NJ’s Some College, No Degree initiative names new partners

The Office of the Secretary of Higher Education (OSHE) announced partnerships March 30 with ReUp Education and 17 New Jersey higher education institutions as part of the Some College, No Degree Initiative.

The program and new partnership aim to provide outreach and coaching to the more than 750,000 estimated New Jerseyans who have some college credit, but no degree.

Through the effort, ReUp Education will work directly with the 17 institutions to identify, reach and engage “stopped-out” students – who have left college without completing a degree – as well as provide personalized support for the re-enrollment process.

According to a press release, the data collected during the first year of this partnership will be leveraged to report statewide results and best practices.

“By investing in the statewide Some College, No Degree initiative and partnering with the right groups to implement this important program, we are helping smooth the transition for adult learners who left college – even years ago – and are now going back to complete their degrees,” said Gov. Phil Murphy in a press release announcing the partnership.

“Helping adult learners believe in their ability to return to college and providing tailored support so they can complete their degree will be life-changing for them, their families, and New Jersey,” said Brian Bridges, secretary of higher education. “As we have expanded pathways to college, through programs like the New Jersey College Promise, we want adult learners to realize the new opportunities available since they last attended.”

Terah Crews, chief executive officer of ReUp Education, said the partnership will allow adult learners in New Jersey to receive ReUp’s unique learner-centered support to navigate barriers.

“We’re honored to work with the state to ensure their adult learners have the specialized support they need to thrive in the State of New Jersey,” said Crews.