(Hammond and Westville, IN) - Purdue University Northwest and Ivy Tech Community College statewide are strengthening accessibility and affordability for college students pursuing hospitality and tourism careers through several academic transfer pathways.

The institutions have introduced three transfer pathways that provide opportunities for Ivy Tech students completing hospitality and culinary arts-focused technical certificates to apply and transfer eligible credit hours toward PNW’s Hospitality and Tourism Management bachelor’s degree program.

Officials said the partnership provides college students a seamless track for flexibly earning stackable credentials, gaining valuable hands-on, career-focused learning experience and preparing for hospitality workforce needs.

“We understand students seek flexibility and affordability in navigating a college education experience that provides them both relevant skills for their chosen fields and opportunities for practical experiences through classwork and outside employment. PNW and Ivy Tech share a commitment to helping students earn credentials that set them up for success,” said David Taylor, Dean of the PNW College of Business.

Holy Gould, Department Chair for the School of Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management at the Ivy Tech campus in Lake County said the pathways position students to take advantage of career opportunities helped by a growing tourist and hospitality industry in the region.

“We want our students to develop valuable skills, focus on their career goals and earn credentials that make them employable in Northwest Indiana without having to leave the area to pursue their education,” she said.