Tag: Articulation Agreement

ECC Chief Academic Officer Named to State Transfer Committee

East Central College Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Robyn Walter will help shape how transfer and articulation agreements among Missouri colleges and universities are developed and maintained.

Walter was appointed last month to the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (MDHEWD) Committee on Transfer and Articulation (COTA). She was appointed by interim Commissioner of Higher Education Leroy Wade to serve through June 30, 2024.

“At ECC, we rely on good transfer partners to provide quality pathways for our students, so I understand the importance of transfer agreements, and how greatly they can benefit students,” Walter said. “It’s crucial to develop collaborative transfer and articulation strategies to serve students and advance our goals for degree completion.”

COTA’s primary responsibilities are to review and make recommendations on transfer issues and study and develop transfer guidelines for traditional and non-traditional credits. That’s in addition to reviewing and recommending resolutions on cases of appeal from institutions or students.

“It is important that students throughout the state are prepared for upper-level coursework when they transfer, and that they receive credit for the courses they have completed,” Walter added.

COTA is comprised of 12 members who are appointed by the Commissioner of Higher Education, and it includes four representatives from public two-year colleges and four representatives from public four-year colleges and universities, one of which must be from the University of Missouri and one which must be from another public four-year institution.

COTA also includes one representative from independent two-year colleges or proprietary institutions, two representatives from independent four-year colleges and universities and one at-large position. Additionally, the commissioner or a designated representative sits as ex-officio voting member of the committee.

Walter has been with ECC since 2003, serving as a faculty member, director of nursing, nursing and allied health program chair, dean of health sciences and vice president of academic affairs since 2020.

She received her Bachelor of Nursing degree from the University of Missouri and her Master’s in Nursing Service Administration from Saint Louis University. She earned her Ph.D. in Nursing at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

ECC and Missouri Baptist Strengthen Transfer Agreement

November 9, 2022 | Campus News ECC Rolla

East Central College and Missouri Baptist University have bolstered the transfer agreements between the institutions.

For the past 20 years, the partnership between ECC and MBU has resulted in highly prepared educators within the community, according to Dr. Robyn Walter, vice president of academic affairs at ECC. This year, ECC and MBU revised the agreement update all the courses that transfer from ECC to the University.

MBU, with a location in Union, allows for students to attend in-person classes without leaving the area. In addition, the University offers many online options and transfer students can attend classes from home.

Walter noted that it is important for the community that educators from this area remain here due to nationwide teacher shortages.

“We appreciate Missouri Baptist’s commitment to teacher education in our community,” Walter said. “We know that when students start at ECC and then complete their teaching degree locally, they are more likely to stay and teach locally — this approach is needed now more than ever.”

According to Thea Abraham, MBU director of records, ECC and MBU have had a strong relationship since the early 2000s.

She said, although MBU is a private university, it accepts all CORE 42 courses that state public colleges and universities accept.

“For two decades we had a strong relationship, and the transferability of courses at ECC has always been very high,” Abraham said.

Abraham echoed the importance of MBU’s accessibility to residents of ECC’s district.

“Students can stay in town, taking classes at home or in-person at MBU’s Union facility, and they don’t have to drive into the main campus,” she said.

Students transferring from ECC to MBU typically are seeking teaching degrees or business-related degrees. MBU also offers a variety of other degree programs.

To learn more about transfer agreements between ECC and colleges and universities, visit www.eastcentral.edu/transfer/articulation-agreements/.

ECC, Southeast Agree to New Mentor Transfer Program

September 23, 2022 | Campus News ECC Rolla

East Central College students planning to transfer to Southeast Missouri State University, Cape Girardeau, will have a helping hand every step of the way.

That’s thanks to a Transfer Mentor Program agreed upon ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer and Southeast President Dr. Carlos Vargas on Sept. 19.

The new program provides ECC students with a guided plan for success while at ECC, and an easy transition plan to Southeast to complete their four-year degree.

