CMU announces education partnership with Kent County

Central Michigan University has launched a new partnership with Kent County, Michigan, expanding access to higher education for county employees and their families.

The partnership provides a 15 percent tuition discount on CMU's online programs to eligible Kent County employees, their spouses, and dependents. The discount has the potential to save county employees thousands of dollars on a CMU degree program.

"Partnerships like this are exactly how we make higher education more accessible," said Rob VanDorin, executive director of business and community outreach at Central Michigan University. "Kent County's employees serve our communities every day. We're proud to help them and their families reach their educational goals."

Kent County employees provide a broad range of public services to the 660,000 residents that call Michigan’s fourth largest county home, from law enforcement and public health to parks and government operations.

This new partnership reflects a shared commitment between CMU and Kent County to invest in the professional growth of the county’s workforce.

“Our employees are one of Kent County’s greatest strengths and investing in their continued growth benefits both our organization and the community we serve,” said Al Vanderberg, Kent County administrator/controller. “This partnership with Central Michigan University will make higher education more accessible and help employees and their families pursue their educational and professional goals. We’re grateful to CMU for recognizing the value of investing in those who serve our community.”

Employees and their families will have access to more than 90 fully online programs, including CMU’s Master of Public Administration, which will help employees advance their career in public service. Complementary programs, such as Organizational Leadership, Project Management, and others will provide county employees with the skills and knowledge needed to enhance support for Kent County residents.

Explore CMU's Kent County partnership page for eligibility and details.