IECRM, Emily Griffith Technical College, and CSU Global Join Forces
A bridge to the future for apprentices
For the first time ever, IECRM apprentices have the ability to transfer credits from a completed apprenticeship to earn a bachelor’s degree at CSU Global.
Through its partnership with Emily Griffith Technical College, the Independent Electrical Contractors Rocky Mountain (IECRM) apprentice training program has joined with Colorado State University’s Global Campus (CSU Global) to provide greater educational opportunities and services to students seeking to pursue subsequent higher education upon completion of their Emily Griffith apprenticeship program, including the Four-Year IECRM Apprenticeship Training Program.
IECRM graduates will have earned up to 53 college credits that may be applied to a CSU Global Bachelor’s degree of their choice. “Fifty-three credits is nearly half of the credits needed for a bachelor’s degree and amounts to cost savings of up to $20,000,” says Paul Lingo, IECRM Training Director. “Getting an apprenticeship itself is a great value and sets you up for a successful career.”
Apprentices are co-enrolled in IECRM and Emily Griffith Technical College. Emily Griffith grants the college credit for the coursework and the on-the-job-training (OJT) that apprentices complete. Credits earned at Emily Griffith can be applied toward a degree at any of Colorado’s community colleges, however those degrees are limited to associates of applied science in applied technology. Due to the unique partnership between Emily Griffith and CSU Global, these credits can now be transferred toward a bachelor’s degree in any area of study.
“This is such a terrific opportunity for our apprentice students,” says Paul, IECRM Training Director. “In the past, credits could be transferred but they would have to be applied to a similar degree program. Now through this partnership, credits can be applied to any of the degrees offered by CSU-Global.”
Additionally, transfer students will not be required to repeat competencies already achieved. Grades of a C or higher will be accepted and applied toward the appropriate degree or university certificate programs will be eligible.
“Getting a bachelor’s post-apprenticeship can go far toward maximizing the role a graduate plays, expands career horizons, opens doors for leadership, provides the skills to be your own boss, and drives your career to the next level,” continued Lingo. Also, IECRM graduates will receive a 10 percent discount on tuition through this partnership arrangement. “The credits and 10 percent discount off tuition are retroactive and up to 10-year alumni qualify for this benefit,” he adds.
CSU Global also will award a 10 percent affiliate tuition discount to all qualified Emily Griffith graduates, including alumni from up to 10 years. Reverse transfer of credits may also be applied to complete a Colorado associate degree. Plus, students and graduates transferring to CSU Global will receive advisory services from CSU Global to assist in successful entry and program completion. IECRM President and CEO Marilyn Akers Stansbury adds, “IECRM is thrilled to build bridges to take our students forward in their careers and studies. The partnerships with CSU Global and Emily Griffith add tremendous value for our members and students.”
Learn More at the IECRM Open House Event on Friday, August 16 at the Main IECRM Campus in Northglenn fro 3 – 6pm.