Even before the pandemic, the need for skilled and credentialed workers outpaced what one type of educational institution alone could provide. Learners are facing barriers to success such as lack of adequate transportation, housing, child care and healthcare. The APLU report stressed the importance of colleges coordinating student services across campus and also collaborating with employers, community colleges and workforce boards.

"It can't be done only through community colleges or apprenticeships or company training programs. All hands need to be on deck for this," said Sheila Martin, APLU vice president for economic development and community engagement.

"There are certain areas of higher education that have always had really strong ties to employers — engineering and business schools especially," Martin said. Going forward, she said, colleges should consider partnerships with private businesses for all areas of study.

To provide more flexible programming, the report recommended awarding credit to students for prior learning and also creating pathways to assure a smooth transition between undergraduate and graduate programs.

Innovation examples included strengthening options for experiential learning, skills transparency and personalized education. Diverse learning paths are frequently offered as add-ons, for elective credit or for no credit at all, according to the report. It argues specialized options for students should be treated as the default rather than an afterthought.

Read the full article about educational opportunities by Laura Spitalniak at Higher Education News.