SRU launching work-based learning program

Sept. 3, 2024

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. - Slippery Rock University has launched a new program to enhance students' preparedness for the workforce earlier in their college careers. SRU's Early College Work-Based Learning program was created for the 2024 fall semester after SRU received a $100,000 grant from Pennsylvania's State System of Higher Education Foundation and the Strada Education Foundation.

As of one of five State System universities participating in this three-year pilot project, SRU will work with students who opt into the program as well as large regional employers to provide work-based learning, including paid internships and apprenticeships. The programming targets students with fewer than 60 academic credits so that they learn workplace skills and are introduced to the professional world at a time that allows for greater impact to their development.

"This program is designed to help students start thinking about careers and developing skills earlier," said Susan Bowser, SRU assistant director of work-based learning programs. "Students will have more opportunities to 'test-drive' a career and gain confidence in their job-searching abilities, which is important to do before they reach the end of their time in college. The goal is to position them for better entry-level jobs with higher incomes, which positively impacts their long-term earnings and economic mobility."

According to Strada, students who have work-based learning, especially paid internships, have more confidence in their skills, are more likely to get higher-paying jobs after graduation, and are more satisfied with their education and career choices. Also, because 92% of SRU students who are attending college for the first time complete their degree after they reach 60 credits, the University if focusing the program on students who are in their first two years.

In addition to enhancing the student experience, employers in the region will also benefit by having access to talent with marketable skills. Pennsylvania has worker shortages and a critical education and training gap. According to the Lumina Foundation, 60% of jobs in the state require some higher education after high school, but only 53% of workers have the needed degree or credential. Highmark Health is the initial partner employer to support the pilot project.

SRU's Early College Work-Based Learning will begin this fall by offering students four hours of training, offered in one-hour increments during the University's "Common Hour" so it doesn't conflict with regular class times. Additionally, students who are eligible for work study have the potential to be placed in a paid, non-credit-bearing internship with off-campus employers and organizations or virtual job simulation training.

SRU is joined by Shippensburg, Cheyney, Commonwealth and East Stroudsburg universities in the State System for this pilot program. PASSHE intends to expand the initiative to all 10 State System universities after the pilot is completed.

More information about the statewide initiative is available on the PASSHE news release. For more information about the SRU's Early College Work-Based Learning program, contact Bowser at 724.738.2396 or email [email protected]. SRU students can also sign up for events and make an appointment with Bowser on Handshake.

MEDIA CONTACT: Justin Zackal | 724.738.4854 | [email protected]