Wallace State Community College Partners with WGU for Student Success

Representatives from Wallace State Community College (WSCC) and Western Governors University (WGU) formalized a significant transfer agreement on March 15, 2024. The event took place at the James C. Bailey Center in Hanceville, Alabama, where leaders from both institutions gathered to discuss the new initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for Wallace State graduates and employees.

This agreement establishes a framework for WSCC students to access flexible learning pathways, allowing them to pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees, as well as post-graduate certificates and endorsements through WGU. The collaboration reflects both institutions’ commitment to innovation, workforce development, and support for the military community, as noted by Dr. Kimberly K. Estep, the Southeast regional vice president for WGU.

Enhanced Opportunities for Students

The partnership is designed to improve transfer opportunities, with a strong focus on student success post-transfer. Dr. Vicki Karolewics, President of Wallace State, emphasized the importance of understanding how graduates perform after transferring. “We are very grateful for the opportunity to partner with Western Governors University in a different model for our students,” she stated. “This initiative aims to lead to greater opportunities for them.”

As part of the agreement, WGU will waive the application fee for any Wallace State graduate or employee who enrolls at the accredited online university. Additionally, graduates and employees can apply for WGU’s Community College Partner Scholarships, valued at up to $3,500.

Flexible Learning with WGU

WGU offers over 120 online programs across various fields, including business, technology, healthcare, and K-12 education. The university’s flexible, competency-based learning model allows students to progress at their own pace, supported by assigned program mentors. Tuition for bachelor’s degrees is approximately $4,000 per six-month term, enabling students to complete as many courses as they can within that timeframe, subject to mentor approval.

Currently, nearly 2,500 students from Alabama are enrolled at WGU, contributing to a total of over 418,000 alumni nationwide. This partnership between Wallace State and WGU is expected to create a lasting impact on the local community, providing valuable educational resources for years to come.

For more information about Wallace State Community College, visit wallacestate.edu. To learn more about WGU, visit wgu.edu.