No longer ensconced in the proverbial Ivory Tower, colleges and universities are increasingly teaming up with industry leaders across all sectors to deliver “skills-based” education that puts students on the path to lucrative careers.
With students laser focused on earning degrees that provide a strong return on investment and industry leaders insisting that graduates have practical skills, these partnerships are growing in all areas of higher education.
Responding to rapidly changing industry needs is also a focus at the Heldrich Center for Workforce Development, Edward J. Bloustein School for Planning and Public Policy.
“We’re preparing people to become successful professionals in their area of interest and that hasn’t changed that much,” said Carl Van Horn, center director and distinguished professor. “That’s been our mission.”
Feedback from students, both current and former, and industry leaders has become increasingly important as the school constantly shifts to meet market demands. And real-world learning is a critical piece of that puzzle.
In addition to internships, the Heldrich school’s practicum Capstone course at the end of a student’s academic work provides students with a rich, hands-on learning opportunity that can help hone marketable skills, while learning more about the demands of a particular career area.
Working under the supervision of a faculty member, students undertake a project with an area client and are responsible for designing and completing all aspects of that project.
“That’s an example of how we’re giving students an opportunity to actually practice their craft before they look for a full-time job,” Van Horn said. “We’re always refining and working on those strategies, paying attention to trends and making sure our students are competitive in the national market, not just in New Jersey.”
“Hybrid learning has enabled more students who are working and studying to combine those two activities,” Van Horn added. “It also enables students and classes to collaborate with each other. Now they can get on a Zoom call and get more work done as a group. It’s here to stay.”