Innovative Higher Ed Models Emerge at St. Petersburg College, University of Illinois System, and Kentucky Student Success Collaborative
Published on 4.5.25
The landscape of higher education is shifting towards greater accessibility and flexibility as institutions seek to address the needs of non-traditional students. In this regard, St. Petersburg College has been a pioneer in online education for over two decades, offering bachelor's degree programs that cater to Tampa Bay residents.
The University of Illinois System has partnered with One Million Degrees to launch a pilot program aimed at increasing transfer rates from community colleges to four-year universities. This initiative focuses on first-generation students and will utilize coaching services provided by Dr. Matt Bergman and Dr. Dallas Kratzer, experts in prior learning assessment and adult learner persistence.
The Kentucky Student Success Collaborative has launched an initiative to award academic credit for knowledge gained through work, military or life experiences. Participating institutions include Bluegrass Community and Technical College, Eastern Kentucky University, Gateway Community and Technical College, Big Sandy Community and Technical College, Northern Kentucky University, and Somerset Community College. This effort aims to increase Kentucky's economic competitiveness by raising the percentage of working-age Kentuckians with a postsecondary credential from 56% to 60% by 2030.
These developments reflect a growing recognition of the importance of flexible and inclusive education pathways that cater to diverse student needs. By providing comprehensive support services and career-focused curricula, institutions like St. Petersburg College are helping students prepare for in-demand jobs. The University of Illinois System's pilot program and the Kentucky Student Success Collaborative's initiative demonstrate a commitment to increasing transfer rates and bachelor's degree completion among non-traditional students.