The Credit/Non-credit Divide: Breaking Down the Wall

Abstract

Programs awarding academic credit and programs awarding continuing education credit coexist on university campuses but often do not communicate or collaborate. This article explores the components of a successful program that reaches across the credit–noncredit divide to engage and serve the community. While most theoretical models are based on a macro level of engagement with stakeholders in the highest level of the organizations, this partnership involves collaboration and cooperation on a micro level within the institution and is focused on service to the individual education participant. This model of partnership between continuing education and academic credit education benefits a wide variety of stakeholders and ultimately benefits both the community and the academic institution.