AUBURN, Ind. (WLKI) - The Young Professionals of DeKalb County is expanding professional development opportunities for its members through a new partnership with Trine University.
The partnership will provide YPDC members and their spouses access to reduced-rate undergraduate coursework through TrineOnline degree programs. The agreement is designed to help early-career professionals gain additional skills, complete degrees and advance in their careers.
Eligible dependent children of members who complete degrees through the program may also qualify for the Legacy Award, which provides tuition assistance for students who enroll at Trine University's Angola campus.
"Trine University is excited to partner with the Young Professionals of DeKalb County to provide premier educational opportunities for its members and their families," Trine University President Tony Kline, Ph.D., said. "We hope that many are able to take advantage of our convenient, career-focused online offerings to gain the skills and knowledge that allows them to advance in their careers."
Through the partnership, Trine University will also work with YPDC to develop customized coursework, degree programs or certificate programs based on the organization's educational needs.
"Our mission is to provide professional development opportunities for those who are early in their career, and we're thankful to Trine University for working with us to give our members easier access to training as well as degree programs," said Parker Woods, treasurer and partnership coordinator for YPDC.
YPDC members participating in TrineOnline programs will have access to resources available to all online students, including more than 200 courses that use Open Educational Resources, free applications for admission and 24/7 online tutoring. TrineOnline currently offers 34 courses that include industry-recognized certificates. Those courses are designed to help learners prepare for certification exams or earn certifications upon completion.
As part of the partnership, Trine University personnel will help YPDC members through the application process, provide unofficial transfer credit evaluations and allow eligible students to transfer up to 90 credits into TrineOnline degree programs. After enrollment, Trine academic advisors will assist students with degree completion, including helping identify grant and scholarship opportunities.
The partnership also provides YPDC access to business planning, product development and process improvement services through Innovation 1 at Trine University.
In addition, YPDC will have opportunities to promote the organization to Trine students and speak with student organizations on campus.
The collaboration is part of Trine University's efforts to work with employers and organizations interested in building stronger relationships with the university and expanding access to professional education.