Piedmont Technical College Signs Agreements with Columbia College
Piedmont Technical College and Columbia College recently signed two articulation agreements that will allow students to seamlessly continue their education.
The first agreement will create a Bridge program for students who would like to begin their studies at PTC, and then transfer to Columbia College. The second agreement will establish a bachelor’s degree program through Columbia College on the campus of Piedmont Tech.
This partnership will offer students more options as they prepare for careers. Because PTC is an open-admissions institution, the agreement will provide a seamless transition for those who would like to begin their collegiate career closer to home or an alternative for admission to Columbia College for students who may require some academic preparation.
“We are very excited to continue our partnership with Columbia College,” said Susan Timmons, vice president for academic affairs at PTC. “This agreement will provide opportunities that many Piedmont Technical College students never dreamed they could have.”
Bridge program participants will benefit from an array of services that will improve their transition from PTC to Columbia. Requirements for participation in the Bridge program are the same as with any transfer student wishing to attend Columbia College. Students served by the program will begin at PTC and complete at least 30 credit hours of transferable courses and then submit an admissions application and all other standard paperwork in order to be considered.
The second agreement, which will begin in fall 2014, will offer a full baccalaureate degree program through Columbia College on the Lex Walters Campus of Piedmont Technical College. Students who have completed or are near completion of an associate degree can seek a bachelor’s degree in Community and Organizational Leadership, Health Communication or Applied Business.
“Piedmont Technical College offers a starting point for students who wish to seek a four-year degree while saving thousands in tuition costs,” said Jennifer Wilbanks, associate vice president for academic affairs and off-campus. “Agreements like this provide the pathway for our students to further their education.”
Photo Caption: Piedmont Technical College and Columbia College recently signed two articulation agreements that will allow students to seamlessly continue their education. Attending the signing ceremony were, front from left, Elizabeth Dinndorf, president of Columbia College; and Dr. Ray Brooks, president of Piedmont Tech. Back, Dr. Laurie Hopkins, provost and vice president for academic affairs at Columbia College; Susan Timmons, vice president for academic affairs at PTC; Sissy Copeland, dean of business information technologies and public service at PTC; Dr. Jennifer Wilbanks, associate vice president for academic affairs and off-campus at PTC; and Evelyn Beck, dean of arts and sciences at PTC.