December 10, 2024

Belhaven University and the Mississippi Association of Community Colleges (MACC) have signed an agreement that provides Mississippi community college students a seamless pathway to earning their Bachelor of Science in Elementary Teacher Education. Effective immediately, the agreement allows students with an Associate of Arts (AA) degree from any MACC institution to transfer directly into Belhaven University, where the AA degree will fulfill the first two years of the University’s Elementary Teacher Education Preparation Program.

“This articulation agreement represents our steadfast commitment to creating seamless pathways for student success,” said Belhaven University Provost Dr. Audrey Kelleher. “By fostering collaboration between the Mississippi Association of Community Colleges and Belhaven University, we empower students to achieve their educational goals. Together, we are strengthening the bridge to higher education and enriching opportunities for learners across Mississippi.”

The partnership includes a comprehensive transfer and course equivalency guide that guarantees the transferability of applicable credits. MACC students who meet all admission requirements and follow the recommended program of study will be eligible for direct admission to Belhaven University.

One of the agreement’s central goals is to facilitate smooth transitions for students pursuing a teaching career in elementary education. Those completing an AA degree with a 3.0 GPA or higher can transfer directly into Belhaven’s Elementary Teacher Education Preparation Program without any loss of credits. This ensures future educators have a streamlined path to entering the workforce prepared and equipped for success.

Dean of the School of Education Dr. David Hand said, “With the ongoing shortage of elementary teachers in Mississippi, this agreement is designed to simplify the transfer process for teacher candidates from community colleges into our Teacher Educator Preparation Program. Our shared goal is to prepare more qualified teachers to help address the critical need for teachers in our state.”

“This agreement underscores our shared commitment to expanding access to higher education and supporting student achievement,” Dr. Kelleher added. “By working together, we’re making it easier than ever for Mississippi students to reach their academic and professional aspirations.”

East Mississippi Community College President Dr. Scott Alsobrooks applauded the articulation agreement between the MACC and Belhaven University.

“This articulation agreement is beneficial not only to our students at East Mississippi Community College, but to all students enrolled in one of Mississippi’s community colleges,” Alsobrooks said. “We are grateful to the Mississippi Association of Community Colleges and Belhaven University for their commitment to creating new educational opportunities for our students.”  

About Belhaven University
Founded in 1883, Belhaven University is a top-ranked Christian liberal arts institution offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple disciplines. With a mission to prepare students academically and spiritually, Belhaven University is committed to equipping students for meaningful lives of leadership and service.

About the Mississippi Association of Community Colleges
The Mississippi Association of Community Colleges represents the state’s community and junior colleges, serving students across Mississippi with affordable and accessible higher education opportunities. MACC institutions are dedicated to supporting student success and workforce development.