MSU, MCC sign MOU for Bachelor of Applied Science degree program

Contact:  James Carskadon

MERIDIAN, Miss.—Mississippi State University and Meridian Community College signed a memorandum of understanding today [Feb. 26] to formalize partnership programs for students enrolled in technical education programs.

The agreement outlines a pathway for MCC students to complete MSU’s new Bachelor of Applied Science program, leveraging the strengths of both institutions to provide more opportunities in technical education and meet current and future workforce demands.

“We need more two-year and four-year graduates to move Mississippi forward,” MSU President Mark E. Keenum said. “By working together, I believe we’ll be able to better assist our fellow Mississippians in gaining the education they need to compete for the jobs of the 21st century. We are committed to helping all of our BAS students excel, succeed and earn a bachelor’s degree—building on the excellent foundation they have been given at MCC.”

“Mississippi State does a fantastic job embracing those who start their educational journey at a community college,” said MCC President Thomas Huebner. “The BAS program is just another example of how working together opens doors that create opportunities that will change lives, families, and communities. Today is a great day for the students of Meridian Community College and the communities we serve.”

MSU launched its BAS program in August, significantly expanding the university’s acceptance of technical credit from community colleges and military training. It is intended to serve the needs of adults who have completed a technical associate’s degree program through a community college or the military and need additional education to advance their careers.

The agreement between MSU and MCC outlines which courses must be completed at each institution to fulfill degree requirements. An MSU advisor will assist in guiding MCC students through BAS program pathways. Additionally, MCC and MSU-Meridian will work together to provide classroom space for the delivery of synchronous online courses.

Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Applied Science program will have access to advisors from MSU-Meridian and MSU Online. Credits in the degree program can be earned through online or in-person courses, providing the flexibility that has become a hallmark of MSU’s nationally ranked online offerings.

For more on the Bachelor of Applied Science program, visit https://www.msstate.edu/students/bachelor-of-applied-science.

For more on Meridian Community College, visit www.meridiancc.edu.

MSU is Mississippi’s leading university, available online at www.msstate.edu.