The college has published information about all of its certificates, associate degrees, and credentials on the national Credential Registry to help students make more informed decisions about their education.
Belmont College has joined a statewide community college transparency initiative in partnership with Credential Engine, also supported by the Gates Foundation. The initiative will help community college students make more informed decisions about their education by having information easily accessible up front, such as educational pathways and program outcomes.
According to an article on Belmont College’s website, college president Dr. Paul F. Gasparro was quoted as saying of the college’s involvement in the initiative, “Belmont College students deserve clear, reliable information as they make decisions about their education and future. By publishing our credentials on the national Credential Registry, we are helping our students better understand the value of our programs and how those programs connect to good jobs or the next step in their education. This kind of transparency builds trust and helps people make informed decisions.”
Belmont College has posted information about every one of its credentials, associate degrees, and certificates on the national Credential Registry. Students and their families will be able to view information like educational pathways and program outcomes, as well as program cost, time to completion, skills gained, and available financial aid, before making any decisions. This will help students ensure they are prepared for their college education.
Avi Zaffini, who serves as the president and CEO of the Ohio Association of Community Colleges, said, “Ohio’s community colleges have always been the state’s top workforce partner and the best value in higher education. Partnering with Credential Engine strengthens that commitment by making our credential data transparent and easier to understand. They support solutions that give students, families, and employers a clearer picture of the value and opportunity our colleges provide.”
There are 22 community colleges in Ohio, and they serve a total of 250,000 students, who range from high schoolers earning credit through dual enrollment, traditional college students, adult learners, and veterans. All of these individuals will be able to enter into their education with more transparent information about the types of degrees, certificates, and credentials offered by the colleges who are participating in the transparency initiative.
Credential Engine CEO Scott Cheney said, “Ohio’s community colleges are setting a powerful example for the country. When institutions publish their credentials in solid data formats, they give learners the information they need to make confident choices about their futures. We’re proud to support Ohio’s community colleges in that work.”
Ohio Department of Higher Education Chancellor Mike Duffey noted, “Transparency in the education process matters. This statewide partnership will help more Ohioans make informed decisions about education and careers.”
For more information about Belmont College, visit the school’s website.