Relational Map coming soon. Learn more about the work we’re doing with AI and view our example prototypes here.
In December 2023, Education Strategy Group, SHEEO (State Higher Education Executive Officers Association), and Opportunity America at the Progressive Policy Institute launched the Noncredit Mobility Academy. The two-year Academy is working with state leaders to promote greater economic mobility for learners who start their education journeys in noncredit programs. State teams are attending Academy instructional convenings and working closely with coaches providing technical assistance.
The Academy is helping states build systems and policies to support students’ economic mobility in three areas:
Six states were selected to participate in the Academy following a competitive application process. Each state is conducting three common activities:
Each state’s plan is focusing on different ways to implement these common activities:
Noncredit programs are typically shorter-term training opportunities to enable learners to gain specific workforce skills and qualifications. They usually do not count toward Associate or Bachelor’s degree requirements.
Learners who begin their educational journeys in noncredit programs need clear pathways to high-value career opportunities. Workforce leaders also need confidence that education systems are equipping individuals with the right knowledge and skills to fill their talent needs.
As colleges develop new approaches to meeting employer hiring needs, noncredit options have grown in popularity—there are estimated to be nearly four million learners currently enrolled in these programs. Yet there are significant gaps in understanding noncredit programs and how they connect to labor market value.
Ascendium Education Group, the ECMC Foundation
Have something to add or refine? Your input in this work matters greatly and we look forward to reviewing your additions