Southeast Missouri State University has established a new articulation agreement with Sir Arthur Lewis Community College (SALCC) in St. Lucia, creating a seamless pathway for students to earn a Bachelor of Science in biology at SEMO.
The 2+2 articulation agreement allows students who complete an associate degree in biology at SALCC to transfer directly into SEMO’s biology programs, completing their bachelor’s degree in two additional years. All biology options at SEMO are available to participating students.
“This agreement allows students to take the steps toward an advanced education, knowing their coursework will transfer efficiently and keep them on track to earn a full bachelor’s degree,” said Dr. Tim Judd, chair and professor of biology and environmental sciences at SEMO, who helped facilitate the partnership.
The agreement marks SEMO’s first formal articulation partnership in the Caribbean and builds on the University’s ongoing recruitment efforts. SEMO has been actively recruiting students in St. Lucia, Grenada and Dominica since 2023. While these islands are home to strong public two-year institutions, they do not offer four-year degree programs, making transfer opportunities essential for students seeking advanced education.
Dr. Kevin Timlin, executive director of international education and services at SEMO, said the agreement expands access for students while strengthening the University’s biology programs.
“There are fully accredited two-year institutions in the Caribbean,” said Timlin. “This partnership allows us to welcome well-prepared students who are ready to transition into upper-level coursework and research experiences. It creates opportunities that simply didn’t exist before by providing a clear, supported pathway from a Caribbean community college into a full bachelor’s program at SEMO.”
Timlin also says students from the Caribbean have consistently contributed positively to SEMO’s academic and campus communities.
“Our experience with Caribbean students has been incredibly positive,” Timlin said. “This agreement is a mutual benefit for both institutions, and we hope it opens the door for more talented students to pursue their educational and professional goals at SEMO.”
See what’s possible with SEMO’s biology programs at semo.edu/biology.