Colleges are intensifying efforts to translate degrees into jobs by embedding co-ops, internships and employer partnerships into curricula while states and institutions pour money into short-term credentials. Reporting shows career-focused approaches—from Northeastern’s century-old co-op model to Georgia Tech’s multi-semester employer placements—are delivering faster job outcomes for graduates. Policy and philanthropic players are also channeling funds into workforce-aligned certificates and credential quality initiatives. Higher-education leaders should expect expanded state coordination, new financial aid pathways for short programs, and closer employer oversight of program outcomes going into 2026.