University College evolving to meet workforce needs, support lifelong learning across Ohio and beyond

For more than 80 years, University College has evolved to serve diverse student populations and adapt to new challenges. Executive Vice President and Provost Donald J. Leo has asked Dean David Nguyen and the University College leadership team to help ��ý create innovative academic programs that respond to the state’s evolving workforce needs and advance the goals of the Dynamic Strategy.

Historically, University College has been home to students exploring majors and completing interdisciplinary university-wide degree programs – important work that will continue. At the same time, the college will build on its tradition of creativity and innovation. A recent example is the Bachelor of General Studies, a degree that integrates coursework from across the institution in new and flexible ways. This type of forward-looking leadership is exactly what is needed at this moment.

Looking ahead, University College will:

Address workforce development needs by launching new, responsive academic programs.
Advance student affordability and access by developing ��ý’s first reduced credit-hour degrees.
Strengthen partnerships by collaborating with other colleges to design College Credit Plus pathways.
Enhance career readiness by working with faculty to embed industry-recognized credentials into courses and degree programs.
Promote lifelong learning by pioneering new noncredit offerings that serve alumni, professionals, and the broader community.

As University College evolves to focus on innovative academic programs, its student support units are moving to the Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost. The Academic Achievement Center, University Advising, Experiential Learning, Learning Communities, and Signature Academic Programs teams will report to Vice Provost of Academic Affairs Sarah Poggione. Associate Provost of Student Success Technology Strategy Deb Benton will help the teams use technology to enhance their work and best serve students.

Working Groups

Embedding Industry-Recognized Credentials into Courses

This working group will explore ways to integrate industry-recognized credentials into courses and degree programs to enhance student success and career readiness. By identifying credentials that align with workforce needs and academic strengths, the group will consider how these opportunities can be embedded into curricula without adding unnecessary barriers or credit hours to existing degrees. The group will also recommend structures, partnerships, and resources that allow students to graduate with both a degree and credentials valued by employers, positioning them for stronger outcomes in the job market.

Lifelong Learning Subscription Program

This working group will explore the development of a subscription-based lifelong learning program designed to serve both college alumni, professionals, and communities. The initiative seeks to extend the university’s educational mission beyond graduation by providing ongoing access to curated courses, workshops, and learning experiences that support professional development, personal growth, and curiosity. The group will examine models of delivery, potential audiences, content areas, structures, and potential partnerships. This working group’s activities will culminate in recommendations for a sustainable and scalable program that deepens connection to the institution and offers pathways for lifelong learning.

Non-Academic Credit Portfolio

This working group will evaluate and strengthen the university’s non-academic credit and professional learning portfolio to better serve lifelong learners and meet workforce needs. The group will conduct an environmental scan of current offerings, identify gaps and overlaps, and explore opportunities for new non-credit programs, certificates/micro-credentials, and professional learning experiences. Attention will be given to how these offerings align with industry demand, support career advancement, and connect to academic credit where appropriate. Given that ��ý already offers a number of programs in these areas, it would be important to understand what has worked and did not work in this space. The group’s recommendations will guide the development of a more coordinated, accessible, and impactful portfolio that enhances the university’s role as a hub for professional and continuing education.

Reduced Credit Hour Degree Programs

This working group will explore innovative approaches to designing degree pathways that can be completed with fewer total credit hours while maintaining academic quality and integrity. The State of Ohio is now requiring higher education institutions to develop reduced credit hour degrees. The working group’s charge includes reviewing national models, identifying regulatory and accreditation considerations, and generating ideas for program structures that balance efficiency, flexibility, and student success. As part of this group’s work, they may propose pilot program structures, including pathways for transfer students, returning students, and adult learners. The group will develop recommendations for implementation, including potential degree programs to prioritize.

Workforce-Aligned Academic Programs

This working group will explore workforce development needs by identifying opportunities to launch new, responsive academic programs. The group will analyze labor market data, engage with industry partners, and assess institutional strengths to determine areas of high demand where new programs can create strong career pathways for students. For example, the group will look at the role of competency-based education as a pathway of degree completion. The group will also consider flexible formats, credential options, and cross-disciplinary approaches that enable learners to adapt to rapidly changing economic needs and workforce demands. The group’s recommendations will guide the development of academic offerings that both meet employer and student needs.

Tags: