PHOENIX (AP) - Arizona State University and Uber announced a new partnership Thursday that will allow some of the ridesharing app’s drivers to pursue a degree online.
Under the pilot program, eligible drivers can take ASU classes online with the cost of tuition fully covered. The money will come from Uber, ASU and financial aid programs, according to a news release.
“We are proud to partner with ASU to connect drivers and their families to high-quality educational opportunities that help them get ahead, in life and on the road,” Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said.
The program will launch in eight places including Phoenix, Denver, Chicago, Seattle, New Orleans, Orlando, Tampa and New Jersey. Both ASU and Uber say students will also get support and “success coaching.”
Drivers who have done at least 3,000 rides and have “platinum” or higher status are eligible.
An applicant can earn a degree or go through a continuing education program. Drivers can also choose to transfer the opportunity to a family member such as a spouse, sibling or domestic partner.
This is the second time the Tempe-based university has partnered with a company.
In 2015, Starbucks pledged to cover four years of tuition for its workers to study online. The company’s settlement with two black men who were arrested at a Philadelphia Starbucks in April included free tuition to ASU.
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