One of the fastest growing comprehensive universities in the nation and one of the top five two-year schools in Texas cemented an agreement today that aims to boost the success of college-bound students and grow a well-educated Central Texas workforce.
As part of its Dual Admissions Transfer Pathway, Tarleton State University will simultaneously accept first-time McLennan Community College students who plan to complete their associate degree at MCC and then transfer to Tarleton to earn a bachelor’s. Tarleton will hold tuition the same as when the students opt in as well as offer specialized programming, supports and access to events such as athletics.
A member of MCC’s University Center in Waco for almost 25 years, Tarleton State offers 30 undergraduate, graduate and certificate opportunities, with more expected for fall 2024.
“More than promoting access to enrollment, MCC-to-Tarleton fosters access to completion,” said Tarleton State President James Hurley. “Finishing a university degree is critical to improved quality of life.”
“We’re excited about the opportunities this co-admission program brings for our students and our community,” said MCC President Johnette McKown. “The state’s 60x30TX higher education plan wants 60 percent of the 25- to 34-year-old Texas population to hold a certificate or degree by 2030. MCC-to-Tarleton is a vital component of our response to that.
“Our partnership with Tarleton State enables all parties to accomplish more than we could alone.”
Tarleton had barely 30 students at MCC’s University Center that first year. Today it’s 800, with more than 4,500 graduates over the nearly 25-year collaboration.
Dr. Hurley: “We’re turning Central Texas into a hub for educational opportunity. We value our transfer students, welcome them and want them to feel at home as a Tarleton Texan.”
MCC-to-Tarleton will see its first cohort in fall 2024.
