2U connects new partnerships with LinkedIn, Northwestern University

Lanham, Md.–based edtech startup 2U has racked up two more major partnerships to expand its reach to students in its programs.

The cloud-based learning platform company landed a partnership with Northwestern University to offer new online short courses, and a partnership with LinkedIn to offer graduate students in 2U–powered programs complimentary access to LinkedIn Premium Career.

In collaboration with its brand GetSmarter, 2U will work with Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management to deliver two online short courses focused on business. 2U already had an active partnership with the university to power Counseling@Northwestern, an online Master of Arts in Counseling degree program, a press release states.

“We are excited to expand 2U’s partnership with Northwestern University through our first collaboration with the Kellogg School of Management, one of the world’s best business schools,” 2U President of University Partnerships and Services Andrew Hermalyn, said in a statement. “Kellogg is known for its focus on global experiential learning that cuts across geographic boundaries and cultures. This mission and their commitment to student outcomes made Kellogg an ideal partner for 2U.”

2U’s partnership with LinkedIn was launched to promote career advancement and enhance professional networking opportunities for its students.

Great news for students! We’re working with @LinkedIn to offer free premium subscriptions to students in 2U-powered degree programs to help enhance their careers and networking opportunities. Read about the new benefit: https://t.co/djVY9FZfu6 #NoBackRow pic.twitter.com/zLedMn5ElY

— 2U (@2Uinc) February 6, 2019

“We are excited to be expanding our relationship with 2U as they provide their students with the tools, insights, and content available through LinkedIn Premium Career,” Vice President of Global LinkedIn Marketing Solutions Penry Price said in a statement. “Through our collaboration, LinkedIn will also bring insights to 2U, its students, and partners to help optimize coursework and educational programs.”

Through this new partnership, 2U students using LinkedIn Premium Career will have access to career-enhancing benefits including resume building tools, insights on salary and earning potential and the ability to contact recruiters and hiring managers using InMail, the press release states. Students and faculty at 2U partner institutions will have tailored workshops available. The edtech company will also used LinkedIn to discover career trends to enhance its programs.