ED is now inviting applications for the Educational Quality through Innovative Partnerships (EQUIP) experiment. EQUIP will evaluate innovation through partnerships between colleges, universities and non-traditional education providers, including intensive boot camps, which build skills in specific career fields, and award certificates that match employers' needs.
Eligible programs will lead to a degree or certificate, build students’ transferable academic credits, and provide students with the skills needed for entry and advancement in the job market. Participation will require partnership between a postsecondary institution, non-traditional providers, and a quality assurance entity in an effort to make student outcomes transparent in areas such as learning and employment, as well as providing tools for continuous quality improvement.
ED has already begun a conversation about innovation and quality in higher education, and encourages colleges, universities, non-traditional providers of education, and potential quality assurance partners to learn more about the program in the Federal Register notice. To be notified of updates,interested parties may also email ED at innovation@ed.gov.