Work-Based Learning Experiences in Higher Education

The bill creates the work-based learning consortium pilot program (pilot program) in the department of higher education (department). The purpose of the pilot program is to develop and expand the integration of work-based learning experiences for students enrolled in higher education.

On or before July 1, 2026, or within 90 days after the department receives sufficient funding, the department shall convene a consortium consisting of a group of representatives from institutions of higher education to:

• Share best practices on improving access to quality work-based learning opportunities for students;
• Help participating institutions of higher education meet workforce needs in Colorado and connect academic learning with real-world experiences through career preparation and skill development for students; and
• Make recommendations to the general assembly and institutions of higher education on the best practices.

Subject to available appropriations, at the end of the 3-year pilot program, the consortium shall complete and submit a report to the education committees of the house of representatives and the senate, or their successor committees. The report must include:

• A description of the consortium's findings and recommendations;
• Details on the consortium's impacts on participating institutions of higher education and the effects of creating additional work-based learning activities on students, faculty, and employers; and
• Recommendations for statutory changes, financial resources, department policy changes, and institution of higher education policy changes necessary to improve successful work-based learning opportunities for students in institutions of higher education.

Funds appropriated to the commission on higher education (commission) may be used by the commission to cover the costs of work-based learning requirements for students who are required to complete credit-bearing work-based learning requirements to graduate from an institution of higher education.

(Note: This summary applies to this bill as introduced.)