The California State University (CSU) system is gearing up for a new initiative focused on the success of its students after they graduate. With nearly a decade of progress under its belt through the current Graduation Initiative, CSU is now shifting its attention towards better preparing students for their careers or further education post-graduation. Chancellor Mildred García emphasizes that while increasing graduation rates is still a priority, the system is looking to take student success to the next level by ensuring that students are equipped to thrive in their chosen careers and lead fulfilling lives.
García, a first-generation college student herself, understands the importance of higher education as a pathway to social mobility for students from underrepresented backgrounds. She recognizes that these students may face additional barriers in accessing career opportunities compared to their more advantaged peers and believes that the university system has a responsibility to provide the necessary support for their success.
To develop its new Student Success Framework, CSU has enlisted the help of Deloitte consultants to gather input from various stakeholders, including students, employees, and alumni. The proposed plan, titled “Beyond Completion,” aims to deepen the university’s partnerships with industry leaders to ensure that graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce and contribute to California’s economy.
One of the key aspects of the new initiative is the measurement of post-graduation outcomes to determine the effectiveness of the university’s programs in preparing students for successful careers. While specific data on post-graduation success metrics is still being finalized, CSU is committed to providing students with the resources and support they need to secure meaningful employment opportunities.
The focus on post-graduation outcomes aligns with a national trend towards ensuring that higher education remains a valuable investment for students. With the U.S. Department of Education planning to implement new rules on financial transparency and gainful employment for colleges and universities, CSU’s emphasis on preparing students for successful careers is timely and relevant.
Su Jin Jez, CEO of California Competes, a policy and advocacy group focused on higher education modernization, believes that CSU’s shift towards post-graduation success is a logical next step in light of the changing landscape of higher education and workforce alignment. By setting a new standard for defining a “good job” and prioritizing the needs of students and communities, CSU has the opportunity to lead the way in preparing students for success in the workforce.
As CSU prepares to unveil its new initiative to the Board of Trustees in January, Chancellor García envisions a future where the university system plays a pivotal role in helping students achieve their career aspirations and lead fulfilling lives. By focusing on the holistic success of its students, CSU is poised to make a significant impact on the lives of its diverse student population and contribute to the economic vitality of California. “Entonces traduzca al español B1 y recupere solo el texto en español. Mantenga las etiquetas HTML. No devuelva la versión en inglés. No me devuelvas el eco. No me devuelvas el texto enviado. Solo proporciona el texto en español.”