Program Will Help Bucks County Students Complete Degrees & Certificates At No Cost

Bucks Countians have a rare opportunity to resume their higher education or career training programs thanks to a grant awarded to the Bucks County Workforce and Economic Development.

The Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry’s Near Completer Grant Program has allocated $1,333,268 to assist students who had to pause their studies.

Eligible students may have the chance to complete their education or training at no cost.

The Bucks County Aim and Attain Near Completer grant targets residents who started a college or training program, maintained a minimum 2.0 GPA, and exited their program after June 1, 2021 without completing a degree or certificate.

Those who are eligible can enroll in the spring semester courses if they conclude by June 30, 2024.

The grant not only provides an opportunity for free education or training but also includes benefits like free tuition assistance, mentorship, tutorial services, technology resources, free books, educational supplies, and career services specialist guidance.

The Community College of Philadelphia and Lancaster Bible College have recently announced their participation in this program, joining four other higher-education institutions already in partnership with Bucks County Workforce and Economic Development: Bucks County Community College, Delaware Valley University, Holy Family University, and Pennco Technical Schools.

Billie Barnes, the executive director of the Bucks County Workforce Development Board, highlighted the program.

“The Aim and Attain program is open to unemployed as well as employed individuals who require training to advance in their current field or transition to a different field,” she stated. “The award may be applied toward completing a degree as well as certificate programs focusing on occupational skills.”

Participants can attend any postsecondary institution in Pennsylvania that meets the program’s criteria and do it either in-person or online.

Additional supportive services, such as childcare, transportation, or internet access reimbursement, may be available through participating schools and PA CareerLink Bucks County.

Those interested in the program can learn more or register by calling 267-580-3501 (TTY relay dial 711), or by emailing info@buckscareerlink.org or TJohnson@buckscounty.org. Applications are available at BucksCounty.gov/AimAndAttain.