LBW Community College is developing a program to transfer work experience into college credit, creating a pathway to achieve a college credential for those already in the workforce.
LBWCC is one of only 25 colleges selected by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to be awarded a $10,000 Lumina Foundation for Education grant. The grant will fund the development of the “LBWCC Prior Learning Initiative” that will identify traditional work-based certifications, licenses, and learning experiences and convert them to college credit.
“With the grant funds, we can now pursue this approach to recognize non-traditional educational experiences and assess specific courses within a technical program to determine if college credit can be awarded,” said LBWCC President Dr. Herb Riedel.
“This type of program falls within our current strategic plan and aligns with statewide workforce development initiatives. Our goal is to increase degree completion in technical fields by developing non-credit-to-credit academic pathways.”
The program will give existing skilled workers increased access, affordability, and success in attaining college credentials, he added.
The program is on a fast-paced development timeline, with LBWCC representatives attending a SACSCOC conference in Atlanta in April where they will receive tools and resources to aid in program development.