Pepperdine University and 2U, Inc., a global leader in education technology and the company behind the online learning platform edX, has recently announced a significant expansion of their partnership with the development of six new online degree programmes. These courses, many in licensure-based fields, include a Master of Science in Education, a Master of Arts in Teaching, three doctoral programmes in education, and a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology—the first such programme at Pepperdine’s newly established College of Health Science.
All courses will be developed through 2U’s flexible collaboration approach; the MS in Education programme is anticipated to begin in 2024, and the remaining disciplines will be completed in 2025. 2U has partnered with Pepperdine to provide 12 online degree programmes. Since the partnership started in 2017, more than 7,000 students have signed up for the courses.
Speaking about the development, Dr. Farzin Madjidi, Dean of Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP), said:
Our partnership with 2U has been transformative, allowing us to extend our mission of purpose, service, and leadership into the digital realm. These new programs will enable us to serve more students and prepare them for meaningful roles across these critical sectors.
According to Jay Brewster, Provost and Chief Academic Officer of Pepperdine University, the United States is facing a persistent shortage of highly trained educators, and employment growth for speech-language pathologists is projected to reach 21% by 2031. Together, 2U and Pepperdine are addressing these workforce gaps and empowering aspiring professionals with the comprehensive skills and in-person training needed to obtain licensure and excel in these high-demand fields.
2U’s network ensures that students living in all 50 states can complete essential in-person training hours within their communities, reflecting 2U’s commitment to high-quality, flexible education that meets the urgent need for skilled professionals. Students supported by 2U’s placement team have completed over 32 million hours of hands-on training.
Andrew Hermalyn, President of 2U’s Degree Programme Segment, stated:
Through our ongoing partnership with Pepperdine, we are bringing together 2U’s services and technology with Pepperdine’s academic excellence to meet critical professional needs in healthcare and education. With these new degrees, we are deepening our commitment to equipping students with the practical skills and training necessary to succeed in these essential fields, reinforcing our role as leaders in workforce development.
2U has spent 15 years advancing the technology and innovation to deliver world-class learning outcomes at scale. Through its global online learning platform, edX, the company connects more than 86 million people with thousands of affordable, career-relevant learning opportunities in partnership with 260 leading universities, institutions, and industry experts. From free courses to complete degrees, the platform creates a better future for all through high-quality online education.
