NEWBERRY, S.C. — Newberry College will start a career-readiness program called Degree Plus backed by close to $500,000 in first-year funding the U.S. Department of Education awarded, money that opens a five-year federal grant projected to reach $1.7 million.
The award comes through the department Strengthening Institutions Program. Degree Plus ties classwork to employer contacts, personal career help and industry certifications, which students will be able to earn without paying extra on top of their degrees.
Seniors are slated to get the first chance at those credentials, with more openings and eligibility details to come as the program grows. Fields under review range from health care and artificial intelligence to IT, data analytics, sales and project management, and the final list will reflect advice from employers and faculty.
Part of the money will add staff at the Muller Center for Careers and Purpose: two full-time jobs and one half-time job, so the center can widen coaching and build more links with employers.
College president David Harpool described the effort as an investment in preparing students for careers as well as diplomas.
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