
community college before transferring to the university are able to reverse
transfer credits back to their community college once they have earned enough
to apply for an associate’s degree, at no additional cost.
Why is this so important? The completion of an associate’s
degree would enhance the student’s earning potential as they work toward a
bachelor’s degree, certification, or other credential from a State System university.
I applaud our community college and university leaders for
taking this step forward, together. It’s crucial for all of us to continue to
think of ways to partner with others to better meet the needs of students and
employers.
Associates degree is important in education. Although we cannot call it a professional degree, but still it is a part of learning education that hold strong skills to us. I'm working with the essay writing service reviews with good writing skills most especially in associates course and it was one of the best accomplishment that I learn when I was studying that certain course.
ReplyDelete