Colleges and universities are redefining their role as more than degree-granting entities, positioning themselves as lifelong partners in learning and career growth. This shift emphasizes the need for flexible pathways, equitable access and a balance between academic integrity and career outcomes to ensure students remain competitive in a rapidly changing world. In this interview, Michael Horowitz discusses how institutions can evolve into lifelong learning partners and how academic programs can better align with labor market needs.
The EvoLLLution (Evo): How do you envision colleges and universities evolving their role from degree-granting institutions to lifelong learning partners, supporting students well beyond graduation?
Michael Horowitz (MH): I see institutions evolving into true lifelong learning partners by being student-focused from the very beginning—through admissions, graduation and beyond. If students have a powerful educational experience and strong launch into their careers, they’ll return to their alma mater for continued growth. This return is essential, as professional knowledge becomes outdated quickly after graduation.
At University of Western States, chiropractic alumni return for additional training in sports performance, and now, with growing awareness of mental health, many are seeking counseling degrees. Similarly, at The Chicago School, alumni consistently return for continuing education. When institutions position themselves as trusted resources, they naturally become lifelong partners in their students’ professional and personal development.
Evo: What structural or cultural shifts need to occur for higher ed to prioritize more career outcomes without compromising academic integrity?
MH: Career outcomes and academic integrity aren’t at odds. They complement each other. A liberal arts foundation can coexist with internships and fieldwork, giving students both breadth and practical experience. Students expect a return on investment, so institutions must align programs with labor market demand while upholding rigor.
In our system, we emphasize people-focused fields like social work, psychology and healthcare—professions that remain essential despite technological change. These degrees require licensure and continual upskilling, which preserves high standards. The key is coupling academic rigor with strong student support to prepare graduates for meaningful, enduring careers.
Evo: How can learner pathways be redesigned to improve the needed continuous upskilling and career advancement?
MH: Learner pathways must be designed with the understanding that education doesn’t end at graduation. Institutions should position themselves as continuous educators, offering certificates, specialty training and opportunities outside the classroom. For example, at our medical school in Kansas, we host an annual AI conference to help students and practitioners stay current as the field rapidly evolves.
These less formal learning experiences reinforce the need for ongoing upskilling. The reality is clear: It’s not that AI will replace professionals but that it will replace those who don’t adapt and advance their skills.
Evo: What are the most effective strategies for aligning academic programs with the evolving labor market to ensure a seamless transition into employment?
MH: Aligning academic programs with labor market needs starts with real-time data. We use tools to track where demand is growing and pair that with student interest—because both matter. Sometimes high-need fields don’t attract students unless they offer incentives like tuition subsidies. On the flip side, institutions often invest in low-performing programs instead of channeling resources into high-demand areas. The key is to double down where need and interest align. That’s why we’re opening a second medical school—healthcare demand and student interest remain exceptionally strong.
Evo: How can equity be embedded into these learner-to-earner pipelines to support such a diverse learner demographic?
MH: Embedding equity in learner-to-earner pipelines starts with recognizing who today’s students truly are. The media often highlights 18- to 22-year-olds living on campus, but the reality is different. Many undergraduates are working adults, often people in their 30s, balancing careers and families.
At our universities, we have no residence halls. Our typical student is a commuter or online student seeking flexible, career-focused education. That means designing programs that deliver high-quality online coursework paired with essential in-person experiences like practicums and internships. Even in fields like law, hybrid models are in higher demand than traditional on-campus programs. Convenience, flexibility and relevance are key to equitable access.
Evo: Is there anything you’d like to add?
MH: Institutions must embrace technology as a core part of teaching and learning. Faculty and advisors should help students use tools like ChatGPT not as shortcuts but as study aids and self-tutors. The goal is to show that technology can ease the path to learning rather than be a burden. It also reinforces the importance of continuous learning, delivered in flexible formats—online and otherwise—that fit the hectic, high-demand lives of today’s students and professionals. Staying attuned to these needs ensures education remains relevant and accessible.
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