“It takes two institutions to make an agreement work,” said Bauer. “It’s important to have processes in place so students know the answers without having to search for them. This partnership will work for the students.”

ECC students will track their degree program at Southeast from their very first semester of college. Students who participate will be assigned a transfer mentor at Southeast who will give them individual support for their two years at ECC, and through their first semester at Southeast.

“The Transfer Mentor Program allows Southeast to treat ECC students as if they were our very own,” said Vargas. “This agreement will give students support and advising to ensure courses are transferable as they make progress on their associate degrees.”

In addition, ECC students will have access to academic advising and the web-based degree management system at Southeast. The program also provides students opportunities for concurrent enrollment and reverse transfer to earn their associate of arts degree at ECC.

Every semester, ECC will send an official college transcript to Southeast at no cost to the student. This will allow the student, and staff at ECC and Southeast to share information, manage progress towards the degree and have access to transcripts in a web-based degree management system.

With the institutions working directly together on behalf of the students, Southeast’s Office of Admissions can create a clear pathway for the ECC students’ ultimate goal of a four-year degree while helping ensure there are no non-transferable credits, giving them guidance, and providing mentorship to succeed.

ECC and Lindenwood Agree to Seamless Partnership Plan

August 29, 2022 | Campus News

East Central College and Lindenwood University entered into a partnership Thursday, Aug. 25, to provide resources and opportunities that will serve as a “bridge” to a four-year degree.

The new partnership outlines easily transferable credits that ECC students can earn to obtain an associate degree, while preparing them to succeed at Lindenwood.

The agreement was signed at ECC’s Union campus by ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer and Lindenwood University President Dr. John Porter.

“We rely on good transfer partners to provide quality pathways for our students,” said Bauer. “Lindenwood is a great fit for many of our students and the commitment of Dr. Porter and the entire Lindenwood community will ensure a seamless transfer experience. This work is great news for students.”

Also representing ECC at signing event were Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Robyn Walter and Vice President of Student Development Sarah Leassner; and Lindenwood representatives were Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Bethany Alden-Rivers, and Senior Vice President of Lindenwood Global Dr. Joe Sallustio.

“It is important to East Central College that our students are prepared for upper-level coursework when they transfer and, in addition, receive credit for the courses they have completed,” Walter commented. “Lindenwood is a high-quality and student-centered four-year partner, and we are pleased to add this agreement to strengthen our already excellent relationship.”

Dr. Porter noted that the values of ECC and Lindenwood align, making a beneficial partnership.

“Partnering with two-year institutions whose values align with Lindenwood University benefits both schools,” Porter added. “East Central College’s commitment to excellence and community enrichment through education mirrors Lindenwood University. I’m so pleased to work with Dr. Bauer and Dr. Walter on this partnership.”

Washington Scholarship

In addition, Lindenwood University evaluates ECC graduates each year for the opportunity to be awarded an academic bridge “Washington Scholarship” for up to $9,000 annually for full-time, traditional, undergraduate students. Students can earn an additional $2,000 per year for completion of an associate degree and another $1,000 per year if they are a member of Phi Theta Kappa.

To qualify for the scholarship, ECC students must come directly to Lindenwood from ECC within one academic year. Traditional undergraduate students must be full-time students at Lindenwood to receive Bridge Scholarship opportunities.

Evening and online undergraduate students can be part-time students at Lindenwood to receive Bridge Scholarship opportunities.

Must obtain an associate degree from East Central College to receive the Bridge Scholarship opportunities.

ECC, Missouri State Sign ‘Transfer 2+2 Plan’ Agreement

June 21, 2022 | Campus News ECC Rolla

There is now an even more seamless pathway for East Central College students transferring to Missouri State University in Springfield.

That’s thanks to a new articulation agreement between ECC and MSU creating a “transfer 2+2 plan.” The agreement was signed June 17 by ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer and MSU President Clif Smart.

Under this agreement, the two institutions will work together to develop transfer plans for ECC students who want to complete their bachelor’s degrees at Missouri State – either online or at the Springfield campus. It promotes the completion of bachelor’s degrees within 120 credits.

