Critics
pointing to student debt and graduates with no careers are forcing colleges and
universities to defend the value of their degrees. Some are responding with new
programs intended to ensure more grads land well-paying positions.
City
Colleges of Chicago just announced a new partnership with PepsiCo to reserve up
to 40 technician and mechanic jobs in transportation, distribution, and
manufacturing for its students. Those enrolled in degree or certificate
programs will also receive workplace readiness training from PepsiCo and will
be able to participate in the company’s prep sessions for its screening
process.
PepsiCo
also committed to hosting a series of hiring events specifically for City
Colleges students and local residents. The partnership creates a pipeline to
funnel City Colleges grads into high-skill work needed by the company.
DePauw
University in Greencastle, IN, unveiled the DePauw Gold Commitment,
guaranteeing each graduate “a successful launch” into the working world. Those
that don’t have a job or grad school placement (or aren’t pursuing “a path of
their choosing”) within six months of graduation can come back for a semester
of additional free tuition. DePauw is also partnering with companies to provide
six-month entry-level positions to give these students a leg up on gaining job
experience.
In order
to secure the Gold Commitment, incoming DePauw students signing up for the
program as freshmen “will be expected to begin preparing for life after college
in their first semester, participate fully in all the opportunities available
to them, graduate within four years, and conduct themselves as good citizens
during their college experience.”
