MURFREESBORO (AP) - Middle Tennessee State University is offering leadership training to adult learners already in the workforce.

Each of four certificates offered in the Applied Leadership program requires two, 7-week online courses and a 1-week intensive training on campus. The certificates are in leadership theory; communication and problem solving; leading teams; and leading people and managing change. The credits can be used toward a bachelor's degree.

According to the school, the program was developed through a partnership with tire and rubber company Bridgestone Americas. Bridgestone employees are expected to be among the inaugural group of students to begin this fall.

MTSU says the new program complements Gov. Bill Haslam's Drive to 55 initiative. That seeks to increase the percent of Tennesseans with a college degree or certificate to 55 percent by 2025.