Grace College is one of six faith-based universities participating in a new Indiana Department of Education college credit program for high-schoolers. Photo from Grace College.

News Release

INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana faith-based high schools will soon have a new option for students to earn college credit before graduation through a credential announced Tuesday, Oct. 14 by the Indiana Department of Education and the Independent Colleges of Indiana.

The new “professional pathway” credential allows students to complete at least 30 college credits in general education courses that are fully transferable among six private, faith-based universities: Anderson University, Bethel University, Grace College, Huntington University, Taylor University and Indiana Wesleyan University.

“Our commitment is simple: to provide solutions to Indiana constituents – our parents, our educators, and our students,” said Dr. Drew Flamm, president at Grace College. “We recognize that education is not a static endeavor. To truly serve our state, we must ensure our efforts are collaborative and forward-looking.”

State education leaders said the program is designed to expand early college opportunities and give students a head start toward completing their first year of college while still in high school. The credential is expected to be primarily offered through Indiana’s faith-based high schools as they strengthen partnerships with participating colleges.

The initiative follows the Indiana State Board of Education’s overhaul of high school diploma requirements approved in December 2024, which introduced new honors and honors-plus seals and emphasized more flexible, career-aligned learning options.

Education Secretary Katie Jenner said the new pathway supports the state’s goal of maximizing the high school experience by helping students earn “guaranteed currency” before graduation.

The credits focus on communication, civic literacy and other foundational skills meant to prepare students for college, careers or military service.