In an article published by Inside Higher Ed on October 16, 2026, Joshua Bay examines four ways colleges are rethinking degree completion to help more students overcome financial, academic, and administrative barriers to graduation.
1. Expanding Transfer Opportunities: Colleges are establishing partnerships that make it easier for students to transfer credits and continue toward bachelor’s degrees without repeating completed coursework. Some community colleges are also introducing bachelor’s degree programs.
2. Creating More Educational Pathways: Some institutions are allowing students to continue their education at the same college where they completed their associate degrees. Flexible scheduling, online learning, and financial assistance help make these opportunities more accessible.
3. Supporting Returning Students: Universities are developing initiatives for students who previously left college without graduating. These programs offer academic advising, readmission assistance, financial aid guidance, career support, and emergency financial assistance to address barriers to completion.
4. Balancing Flexibility With Structure: Competency-based education allows students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills while accommodating different schedules and learning needs. However, students may still benefit from deadlines, instructor interaction, and structured learning activities. Combining flexibility with appropriate academic guidance can help learners remain engaged and make progress.
The article highlights the importance of addressing the obstacles that prevent students from completing their qualifications. By expanding transfer pathways, supporting returning learners, and combining flexible education with structured guidance, colleges can create more accessible routes to graduation.
This is the way to go.