University of Akron introduces Bachelor of Arts in Community and Workforce Education program

The University of Akron’s LeBron James Family Foundation School of Education in the Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences is introducing a new program for individuals who wish to put their passion for education to use in something other than a traditional classroom teaching setting. The Bachelor of Arts in Community and Workforce Education program will begin in the Fall 2025 semester.

According to an article on the University of Akron’s website, Dr. Renee Mudrey, who serves as an associate professor and the assistant director of the LJFF School of Education, was quoted as saying of the new program, “This program reflects our dedication to supporting students who want to work in education but don’t necessarily see themselves as licensed classroom teachers. It provides a pathway for individuals passionate about education to thrive in roles such as workforce training, adult education and instructional design, meeting a growing demand for these skills.”

The university developed the program to be in accordance with a growing local demand for individuals to work in instructional design, adult education, and other nontraditional education professions. It was designed to meet the needs of community partners. Dr. Mudrey said, “The feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive. Our partners confirmed that this program will help fill critical gaps in the workforce by preparing individuals for specialized roles in training and development.”

According to the program page for the Bachelor of Arts in Community and Workforce Education program, it is an ideal pathway for “students interested in non-licensure teaching and training, instructional design, and community and workforce program development careers.” The program will be delivered in a hybrid format.

Dr. Gary Holliday, who serves as the director of the LJFF School of Education, said, “We are thrilled to introduce the new Community and Workforce Education degree, starting in fall 2025, and look forward to seeing our graduates make a lasting impact in their communities.”

For more information about the University of Akron, visit the school’s website.