According to Dr. Robyn Walter, ECC vice president for academic affairs, many of the students at ECC transfer to four-year colleges or universities.

“We strive to ensure students are prepared for upper-level coursework. We want them to receive credit for the courses they have completed with transfer,” she added.

“Missouri State University is a high-quality and student-centered four-year partner, and we are pleased to add this agreement to our already strong relationship.”

Transfer 2+2 Plans

The transfer 2+2 plans offer a clear pathway to a bachelor’s degree and ensure students meet program requirements. Students also will be assured their credit transfers for all programs through this agreement.

Ultimately, students can save time and money through transfer 2+2 plans.

“Missouri State is pleased to enter into an agreement with East Central College,” said Dr. Joye Norris, associate provost for access and outreach at Missouri State.

“This agreement promotes a seamless transfer experience for students completing degrees online and on-campus. The agreement will support students during the transfer of an associate degree to a Missouri State bachelor’s degree program.”

East Central College President Dr. Jon Bauer, left, and Missouri State University President Clif Smart signed a new articulation agreement June 17 that provides a clear “transfer 2+2 plan” for ECC students to obtain a bachelor’s degree at MSU.

Mizzou College of Engineering, ECC Sign Computer Information Systems Agreement

January 24, 2022 | Campus News

East Central College has signed an agreement with the University of Missouri in Columbia, Mo., to streamline the path for students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology.

The articulation agreement guarantees that any student who earns an Associate in Applied Science degree in Computer Information Systems (CIS) at ECC — with an emphasis in database administration and security — has the opportunity to complete an information technology degree at MU College of Engineering.

The “2+2” agreement is designed for students to complete two years, or four semesters, of classes at ECC, and then two years of courses at the University of Missouri. It was signed by Dr. Jon Bauer, ECC president; Dr. Robyn Walter, ECC vice president of academic affairs; Dr. Latha Ramchand, UM provost; and Dr. Noah Manring, MU dean of college of engineering.

Dr. Walter explained that both institutions are committed to seamless transfers so students can complete their academic goals. The new partnership enhances access for students across the ECC district, and throughout the state.

She further explained that agreements like this align with ECC’s strategic plan, SOAR to 2024.

“One of our strategies in our five-year strategic plan is to grow partnerships with our four-year university partners, and provide opportunities for the students and the community,” Walter said.

“This articulation agreement with MU is really impactful for students who choose to pursue a career in computer science and choose an online option to obtain their degree.”

Walter noted that the market demand for qualified CIS professional is high.

“This degree is suited for the traditional-aged student, as well as the returning adult student, with the benefit of the online platform at the associate degree level and at the bachelor’s degree level,” she added. “I am thrilled to have this innovative and comprehensive articulation agreement with MU. Our CIS faculty have built a strong program with an outstanding reputation that partners well with MU’s program.”

Background at ECC

According to Dr. Richard Hudanick, dean of career and technical education at ECC, about five years ago CIS faculty members Anna Schwein and Jason Durbin began revamping the program’s curriculum.

“Anna and Jason committed more than three years updating curriculum, rebuilding curriculum layout for a total online learning environment, and new course,” Hudanick said. “They also taught a group of students who were finishing their degree.

“There are a lot of moving parts to a program rebuild, including maintaining student success,” he added.

In 2020, ECC’s CIS online program caught the interest of valued education partner, the University of Missouri, Hudanick noted.

Over the next year, Schwein, Durbin and Hudanick worked with Mizzou’s liaison and faculty to forge the “2 plus 2” articulation agreement.

ECC, SBU Sign Agreement for Future Educators

November 8, 2021 | Campus News

East Central College and Southwest Baptist University signed an agreement last week to streamline the transfer into the university’s education program.

The articulation agreement provides ECC graduates who earn an Associate of Arts in Teaching a smooth transition into SBU’s bachelor of science in elementary education program, which aligns with ECC’s strategic plan, said Dr. Robyn Walter, vice president for academic affairs at ECC.

