April 30, 2026

COLUMBUS, Miss.— Mississippi University for Women and East Mississippi Community College (EMCC) have signed a memorandum of agreement establishing new educational pathways for students pursuing career-technical degrees who plan to earn a bachelor’s degree.

EMCC graduates who earn an Associate of Applied Science degree in specified career-technical fields will be able to transfer approved credits toward a Bachelor of Applied Science at The W, thanks to a memorandum of agreement signed by W President Nora Miller and EMCC President Scott Alsobrooks.

The agreement, signed Thursday, April 30, at 11 a.m. at the Culinary Arts Institute on The W’s campus, creates a seamless pathway for qualified EMCC students to continue their education at The W.

Miller said, “This agreement reflects the strength of our long-standing partnership with EMCC and our shared commitment to student success. By offering a 3+1+1 pathway, students can efficiently earn an associate degree, complete a bachelor’s and pursue an MBA, all while maintaining the integrity of their technical education.”

“Community colleges and institutions of higher learning have a long history of working together to provide transfer opportunities to students in academic fields of study,” Alsobrooks said. “Providing transfer pathways to students in career-technical programs ensures they have the same opportunities to further their education and excel in today’s work environment. This agreement between EMCC and The W will pay dividends to students and the communities we represent for generations to come.”

Under the agreement, students may complete up to three years of coursework at EMCC before transferring to The W to finish their bachelor’s degree in approximately one additional year, either in person or online. Students also have the option to pursue a Master of Business Administration degree in a fifth year.

Participation in the MBA program is optional. Students who wish to continue must apply during their final semester at The W. Admission is competitive and not guaranteed. MBA options include a general track, as well as emphases in hospitality and workforce development.

Eligible EMCC programs include Administrative Office Technology, Accounting Technology, Barbering, Business and Marketing Management Technology, Culinary Arts Technology, Computer Network Technology, Cosmetology, Computer Programming Technology, E-Commerce Technology, Forest Technology, Funeral Services Technology, Hotel and Restaurant Management Technology, Landscape Management Technology, Medical Billing Technology and Network Security Technology.

At The W, students may pursue a Bachelor of Applied Science with concentrations in culinary management, general business, health care management, human resource management, legal administration, management, management information systems, marketing and sports marketing.

The agreement allows The W to accept up to 40 career-technical education credit hours toward a bachelor’s degree. Students must complete at least 25% of total degree hours at the university.