Building a highly qualified workforce is both a goal and a challenge for many organizations. Industries such as healthcare face a growing need for employees with specialized skills and training. However, the time and costs associated with degree programs can be barriers for many potential healthcare professionals.
As an academic institution, offering credit for prior learning (CPL) gives students a head start in attaining the training credits they need to complete a degree program. CPL partnerships can create valuable new pathways for continuing education and professional development in healthcare.
Measurable Outcomes That CPL Partnerships Deliver
CPL partnerships set a clear framework for translating professional training and experience into academic credits. Workers can apply relevant certifications and real-world experience toward the completion requirements for a degree in a science- or healthcare-related field. This allows them to attain their degree sooner and move into vital healthcare and allied health roles.
For employers, CPL opportunities are an attractive employee benefit, giving workers accessible advancement pathways. Opportunities to pursue education and then move into higher-skilled, higher-paying positions can improve employee retention and mobility.
A more stable, skilled workforce reduces day-to-day staffing challenges and reduces reliance on overtime, agency staffing and contract labor.
A High-Integrity Pathway Into Degree Programs
CPL programs aren’t simply formalities that shave a little time off a degree program. Instead, these programs recognize faculty-validated, industry-aligned learning as a co-equal alternative to traditional college classes.
By granting CPL for course-aligned certifications, degree-seeking students can focus on their remaining academic requirements. This reduces the time it takes to earn a degree while still ensuring fidelity to academic and professional standards.
Institutional Benefits Beyond Enrollment Growth
Early- and mid-career students are often highly motivated learners. Research from the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning shows that adults who start a program with CPL are 17% more likely to graduate than adults who do not. They are also likely to maximize learning opportunities, with students who receive CPL averaging 17 additional course credits than those without it.
Potential students are often drawn to colleges and universities that offer CPL. These schools offer them an effective, efficient pathway to career advancement. CPL is a cost-effective tool to attract motivated students pursuing high-demand careers.
Case Study Highlight: MedCerts & Franklin University
Franklin University has partnered with MedCerts to co-create a CPL framework, working together to align select MedCerts’ courses with healthcare programs at Franklin.
Students can transfer credits earned in skill-focused programs at MedCerts into three different academic pathways:
- Associate of Science (A.S.) Health Services
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Health Education + Promotion
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Healthcare Management
The credit transfer allows students to dive right into other courses in the degree program, building on the foundation they already have. They can complete their degree in less time and at a lower cost, making college more accessible without compromising educational quality.MedCerts successfully partners with higher learning institutions and employers to build a skilled, motivated workforce. Our CPL partnerships have benefitted thousands of students in healthcare, IT and beyond. Learn what MedCerts CPL partnerships can do for your organization today.
