GCC, NMU Reduce Barriers for Transfer Students
Gogebic Community College and Northern Michigan University have partnered on an innovative and comprehensive agreement that will provide a seamless pathway for transfer students to embark on bachelor's degrees, enhancing access and affordability for Upper Peninsula and northern Wisconsin students. In conjunction with this new program, GCC has also created a permanent NMU satellite office on its Ironwood campus for NMU Admissions and recruitment events with academic departments.
In the direct admission program, GCC students will be admitted to NMU during their time at GCC—that is, they will technically be at both institutions simultaneously. The program aims to eliminate barriers for transfer students, promote student wellbeing, enhance transfer student connections to the Marquette and campus community and guide efficient, effective student use of resources at both institutions.
To acclimate to Northern's culture, GCC students will have access to academic and career advising, Lydia M. Olson Library privileges, a MyNMU account, an NMU email address, a free official transcript from GCC and access to campus events and student life activities.
“Students who apply for admission to GCC will be offered an option to participate in the Direct Admission Program,” said Lucas Abromowitz, senior associate director of transfer recruitment management in NMU Admissions. “A student is not obligated to transfer to Northern by participating. Direct admission from GCC to NMU allows transfer students to indicate an early intention to transfer, streamlining their transition and improving their chances of degree attainment at both institutions.”
Students who elect to participate in the Direct Admission Program are encouraged to meet each semester with their academic advisers at both institutions. All Direct Admission students who meet all NMU admissions requirements are eligible to shift to degree-seeking status at Northern for the term they choose.
“We are thrilled about this opportunity for our students at GCC. These strong partnerships cultivate success for our graduates and we look forward to watching students take advantage of this great opportunity,” said Karen Ball, GCC Interim Dean of Occupational Programs/Registrar.
The agreement serves as a bridge between the two institutions by facilitating student entry or re-entry into a bachelor's degree program at Northern, with the goal of increasing transfer student retention and graduation rates.
Find information on transferring to NMU here. Learn more about GCC here.
