MedCerts and CSU Pueblo Launch Partnership to Expand Career Training Across Colorado
Release Date: August 20, 2026
CSU Pueblo News
MedCerts and CSU Pueblo Launch Partnership to Expand Career Training Across Colorado
New collaboration brings healthcare and IT certifications to underserved rural communities
August 18, 2026
Colorado is moving to close a critical gap in its healthcare and information technology workforce. A new partnership between MedCerts, a nationally recognized leader in online career training, and Colorado State University Pueblo's Division of Extended Studies puts short-term credentials within reach of workers in rural communities across the state who need them most.
Short-term certifications are drawing more students than traditional degree programs. According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, enrollment in short-term credentials grew 6.6 percent in 2025, outpacing both associate and bachelor's degree programs. CSU Pueblo recognized that demand and built a direct pathway into the workforce.
"Our collaboration with MedCerts enables us to expand access to high-quality, short-term credentials in some of Colorado's most underserved communities," said Hawley Young, Rural Outreach and Partnerships Specialist at CSU Pueblo. "This partnership puts workforce-aligned training directly in front of students who need it most, helping them gain the skills employers are actively looking for."
MedCerts provides interactive online learning in healthcare and IT fields. Since its founding, the company has supported over 100,000 students in gaining industry-recognized credentials. As part of Stride, Inc.'s portfolio of education brands, MedCerts works with employers and educational institutions to connect learners to career opportunities.
Jennifer Kolb, Vice President of Partnerships and Workforce Development at MedCerts, sees the partnership as a natural fit. "Our mission is to create pathways into healthcare and IT beyond a traditional degree," Kolb said. "CSU Pueblo's reach into rural Colorado makes them the right partner to help us get there. Together, we can help more students gain access to life-changing career opportunities."
The partnership opens enrollment in MedCerts' healthcare and IT programs through CSU Pueblo's Division of Extended Studies. Students interested in the programs can learn more at csupueblo.medcerts.com .
About Colorado State University Pueblo
CSU Pueblo is a regional comprehensive university and designated Hispanic-Serving Institution located in Southern Colorado. With an enrollment of over 4,000 students, the university offers more than 30 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in engineering, business, nursing, and the sciences. The university serves a diverse, first-generation student body and prepares graduates for leadership and success in a changing global economy.
About MedCerts
MedCerts provides online career training in healthcare and information technology. Through interactive learning, expert instruction, and industry partnerships, MedCerts has helped more than 100,000 students earn credentials for in-demand roles. MedCerts Partner Solutions works with employers, higher education institutions, and workforce agencies to connect training with career opportunities. MedCerts is a portfolio brand of Stride, Inc., a leader in online education.
For more information: Visit csupueblo.medcerts.com .
