Certification + Degree Pathways in Support of First-Generation, Low-Income, and Adult Learners

As part of a three-year grant from ECMC Foundation, Workcred, the League for Innovation in the Community College, and the Higher Learning Commission teamed up to develop an affordable, scalable approach to align associate degrees with industry needs through Certification + Degree (C+D) Pathways.

C+D Pathways, which involves embedding industry certifications into associate degree programs, aligns with both student goals and industry needs. Furthermore, they better position students in their field and help to build a pipeline of skilled workers.

During the project, the partners collaborated with the Community College of Aurora, Delta College, Kirkwood Community College, and Moraine Valley Community College to develop and implement C+D Pathways in IT and health science programs, and establish a process for economical replication. 

Click here to view the pathways developed by the college partners and to access other project resources, including the Playbook for Certification + Degree Pathways.