The Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) received a Wave III-B Next Generation Learning Challenges grant in 2013 to focus on breakthrough models for enhancing college completion. The Direct2Degree program was designed to accelerate the rate of degree attainment in Kentucky — with degree paths that would be more cost-efficient for students than traditional paths. This research brief reviews the findings based on the first-hand experiences of those involved in the grant and subsequent pilot of the program — providing pros and cons of the self-paced, competency-based accelerated program, its policies, technology systems and student support systems.

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