Northern Michigan University and Bay College have announced an articulation agreement designed to streamline academic pathways, offer online degree opportunities and empower aspiring social workers.
The agreement, signed by NMU President Brock Tessman and Bay College President Nerita Hughes, outlines a seamless transfer process for students completing their associate of arts in social work degree at Bay to pursue a bachelor of social work degree at NMU. This partnership aims to eliminate barriers to educational attainment and facilitate a smooth transition for students seeking to advance their careers in social work.
Both institutions have created online courses to enable students to complete degrees while remaining in their home communities.
“This transfer agreement creates a more dependable and easy-to-navigate course plan for students wanting to pursue a BSW degree,” said Ann Crandell-Williams, NMU BSW program director and associate professor. “NMU's new, totally online BSW Global Campus program now makes it possible for students to start at Bay and, if they choose, complete their degrees online from home.”
The partnership represents a collaborative effort to address the growing demand for qualified social workers across the Upper Peninsula.
“We need social workers, and clinical social workers in particular, to support children, adolescents, adults and families," said Mary Beth Bergeron, Delta Schoolcraft Intermediate School District social worker and school psychologist. "The shortage of social workers is severe. Thank you, Bay College and Northern for this opportunity to expand mental health supports in our area.”
Jessica Van Slooten, Bay College Dean of Arts and Sciences, added, “We're thrilled to formalize this pathway and continue to build relationships with our colleagues at NMU. Collaborating to develop clear pathways benefits everyone.”
For more information about this transfer agreement, please contact the following individuals:
Tanya Savage, assistant director for transfer pathways and partnerships at NMU, 906-227-2644 or tsavage@nmu.edu; or Jillena Rose, transfer and advising at Bay College, 906-217-4047 or jillena.rose@baycollege.edu
Learn more about NMU's BSW program here.