Savvas Learning Company and UMGC Form a Groundbreaking Partnership for High School Students

Exciting Educational Alliance between Savvas Learning Company and UMGC

In a groundbreaking partnership, Savvas Learning Company has joined forces with the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) to offer high school students a unique opportunity to earn college credits through dual-enrollment courses. This strategic alliance aims to make higher education more accessible and affordable, especially at a time when college tuition is a significant concern for many families.

The Outlier by Savvas dual-enrollment program allows students to enroll in high-quality online courses that not only meet the educational standards of K-12 districts but also provide transferable college credits. This initiative makes it possible for students to even receive a 25% tuition discount for those who wish to continue their education at UMGC after completing their Outlier courses.

What This Means for High School Students

The collaboration between Savvas and UMGC is a game-changer in educational accessibility. Students taking advantage of the Outlier courses can earn college credits early, helping them transition smoothly into higher education. High school students often feel overwhelmed by the prospect of entering college; this program enables them to familiarize themselves with college-level coursework while still in a supportive high school environment.

The flexible, asynchronous courses offered by Outlier are crafted by top educators and are accessible on the Savvas Realize digital platform. This means that students can engage in their studies at their own pace, making education more adaptable to their individual needs. Furthermore, research indicates that students who participate in dual-enrollment programs tend to have higher graduation rates and are more likely to enroll in and complete a bachelor's degree.

Bethlam Forsa, CEO of Savvas Learning Company, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are proud to partner with UMGC in this strategic alliance which further expands access to college pathways for more high school students.”

The Role of UMGC in the Partnership

UMGC is renowned for its commitment to serving diverse learner populations, particularly working adults and military service members. The university has built a reputation for offering affordable and career-focused online programs. In fact, with over 100,000 learners per year, UMGC has become a vital educational resource, especially in Maryland, where it stands as the largest provider of postsecondary education.

Chris Motz, Chief Partnerships Officer at UMGC, emphasized the institution’s mission by stating, “By teaming up with Savvas, we're putting the college experience within reach of more high school students, which furthers our mission of inspiring hope, empowering dreams, and transforming lives one student at a time.” This partnership is not only about providing education but about empowering students to pursue their dreams without the burden of escalating costs.

A Broader Impact on K-12 Education

The Outlier dual-enrollment program particularly appeals to school districts looking for ways to enhance their curriculum with high-quality college-level courses. As educational needs evolve, partnerships like this one are essential for preparing students for future academic and career challenges. They democratize access to higher education, allowing students from diverse backgrounds to pursue pathways that were once out of reach.

Both Savvas Learning Company and UMGC embody the idea that education should inspire and uplift, fostering environments where learners can thrive. This collaboration marks a significant step toward greater equity in education, making it possible for high school students to gain valuable experience while also earning credits that can save them time and money in their pursuit of a college degree.

In conclusion, the alliance between Savvas Learning Company and UMGC is a pivotal development in the landscape of education. It not only offers practical solutions for students but also represents a forward-thinking approach to tackling the issues of affordability and accessibility in higher education. As this partnership unfolds, it will undoubtedly set a precedent for future collaborations in the educational sector.