Grambling State University announced Friday the launch of Grambling Global Academy, a major new initiative to help adults finish their bachelor’s degree through access to low-cost, online courses no matter where they reside.
The new initiative is a partnership with StraighterLine, which provides affordable, self-paced courses to help learners persist toward their degree.
“The bachelor’s degree represents a lifeline to economic security for millions of workers facing uncertainty during the current economic crisis, and state universities have a responsibility to help working adults with some college and no degree get across the finish line,” said President Rick Gallot.
“This new initiative is about helping learners across the country — including military service members and working adults who have relocated for work — to conveniently access and complete the coursework they need to finish the degree,” said Dr. Roshunda Belton, chair of the Department of History.
According to a 2019 report by Strada Education Network and Lumina Foundation, more than 31 million U.S. adults have left college without receiving a credential. In the wake of the global pandemic, the recession continues to disproportionately impact those without a degree more than others. According to September data from the Federal Reserve, the unemployment rate was nearly double for those with some college but no degree, compared to those with a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Grambling Global Academy will be available to current General Studies students and returning students to Grambling State University. Tuition is $125 per month and delivered through the StraighterLine platform. In addition to access to self-paced, mobile-friendly courses, the all-in subscription price includes e-textbooks, online tutoring and access to support services seven days a week. Students can begin enrolling now in Grambling Global Academy.
“The research is clear that completing a college degree makes an enormous difference in terms of long-term career potential, earnings, and economic security—and this moment of economic uncertainty is a critical time for millions of returning learners to complete their studies,” said Burck Smith, StraighterLine’s founder and CEO. “Grambling State has recognized that by providing lowcost, low-risk courses, learners from across the globe can continue their education and get back on track toward a bachelor’s degree.
