Maximizing Opportunities for Adult Learners
Vermont Business Magazine Vermont State University (VTSU) and Community College of Vermont (CCV), the two institutions that make up the Vermont State Colleges system (VSC), are pleased to share a collaborative initiative and further partnership aimed at expanding educational opportunities for transfer students and adult learners. This partnership offers, through CCV, a pathway to the flexible VTSU Professional Studies program that caters to students’ specific career goals, combining the strengths of both institutions to provide a seamless avenue toward a four-year degree.
The degree program allows students to personalize their academic path to align it with their professional aspirations. Included in the program are 30 credits of electives, empowering students to focus on an area of interest while gaining critical leadership, management, and business expertise. A key component of the program is a Planning Seminar, designed to help students carve out an academic experience that aligns with their professional goals. The program culminates in a Senior Seminar to integrate learning and ensure that students have a well-rounded, practical education.
“This program is ideal for an adult learner with a career focus that doesn’t fit easily in another of our programs,” shared Dr. Lisa Hayward, Associate Vice President of Online Program Administration at VTSU. “The new Professional Studies program empowers students to align their professional goals with their academic pursuits while leveraging prior learning credits earned at CCV.”
Students who begin their postsecondary journey at CCV can seamlessly transfer their credits to VTSU and complete their bachelor’s degree in this new Professional Studies program.
Elizabeth Mauch, Chancellor of the VSC stated, “enhancing existing tracks and creating new seamless pathways for students to move between our institutions is a key strategic priority of the VSC. We are embracing innovation and collaboration to ensureVermonters have access to the opportunities that work for their differing needs. It’s our responsibility as Vermont’s public higher education system to offer as many paths to education and training as we reasonably can and this degree partnership is a prime example of how we are meeting that charge.”
Melissa DeBlois, Office of Prior Learning Assessment at CCV noted, “the VTSU Professional Studies program is a welcome addition to the transfer pathways that exist for adult learners seeking college credit for what they already know through the Office of Prior Learning Assessment. The program flexibility allows students to save time and money while meeting their academic and professional goals.”
“This program is about flexibility and meeting the demands of the modern learner,” added Dr. James Noyes, Associate Professor of Business Administration at VTSU. “VTSU was established with the vision that we meet students where they are with a program that meets their needs, now and in the future. This new offering is designed to provide that ultimate flexibility, with the option for students to take courses in flexible formats (in-person, online, or hybrid) and to maximize their transfer and elective credits as they pursue career advancement or personal development. With a focus on career progression, leadership, and professional management, it’s a valuable stepping stone for those aiming for a leg up or a leadership role.”
The program’s offering within Vermont’s public higher education system meets the needs of students looking for the most flexible and most affordable pathway to a bachelor’s degree. Tuition at VTSU and CCV is the most affordable in the state with tuition at CCV starting at $280 per credit and tuition at VTSU starting at $388 per credit with significant scholarship, grant, and other financial aid offerings available.
Additionally, VTSU is working closely with industry partners to ensure the program’s relevance in today’s job market. Many high-demand, high-paying jobs today demand the preparation of a Bachelor’s degree, and this program produces a skilled workforce that is well-equipped to meet the needs of growing industries across the state.
The first cohort of students in the CCV program will begin this summer, after which interested students will transfer to VTSU.
For more details about the program and to learn how to apply, prospective students can visit VTSU’s Professional Studies page and CCV’s Professional Studies Program page.
ABOUT VERMONT STATE UNIVERSITY
Vermont State University provides a high-quality, flexible, and affordable education for students seeking associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, certificates, and in-demand professional credentials. The university builds upon a history of public higher education in Vermont dating back to 1787. More information about Vermont State University can be found here: https://vermontstate.edu/