Sam Altman invests in for-profit community college 'Campus'
What's the story
OpenAI co-founder Sam Altman has joined a group of influential Silicon Valley investors to back a for-profit community college called Campus.
The educational institution recently raised $46 million in funding from venture capital firm General Catalyst and other investors, including Founders Fund and Altman himself, according to Bloomberg.
The funding round, which was completed in December 2024 according to Quartz, takes Campus's total investment to $101 million so far.
Education offerings
Campus offers 2-year degrees and certifications
Campus is an institution offering two-year degrees and certifications, and it currently caters to around 1,200 students.
Tade Oyerinde, the founder of Campus, said that he envisioned the college as a place where "everyone should be able to learn useful skills from the best professors in the country without going into debt."
If this can be done on a large scale, he believes it can improve millions of lives in America.
Accreditation details
Pathways to 4-year degree
Campus is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, a US Department of Education-recognized body.
This accreditation enables students to transfer their credits and pursue a bachelor's degree at a four-year college after completing their studies at Campus.
The institution's online programs cost $7,200 (around ₹6.2 lakh) per year, with students being eligible for federal financial aid such as the Pell Grant.
Student support
Diverse programs and support services
Campus provides a range of associate degrees including business administration and paralegal studies, and certificates in areas like medical assisting and phlebotomy.
The college has a graduation rate of 68% for full-time, first-time students.
To help students succeed, Campus offers essential technology resources such as laptops and wireless hotspot devices. Each student is also assigned a "personal success coach" to guide them through their journey.