Colleges are increasingly turning to certificate programs to deliver in-demand training and prepare students for employment opportunities. Though bachelor’s and associate degrees typically have stronger long-term outcomes for students, high-quality certificates can provide valuable skills at an affordable price. The new federal Workforce Pell financial aid program can accelerate the growth of high-quality, short-term certificate programs, as long as state leaders are equipped to implement the program in ways that maximize value to constituents and employers.
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Maximizing Workforce Pell Grants to Deliver Value for Students and Employers
Published
Jan 21, 2026