Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) and Mineral Area College (MAC) are partnering to create a new academic pathway that allows students to begin their college education through MAC, while living, learning, and experiencing campus life at SEMO.
The partnership allows MAC students working toward their associate degree to become part of the SEMO community while progressing toward the academic milestones necessary to pursue a bachelor’s degree at the University. In addition to attending MAC-coordinated classes on campus, students will be eligible to live in SEMO residence halls and have access to University resources and student life opportunities.
“We’re honored to welcome MAC students to SEMO and provide an opportunity for them to make campus their home from the beginning of their college journey,” said SEMO President Dr. Brad Hodson.
After successfully completing their associate degree and meeting SEMO academic requirements, students can transition to SEMO with junior standing to continue pursuing their bachelor's degree. A formal articulation agreement between the institutions will guarantee the transfer of the Associate of Arts.
“In 1947, President Truman gave us the Truman Commission on Higher Education, which created the term ‘Community College’—an institution that would provide access to education for all who wanted it,” said MAC President Joe Gilgour. “This agreement is a perfect example of Truman's vision of access to affordable, quality education that removes barriers and sets students on a journey to a four-year education.
“In that same spirit, Mineral Area College is proud to build on our strong foundation with Southeast Missouri State University. As long-standing educational partners dedicated to student success, we look forward to the positive impact this initiative will have in expanding access to higher education across our region. We extend our sincere appreciation to Dr. Hodson and the administrative leadership teams at both MAC and SEMO, whose collaborative spirit made this vision a reality,” he said.
“We greatly value our community college partners and very much appreciate MAC and Dr. Gilgour’s trust in SEMO and willingness to work together to imagine an innovative partnership to help students achieve the futures of their dreams,” said Hodson.