At the university’s May 9 Board of Trustees meeting, the board approved initiatives that will help expand opportunities for students and align workforce training with industry needs.
Indiana State University will soon be introducing two new initiatives that were approved at the May 9, 2025 Board of Trustees meeting. The initiatives will expand student opportunities and will introduce a new workforce certification program to align course offerings with current local workforce needs.
According to an article on Indiana State University’s website, Maribeth Stevens, who serves as the Vice President for Enrollment Management, explained one of the initiatives discussed and approved at the Board of Trustees meeting. Stevens is quoted as saying, “As our student demographics and needs continue to evolve, we’re committed to meeting learners where they are. Expanded CPL and specialized credentials like the Unmanned Systems certificate reflect our focus on access, affordability, and career alignment, especially for adult learners, transfer students, and others seeking flexible, workforce-ready pathways.”
This Credit for Prior Learning enhancement will provide more opportunities for students to apply skills and knowledge they have already gained via real-world experiences, such as military experience and professional training, that will be put toward credit to earn a degree at Indiana State University. Expanding the parameters for what is applicable for Credit for Prior Learning will support more students as they pursue a degree, making a college education more accessible and affordable.
Additionally, the board approved a new undergraduate Certificate in Unmanned Systems as introduced by Dr. Christopher Olsen, the university’s Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs. The certificate program will provide students with drone technology training.
Speaking of the new program, Dr. Olsen said, “The new Unmanned Systems certificate provides a flexible, skills-based credential that complements a variety of majors. It opens doors for students to explore the rapidly evolving field of drone technology while enhancing their ability to gather, interpret, and apply data, particularly in fields such as environmental science, engineering, and public safety. Additionally, the program is designed to accommodate professionals and lifelong learners who may not be pursuing a degree but are interested in gaining practical expertise for career advancement or personal enrichment.”
For more information about Indiana State University, visit the school’s website.