Virginia State University (VSU) has announced a revolutionary collaboration with MedCerts, the leading provider of online career training in allied healthcare and information technology. This alliance aims to enrich educational opportunities for VSU students and citizens throughout Virginia. MedCerts, a subsidiary of Stride, Inc., has a history of industry knowledge ensures that VSU’s related programmes remain current and relevant to the rapidly evolving healthcare and information technology sectors.
This partnership marks a significant step in creating a seamless pathway for students to acquire specialized knowledge and skills in high-demand fields. The University’s commitment to preparing students for success in their chosen careers is further strengthened with access to MedCerts’ more than 35 fully online short-term training programmes that can lead to credentials and certificate programmes.
MedCerts, known for its commitment to quality education and dedication to preparing individuals for the workforce, shares a common vision with VSU. Through this joint effort, both organizations reaffirm their commitment to educational quality, workforce development, and improving career possibilities for Virginia students and communities.
Speaking on the partnership, Dr. Tia A. Minnis, Interim Provost & Vice President of Academic Affairs at Virginia State University, said:
This collaboration with MedCerts is a crucial component of our strategy to expand the VSU academic infrastructure to include industry-recognized professional certifications. It aligns perfectly with our overarching mission to provide continuous workforce development and employment readiness for our students and residents across the Commonwealth in the healthcare and information technology sectors. These two fields are pivotal to the region’s economic growth.
Virginia State University, established in 1882, is committed to offering accessible, high-quality education to a diverse student population. With a mission of preparing its more than 5,000 students to be 21st-century innovators and future leaders, the institution offers a comprehensive range of academic programmes aimed at providing individuals with the knowledge and perspective they need to make positive changes in the world. With a rich history and a forward-looking approach to education, VSU stands as a beacon of opportunity and advancement in the heart of Virginia.
Rafael Castaneda, SVP of Strategic Partnerships & Workforce Development of MedCerts, commented on the initiative:
The combination of VSU’s academic expertise and MedCerts’ industry-specific knowledge will undoubtedly benefit learners in the Commonwealth. As the healthcare and information technology sectors evolve, this partnership ensures that VSU students are equipped with the skills and certifications needed to thrive in these dynamic industries.
MedCerts delivers career training through HD video lectures, virtual simulations, games, animations, and other resources. Since 2009, the company has developed over 50 career programmes, trained and upskilled over 80,000 individuals nationwide, and collaborated with over 500 American Job Centers and 1,000 healthcare institutions to establish talent pipelines. In 2023, the platform introduced its Partner Solutions brand, which focuses on forming connections among students, job seekers, businesses, higher education institutions, and workforce agencies. This new company offers a variety of relationship arrangements, including recruitment, reseller, content licensing, and more.