Leaders from the University of Texas and Arizona State University Collaborate on Increasing Higher Education Accessibility

In a groundbreaking partnership aimed at expanding access to higher education, Chancellor Donde Plowman of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and Arizona State University President Michael Crow came together to discuss their innovative collaboration at the ASU+GSV Summit. The annual conference focuses on global education innovation and serves as a platform for leaders in the field to share ideas and best practices.

The partnership between UT and ASU will focus on scaling digital teaching and learning opportunities to reach millions of residents in Tennessee and Arizona. By combining resources and expertise, the two universities aim to better serve students who may not be able to participate in traditional campus settings, as well as working adults seeking further education.

The collaboration addresses the diverse needs of modern learners and aims to empower individuals on their educational journey while also addressing the evolving needs of the workforce. With nearly 1 million people in Tennessee holding some college credit but no degree, the partnership seeks to provide flexible educational options to meet the demands of today’s higher education landscape.

UT currently offers over 70 fully online degree and certificate programs, with plans to launch additional programs in the coming months. The partnership with ASU will further enhance UT’s offerings and infrastructure, allowing for continued growth and innovation in the digital learning space.

Both Plowman and Crow emphasized the mission-driven nature of their institutions and the shared goal of advancing economic development and access to education. The partnership with ASU represents a significant step forward for UT in its commitment to academic excellence and dedication to serving a wider range of learners.