Education

Indiana’s universities serve as engines of economic development by providing the skilled workforce that drives business growth, innovation, and competitiveness. At Indiana State University, we strive to align our academic programs with the needs of key industries in the state, such as advanced manufacturing, education, healthcare, logistics, and technology. Our partnerships with local businesses, government agencies, and community organizations help us equip students with the skills to address critical workforce gaps, keeping Indiana competitive and future-focused. The critical research conducted at universities further fosters innovation and attracts investment to the state, creating new opportunities for economic growth.

To retain our graduates, we need to demonstrate that Indiana offers both vibrant career opportunities and a high quality of life. At Indiana State, we focus on cultivating strong ties between students and employers through internships, co-op programs, and career fairs. We also highlight the affordability and opportunities in Indiana cities and communities, showing students that they can build successful, fulfilling lives here. By collaborating with industry leaders to create job placement pipelines, we can ensure that graduates can transition seamlessly into the workforce upon completing their degrees.

Higher education must adapt to meet the ever-changing needs of students and the workforce. At Indiana State University, we embrace flexibility by expanding our online and hybrid programs, offering high-quality education that fits into students’ personal and professional lives. We’re also introducing micro-credentials, certifications, and stackable degrees, enabling individuals to gain skills incrementally and return to education at various career stages. These flexible pathways help students stay competitive and prepared for a dynamic job market. This approach aligns with broader trends in higher education, where institutions are creating flexible programs to meet new demands.

Through our Preferred Partners Program, we actively engage with employers to co-design experiential learning programs that align with industry needs. This includes establishing internships and workstudy opportunities where students gain hands-on experience while contributing to the productivity of businesses. We also hold advisory board meetings with industry stakeholders to ensure our curriculum aligns with their expectations and that students graduate with practical, job-ready skills. These partnerships benefit both students, who gain valuable experience, and employers, who access a pipeline of talent ready to meet their workforce needs. Preferred Partners also qualify for tuition discounts, helping organizations and businesses to further upskill their current workforce.

To address the challenges posed by AI and automation, Indiana State is incorporating cutting-edge technology and interdisciplinary approaches into our curriculum. This includes offering programs in cybercriminology and security studies, intelligence analysis, data science, and other tech-driven fields. For example, the newly-named Robert E. Casey Cybercriminology and Intelligence Analysis Laboratory will serve as a hub for students to gain real-world experience by integrating cutting-edge technology and research opportunities to prepare students to tackle pressing challenges in the digital landscape. The lab will be a significant step forward in positioning Indiana State as a cybersecurity and intelligence education leader by fostering innovation and career readiness. We also emphasize career-related skills like critical thinking, communication, and adaptability, which remain essential in an automated world. By continuously updating our curriculum in collaboration with industry leaders and implementing the use of campus AI Task Forces/Committees to remain cutting-edge, we ensure that our graduates are prepared for the jobs of tomorrow, not just the jobs of today.

The value of a college degree lies in equipping individuals with essential skills, knowledge, and networks for success in today’s world. We enhance this value through the Indiana State Advantage Program, which ensures that qualifying students receive guaranteed financial support to help cover tuition costs and reduce student debt, while providing students with Experience Grants to support out-of-classroom learning opportunities. This initiative makes a college education more affordable and accessible to students from all backgrounds. Coupled with career focused programs, transparent outcomes, and robust support services, we help students build a strong return on investment in their education.