A new partnership is expected to make it easier for community college students to finish four-year degrees at Iowa’s state universities and to gain credentials retroactively, the Iowa Department of Education announced. Iowa community college students who transfer to one of the state’s three public universities before earning a degree or certificate will be able to use the new arrangement with the National Student Clearinghouse. The Clearinghouse’s Reverse Transfer Service is expected to boost college completion rates and the number of community college credentials awarded. “Helping more Iowans earn postsecondary degrees and credentials is key to getting them the rewarding jobs they deserve and getting employers the skilled workers they need to grow,” Iowa Department of Education Director Ryan Wise said in a statement. “Participation in Reverse Credit Transfer is good for students, since research shows individuals who earn associate degrees finish four-year degrees at higher rates and earn more money.”