“One of our strategies in our five-year strategic plan was to grow partnerships with our four-year university partners, provide opportunities for the students and the community,” she said. “This articulation agreement is really impactful for teacher education. We’ve been hearing a lot about the shortage of teachers.”

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) reported a 5.06 percent shortage in full-time equivalent instructors for the 2020-21 academic year. The most-severe shortages include elementary, early childhood, early childhood special and general science education.

“We are pleased to have collaboratively created a path for East Central College teacher candidates to attain their goal of elementary education certification at SBU,” said Dr. Dwight Haun, coordinator of teacher education and professor of education at SBU.

“The need for teachers across the state of Missouri, especially rural areas, is great. Preparing teacher candidates for the mission field of teaching is our calling and mission.”

According to Christina Ayers, director of ECC Rolla, teachers who are trained and educated in a community, oftentimes stay within that community.

“Our mission at East Central is enriching our communities through education, and I don’t think it gets any better than teaching the teachers and creating a pathway to completing a bachelor’s degree locally — to be able to serve our rural community and really address this teacher shortage issue is powerful,” she said.

“As someone who grew up just a few miles south of here, this opportunity today really excites me for our students in Rolla, and students in the surrounding communities who can start at ECC and use A+ money.

“To have a realistic plan through those pathways to start here and finish with SBU is really a game-changer it’s an exciting and an impactful difference for our rural students,” Ayers added.

To learn more about ECC’s teaching program, visit https://www.eastcentral.edu/education/education/.

ECC, Drury Sign Agreement to Streamline Degrees

October 23, 2020 | Campus News ECC Rolla

A new agreement between East Central College and Drury University is streamlining the path to a four-year degree for business and education students.

The articulation agreement was signed Tuesday during a ceremony at the ECC Rolla North site.

The formal partnership guarantees that the credits for ECC students who have completed an Associate of Arts in Teaching (AAT) degree or an Associate of Arts (AA) degree in Business will transfer seamlessly to Drury University.

Robyn Walter, ECC vice president of academic affairs, said this agreement between the schools will help students navigate the pitfalls to ensure an easier, more successful transition.

“An articulation agreement such as ours is designed to create an uninterrupted transfer experience for students moving from community college to four-year institutions,” she said. “In particular our Teacher Education and Business students now have this invaluable resource for transfer with our partner, Drury University.”

According to Dr. Regina Waters, Drury associate provost for adult, online and graduate programs, the primary focus of the agreement is the needs of students.

“This partnership provides business and education students with a seamless transition to Drury University for degree completion,” she added. “We are so pleased that East Central College shares our commitment to putting students’ needs first.”

The agreement states that once the ECC students meet Drury admission standards, they will be enrolled as juniors at the university.

Walter noted that this partnership leads the way for additional agreements between the institutions.

“This is just the beginning — the efforts thus far lays a solid groundwork for future programmatic specific agreements,” she said. “We look forward to enhancing this relationship and, in turn, enhancing the success of our students and community.”

Walter said ECC faculty and staff members Greg Stotler, ECC education instructor, Dr. Richard Hudanick; ECC dean of career and technical education; and Lisa Hanneken, accounting instructor were instrumental in moving the articulation agreement forward.

“We appreciate the faculty and staff involvement for making this work,” she said. “They worked with Drury faculty and staff to develop a seamless transition for our students.”

Attending from ECC were Christina Ayers, ECC Rolla director; and Dr. Reginald Brigham, mathematics instructor and department chair; Jenni Crosby, ECC Rolla assistant director; Hudanick and Stotler.

Drury Representatives at the ceremony were Kerstin Ellis, director of Drury GO Rolla; Dr. Leasa Richards-Mealy, business instructor; and Kimbrea Browning, executive vice president of enrollment management and operations.

To learn more about ECC’s degree programs, visit EastCentral.edu. Visit Drury.edu to learn about Drury University’s programs and degree options.