The University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), University of Nebraska at Kearney, University of Nebraska at Omaha, and the UNL College of Engineering have joined forces to provide discounted access to the global online learning platform Coursera for select alumni. This partnership aims to offer alumni the opportunity to upskill and reskill with industry leaders such as Google, IBM, Microsoft, and Salesforce through bite-size learning opportunities.
Kathy Farrell, the James Jr. and Susan Stuart Endowed Dean of the College of Business at UNL, expressed the college’s commitment to lifelong learning by offering Coursera Career Academy to alumni. This initiative allows graduates to continue developing their skills through online courses that align with the evolving demands of today’s workforce. Alumni can stay competitive in the business world and enhance their engagement with Nebraska in a new, creative way.
Select NU alumni will have access to branded microcredentials within the Coursera Career Academy library. These microcredentials enable alumni to pursue incremental credentials at a low cost and at their own pace. They can choose from career credentials in Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, UX Design, Application Developer, and Social Media Marketer. Hands-on projects and interactive assessments help apply skills in real-world scenarios and earn credentials to strengthen their resumes.
Michelle Trawick, Dean of the UNO College of Business, emphasized the importance of providing easily accessible opportunities for graduates to continue growing their skills. The partnership with Coursera aims to help alumni polish their NU credentials, stay ahead of the workforce, and navigate the competitive job market. The goal is to equip students and alumni with specialized knowledge, high-demand professional skills, and a willingness to learn to stand out in their careers.
The agreement between the universities and Coursera is part of a commitment to providing high-quality training that prepares learners for the demands of today’s workforce. Students can access hundreds of online courses and earn professional certificates and specializations through Coursera Career Academy, all of which are entirely online.
Frank Tenkorang, Associate Dean of Business & Technology at UNK, highlighted the benefits that students have already experienced through the Career Academy courses embedded in their fall classes. Over 270 students have gained skills in Excel, CRM, Power BI, Python, and Gen AI skills. The Career Academy offers more than 60 professional certificates across various disciplines, with the number continuing to grow. Alumni licenses provide flexibility for students to complete certificates after graduation.
The Career Academy also offers career discovery resources to help students learn about entry-level roles, skill requirements, build confidence, and develop a portfolio of work. This initiative demonstrates the University of Nebraska’s commitment to preparing students for the global workforce.
Lance C. Pérez, the Fred Hunzeker Dean of Engineering at the College of Engineering, expressed excitement about offering additional learning opportunities for alumni in engineering, computing, and construction professions. Coursera provides a flexible and respected tool for alumni to enhance their skills and advance their careers, aligning with the college’s mission to solve global problems.
Each college will reach out to select alumni to register for the Coursera Career Academy starting on January 1, 2025. This opportunity allows alumni to access Coursera Career Academy Courses and continue their professional development. To learn more about Coursera Career Academy, interested individuals can visit the provided link.
