Higher ed committee reviews college career readiness offerings

After graduating high school most students just want to follow their dreams, wherever they may lead.

Wednesday, the House Higher Education and Career Readiness Policy and Finance Committee reviewed options available for students to pursue their potential career passions outside of the traditional four-year college path.

The Minnesota Career College Association oversees three career colleges in the state: National American University, Rasmussen College and Academy College. Together the institutions offer numerous programs including aviation, business, design, early education, nursing and paralegal.

“We take seriously what program offerings we have,” said Katie Misukanis, the association chair. “We strive to offer programs that are relevant and meet the needs of the workforce; we are committed to bridging the gap between institutional output and employment needs.”

Misukanis said institutions work with business advisory boards, monitor national trends and work with local communities to determine which programs to pursue and operate. Hybrid career courses and flipped-classroom models are also utilized to ensure students receive relevant experience and graduate in a timely manner.

WATCH Video of Wednesday's meeting of the House Higher Education and Career Readiness Policy and Finance Committee 

However, program accreditation with other schools across the nation was one issue which concerned legislators.

A September 2016 ruling by Hennepin County District Court Judge James Moore said Globe University and the Minnesota School of Business, former association members, committed fraud by misleading students that their diplomas would lead to criminal justice jobs.

“What credits typically transfer in a program? Will any credits transfer to a university, or do students have to start all over [when pursuing a degree]?” questioned Rep. Laurie Pryor (DFL-Minnetonka).

“We don’t guarantee credit transfer,” said Misukanis. “It would be up to the receiving institution. That’s a much broader issue than I am able to answer on my own.”