Dual Mission Institutions

​A dual mission institution is a rapidly growing type of postsecondary education that offers bachelor’s degrees, career-focused associate degrees, and workforce training programs within a college or university. Representing a new model for higher education, dual mission institutions are distinguished by a strong regional focus, innovative and flexible credentialing practices, a commitment to open access and affordability, and deep partnerships with local employers and industry.​

Several colleges and universities in Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, North Dakota, and Utah publicly identify as dual mission institutions, and many more throughout the country are moving toward or already operating under the dual mission model. The American Council on Education (ACE) is aiding these institutions through convenings, community building, and collaboration, and it is also developing a research base that will enable identification of and support for dual mission institutions nationwide.