Kentucky students with associate’s degrees now have a new way of earing a bachelor’s from Thomas More University.
Thomas More and the Kentucky Community & Technical College System, often shortened to KCTCS, are launching a new dual-credit and transfer program that will allow students at any of the state system’s 16 colleges, including Gateway, a direct path to earning a bachelor’s at Thomas More upon completing an associate’s degree at a KCTCS school.
This partnership between a private, liberal arts university and a state technical college system is the first of its kind in Kentucky, according to a press release from the two institutions.
“KCTCS is pleased to expand our transfer partnership with Thomas More University, providing even greater opportunities for student success,” said KCTCS Vice President and Provost Dr. Phil Neal in the release. “This renewed collaboration enhances clear transfer pathways, concurrent admission and a seamless transition to Thomas More after earning an associate degree.”
Dubbed the “Pathways to More” program, participants will be eligible for the following benefits:
- Dual Admission – Qualified KCTCS students are admitted to Thomas More University as non-degree seeking students while working on their degrees at KCTS before they transfer.
- Early Access to Thomas More Courses – Before transferring, participating KCTCS students can take up to four courses at Thomas More at KCTCS tuition rates.
- Guaranteed Admission – KCTCS students are guaranteed admission to Thomas More upon completing their associate degree, provided they’re in good academic standing. Some Thomas More programs of study may have additional admisssion requirements.
- Guided Pathways – The program features what its calling “pathways,” guided programs focusing on several areas of study, such as business administration, organizational leadership, psychology, elementary education, criminal justice and nursing. More pathways may be developed in the future.
- Shared Advising & Support – Students will have access to advising at both schools as well as a transfer coordinator to help them in their transition.
- Transfer scholarship – Those who transfer from a KCTCS institution to Thomas More full-time will receive a $4,000 transfer scholarship, over and above any other financial aid or scholarships they may earn.