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New Jersey's Some College, No Degree Initiative: A Game Changer

In a remarkable development for higher education in New Jersey, more than 13,500 adults who had previously halted their college journeys are now re-enrolled, thanks to the innovative Some College, No Degree (SCND) initiative. Launched by the New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education (OSHE) in collaboration with ReUp Education, this initiative aims to address the barriers faced by adults wishing to complete their degrees after putting their education on hold.

A Closer Look at the Initiative

The SCND initiative targets New Jersey residents who had some college education but withdrew before obtaining their degrees. With a staggering 840,000 adults in the state fitting this description, the initiative strives to make higher education more accessible and affordable, ultimately aiming to enhance social mobility and economic competitiveness. This targeted approach has led to a substantial impact, including the recapture of around $74 million in tuition revenue for participating colleges and over 1,400 graduates to date.

Governor Phil Murphy emphasized the transformative potential of this program, stating, "The Some College, No Degree initiative is a game changer for New Jerseyans who had to put their higher education pursuits on hold." The initiative represents a collective effort by 22 colleges and universities across New Jersey, providing a supportive framework for returning students.

How It Works

Central to the success of the SCND initiative is its strategic re-enrollment marketplace. This platform connects eligible stopped-out learners with guided support and education options tailored to their individual needs. Over 280,000 adults can now access coaching, thereby breaking down the significant barriers of cost and time management that often prevent them from returning to school.

Key Achievements

According to the latest report, the initiative has demonstrated outstanding results:

• - Re-enrollment Scale: It is noted that an average of 24 touch points—comprising texts, emails, and meetings—are required for a stopped-out student to re-enroll. Since 2023, SCND facilitated re-enrollment for 13,500 learners and initiated nearly 28,000 individuals to explore their return to complete their degrees.
• - Pipelines to Employment: Participants have pursued degree programs linked to sectors that are actively seeking skilled workers, including healthcare, engineering, and computer science.
• - Reducing Barriers: The program effectively addressed the top concerns impeding students’ return: financial aid connection accounted for 51%, while 22% cited time constraints.
• - Economic Impact: The re-enrollment results are projected to positively influence New Jersey’s economy, with each new graduate estimated to contribute approximately $137,793 to the state’s annual GDP and create an average of 7.1 additional jobs.

A Holistic Approach to Education

This initiative is a testament to the potential successes of collaborative efforts between public agencies and private partners. Dr. Brian Bridges, New Jersey Secretary of Higher Education, commented on the achievement: "New Jersey is creating a resilient infrastructure that empowers residents to finish what they started and contribute more dynamically to our workforce and communities."

The SCND initiative has garnered national attention, having been acknowledged with the State Higher Education Executive Officers Association's 2025 Exceptional Agency Award. This recognition highlights the strategic leadership of OSHE in their re-enrollment efforts.

Future Outlook

Both state legislative leaders and educational officials acknowledge the importance of this initiative in supporting adult learners. According to Senator Joe Cryan, this initiative is making a genuine difference in the lives of working individuals who have faced interruptions in their education due to various challenges. Assemblywoman Linda Carter echoed similar sentiments by emphasizing the necessity of expanding access to higher education.

In conclusion, New Jersey's Some College, No Degree initiative demonstrates a compelling model for other states aiming to increase higher education access and completion rates among adult learners. By focusing on learner needs and industry requirements, it is redefining the relationship between education and workforce potential. To learn more about its impacts and opportunities, visit ReUp Education's resource page.