Fox 19: State hopes pilot program will help Ohioans complete bachelor's degrees

There about 1.5 million Ohio residents who have earned some college credit but haven't complete their bachelor's degree.

Economists have indicated that increasing the number of Ohioans with postsecondary degrees or credentials is necessary for the state to remain competitive economically and meet the workforce needs of the future.

Ohio Department of Higher Education is operating the Second Chance Grant Pilot Program to further this goal. It will provide up to $3 million in financial assistance in the form of $2,000 grants to eligible students re-enrolling at the University of Cincinnati and other qualifying institutions to obtain a bachelor's degree.

Jack Miner, vice provost for enrollment management at the University of Cincinnati, spoke with Fox 19 about the Second Chance Grant Pilot Program and how prospective UC students can benefit from a return to the classroom.

Listen to the Fox 19 broadcast.

Here's who qualities:

• Students who have been out 1-5 years (minimum of 3 semesters removed).
• If you want to return to UC or another qualifying institution to complete their degree (have not obtained a bachelor’s degree; re-enrollee is pursuing a credential or degree beyond that which they already possess.)
• If you are Ohio resident.
• If you are in good academic standing with no record of disciplinary issues.
• If you have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• Must not be recipients of one of the following state supported scholarships: Choose Ohio First Scholarship, Ohio Safety Officers College Memorial Fund, War Orphans and Severely Disabled Veterans’ Scholarship Program, or Ohio National Guard Scholarship.

Interested students can reach out to advhelp@uc.edu for additional assistance.

Featured image of students along Main Street at UC taken by UC Creative + Brand.