‘Sprint’ accelerated degrees gain traction as colleges and employers pilot paramedic, surgical‑tech and other workforce tracks

Montana University System staff and two‑year college leaders reported early evidence that small cohorts in accelerated, industry‑aligned "sprint" degree tracks can produce fast, job‑relevant credentials and attract students who might not otherwise enroll.

Deputy Commissioner Teal summarized three active sprint cohorts — paramedic (one‑year degree), human services (2.5‑year accelerated degree) and surgical technologist — and announced a second wave of fall launches including diesel technology, construction management and an education‑degree 'grow‑your‑own' track. "Students can be very successful in an accelerated timeline," presenters said, pointing to early retention data.

College deans described close industry partnerships that provide paid internships, conditional or priority hiring and equipment donations. Highlands College’s lineman/pre‑print program, for example, runs a 30‑credit one‑semester certificate with multiple industry certifications and strong employer demand; Gallatin College and MSU Northern highlighted HVAC, carpentry, diesel and dual‑enrollment pipelines tied to local employers.

Barriers to scale include the need for startup equipment and lab space, summer instruction funding (many sprints use summer semesters), and faculty/workforce capacity to run multiple cohorts. Deans asked the Board to consider targeted startup and innovation funding to help colleges build and sustain high‑cost CTE labs and wraparound student supports.

Next steps: Staff will continue to monitor retention and employer placement rates, work on employer association models for sustainability, and brief the Board on outcomes and recommended funding options at future meetings.