WMU, West Shore Community College ink reverse transfer pact

KALAMAZOO—Students who have attended Scottville's West Shore Community College and transferred to Western Michigan University before earning a degree can now receive their associate degree while continuing their studies at the University.

WMU President John M. Dunn and WSCC President Charles T. Dillon recently signed the reverse transfer agreement allowing WSCC students who have transferred to WMU the opportunity to combine credits earned at both institutions and receive an associate degree.

The agreement is designed to increase student retention and degree completion at both the community college and university level. It fits statewide goals outlined in State of Michigan Public Act 62 of 2011. That legislation calls on institutions to work collaboratively and cooperatively to remove administrative barriers that result in understating the academic attainment of Michigan's citizens.

"West Shore Community College and Western are committed to student success," says Dillon. "The reverse transfer agreement will help increase the number of students in our state with degrees, while providing those students with an additional credential that can be taken to the job market."

"This initiative is all about our students," says Dunn. "This agreement is another way of signaling that our focus is always on our students' needs, and our commitment is to do whatever we can to maximize their current and future options."

The agreement applies to WSCC students who have completed at least 32 credits, but who transferred to WMU before earning an associate degree. Students who have transferred and qualify will be notified and a University transcript will be sent to WSCC for review to confirm they have completed the requirements for an associate degree.

The agreement with WSCC brings to 12 the number of Michigan community colleges that have worked with WMU to enhance student opportunities and credentials through reverse transfer arrangements.

For more information about the WMU/WSCC transfer program, contact WSCC's Office of Student Services at (231) 843-5510.