MSU, Bishop State Community College sign MOU for Bachelor of Applied Science degree program

Composite image of university leaders signing an MOU — �̾��ƵPresident Mark E. Keenum, left photo, and Bishop State Community College President Reggie Sykes sign a memorandum of understanding to create a transfer pathway for Bishop State students to complete MSU’s Bachelor of Applied Science Degree. Pictured with Keenum is Susan Seal, executive director of MSU’s Center for Distance Education. Pictured with Sykes is Roderick McSwain, Dean of Instruction (left), and Wilbert Bryant, Dean of Students (right). (Photos by Beth Wynn and Courtney Steele)

STARKVILLE, Miss.—�̾��Ƶ and Bishop State Community College in Mobile, Alabama, signed a memorandum of understanding today [July 27] to formalize partnership programs for students enrolled in technical education programs.

The agreement outlines a pathway for Bishop State students to complete MSU’s new Bachelor of Applied Science program, leveraging the strengths of both institutions to provide more opportunities in technical education and meet current and future workforce demands.

“We are proud to partner with Bishop State as we provide a pathway for their technical education students to carry their course credits over in pursuit of a four-year degree, increasing their career opportunities and earnings potential,” said �̾��ƵPresident Mark E. Keenum. “This is a great day for both �̾��Ƶand Bishop State as we expand educational opportunities in the Gulf Coast region.”

“We are excited to provide this opportunity to our students,” said Bishop State President Reggie Sykes. “This articulation agreement with Mississippi State creates a seamless transfer for our students which makes it easier for them to continue to excel and reach their goals."

�̾��Ƶlaunched its Bachelor of Applied Science program last August, significantly expanding the university’s acceptance of technical credit from community colleges and military training. It is intended to serve the needs of adults who have completed a technical associate’s degree program through a community college or the military and need additional education to advance their careers. �̾��Ƶannounced new emphasis areas for the BAS program in April.

�̾��Ƶadvisors work closely with BAS students at community colleges to provide guidance on transferring credits and using the degree program to maximize career potential. With four campus options – Online, Starkville, Meridian and Gulf Coast – students can find a learning path that fits their needs. Credits in the degree program can be earned through online or in-person courses, providing the flexibility that has become a hallmark of MSU’s nationally ranked online offerings.

The agreement between �̾��Ƶand Bishop State outlines which courses must be completed at each institution to fulfill degree requirements, as well as library and campus resources that can be used by students dually enrolled at each institution.

For more on the Bachelor of Applied Science program, visit .

Bishop State Community College is a state-supported, open-admission, urban community college with a mission to provide its students with a quality and affordable education that equips them with the skills and knowledge needed to successfully enter the workforce and thrive. For more, visit .

�̾��Ƶis Mississippi’s leading university, available online at .

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