The LeBron James Family Foundation (LJFF) School of Education in the Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences at The University of Akron (UA) is proud to announce the launch of the Bachelor of Arts in Community and Workforce Education, a degree tailored for students seeking careers in education beyond traditional classroom teaching.
The B.A. in Community and Workforce Education is designed for students interested in non-licensure teaching and training, instructional design, and community and workforce program development careers. Often referred to as training and development specialists, professionals in this field play a vital role in community organizations, business and industry training programs, helping to develop and deliver effective educational and training initiatives.
“This program reflects our dedication to supporting students who want to work in education but don’t necessarily see themselves as licensed classroom teachers,” said Dr. Renee Mudrey, associate professor and assistant director of the LJFF School of Education. “It provides a pathway for individuals passionate about education to thrive in roles such as workforce training, adult education and instructional design, meeting a growing demand for these skills.”
The degree prepares graduates for diverse roles at the county, state and organizational levels, as well as in private organizations. Students will also benefit from opportunities to explore specialized fields, such as military workforce programs, supported by a recent grant.
This new program was developed in response to extensive market research and collaboration with key community and corporate partners. These stakeholders provided invaluable insights into the need for education professionals who can lead and innovate in non-traditional roles. “The feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive,” said Mudrey. “Our partners confirmed that this program will help fill critical gaps in the workforce by preparing individuals for specialized roles in training and development.”
The program launch comes at a pivotal time, addressing shifts in the education landscape and the increasing demand for professionals in non-traditional education roles. It provides new opportunities for individuals to pursue impactful careers outside the classroom.
“We are thrilled to introduce the new Community and Workforce Education degree, starting in fall 2025, and look forward to seeing our graduates make a lasting impact in their communities,” stated Dr. Gary Holliday, director, LJFF School of Education.
UA remains committed to offering traditional licensure pathways for students pursuing teaching careers while expanding its offerings to serve the broader education workforce.
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Media contact: Cristine Boyd, 330-972-6476, cboyd@uakron.edu