Virginia State University Expands Accessible Education Efforts Through New Partnership With Workforce Edge

The partnership will open new career pathways for Workforce Edge employees through access to degree programs at VSU.

Virginia State University is proud to announce a new partnership with Workforce Edge, a full-service education administration provider powered by Strategic Education, Inc. The partnership will grant Workforce Edge partner employees increased access to a wide range of the University’s degree programs.

"This program is designed to empower employees through education with the support of employer tuition assistance programs,” said Dr. Gabrielle D. Pina, Director of Academic Communications and Public Relations, VSU Office of the Provost. “Our tailored online offerings, including the MBA, Master of Social Work, RN to BSN, Bachelor of Individualized Studies, and hospitality management degree programs, are strategically developed to enhance career trajectories and flexibly accommodate the busy lives of working professionals. This initiative not only aligns with our commitment to extend lifelong learning opportunities but also underscores our dedication to supporting the professional growth and personal development of individuals across various sectors."

Workforce Edge helps employers connect employee aspirations with organizational goals to create a competitive advantage for themselves in the marketplace. The platform is the central hub for employers to custom-build, manage, and track their benefits program, all in one place. The collaboration with VSU further expands Workforce Edge’s network of participating colleges and universities, including its existing partnerships with several HBCUs.

“Workforce Edge is excited to partner with Virginia State University to continue providing access to relevant degree pathway options for partner employees,” said Karl McDonnell, CEO of Strategic Education, Inc. “We’re also very proud to be growing our network of HBCU schools. These institutions provide such vital space for students who have been historically underrepresented in traditional higher education.”

VSU has always been strongly committed to providing accessible education through different initiatives. Last year, the University began accepting applications through the Virginia College Affordability Network (VCAN), a program that offers free tuition to qualifying Pell-eligible students. Additionally, similar to its partnership with Workforce Edge, VSU partnered with Amazon to offer prepaid tuition and reimbursement for books and fees to hourly employees at Amazon who wish to pursue coursework at the University.

Qualifying Workforce Edge users became eligible to enroll in VSU’s undergraduate and graduate courses in June 2024. VSU looks forward to continuing its collaboration with Workforce Edge to provide accessible, impactful education opportunities for its partner employees.