Middle Tennessee State University and Columbia State Community College administrators formally agreed today to facilitate the transfer of CSCC nursing students seeking to upgrade their associate degrees to bachelor’s degrees through MTSU’s program.

The arrangement will provide for specific advisement for Columbia State students who intend to transfer to MTSU and encourage academic and administrative coordination between the institutions.

“This will help students and provide a critical need,” Dr. Sidney McPhee (pictured), MTSU president, said in a release. “The Tennessee Board of Regents wants to increase the number of graduates in critical areas, and this program will help take out the hassle, allowing for an easier transition. This pact with Columbia State is a true win-win for the students and faculty at both of our institutions.”

Nursing and academic officials at both schools, including Columbia State President Janet F. Smith (pictured), praised the agreement and how it also involves Maury Regional Medical Center in Columbia.