Thomas Edison State University is expanding a statewide effort to convert high school career training into college credit, a move aimed at accelerating workforce entry and reducing education costs.
The initiative, completed through a Memorandum of Understanding with the New Jersey Department of Education, was announced March 2 in Trenton following a pilot program funded by $250,000 in federal Perkins Leadership funds.
At its core, the program evaluates Career and Technical Education coursework and related training to determine whether it qualifies for college credit through TESU’s Professional Learning Review process, creating a direct pipeline from high school programs into postsecondary credentials and employment.
The effort targets two persistent pressures in New Jersey’s economy — rising higher education costs and workforce shortages in skilled trades — by allowing students to enter the job market faster and with less debt.
“Thomas Edison State University was founded on the principle that learning should be recognized wherever and however it occurs,” said Merodie Hancock, president of TESU. “This initiative strengthens New Jersey’s workforce while expanding opportunity for students and families across the state.”
Students in participating CTE programs can earn college credit for classroom instruction, workplace training, and industry-recognized certifications, while schools can strengthen program value and eligibility for additional Perkins funding.
“By bridging the gap between high school and postsecondary education, we are expanding pathways for CTE program completers to enter the workforce with advanced credentials,” said Jeffrey Harmon, TESU’s vice provost for Strategic Initiatives and Institutional Effectiveness.
The model builds on earlier efforts that have already demonstrated cost and time savings. A 2023 partnership with the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America allowed students to earn up to 16 college credits through pre-apprenticeship training, reducing tuition costs by as much as $7,000.
Under the expanded framework, students may earn between six and 40 college credits depending on their program, significantly shortening the time required to complete a degree.
“This partnership marks a momentous step forward for Career and Technical Education students across New Jersey,” said Jorden Schiff, assistant commissioner for Teaching and Learning Services at the state Department of Education. “We are opening doors to anywhere from six to 40 college credits, giving students a powerful head start.”
With the pilot complete, TESU has launched a website to onboard additional schools and expand the program statewide, with a focus on aligning training with employer needs and strengthening the state’s workforce pipeline.
