Contact: James Carskadon

STARKVILLE, Miss.—Mississippi State University and Pearl River Community College signed a memorandum of understanding today [March 4] to formalize partnership programs for students enrolled in technical education programs.

The agreement outlines a pathway for PRCC 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 need more two-year and four-year graduates to move Mississippi forward,” MSU President Mark E. Keenum said. “By working together, I believe we’ll be able to better assist our fellow Mississippians in gaining the education they need to compete for the jobs of the 21st century. We are committed to helping all of our BAS students excel, succeed and earn a bachelor’s degree—building on the excellent foundation they have been given at PRCC.”

“We’re always trying to provide our students with an opportunity to continue their education,” said PRCC President Adam Breerwood. “I’m grateful for Dr. Keenum’s support of the community college system and, more importantly, his support for providing our students with educational opportunities. The more well-skilled and trained workers we have with advanced degrees, the more chances we have to attract industry to our state and our region. The more opportunities we can provide to our students, the better off we will be.”

MSU launched its BAS program in 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.

The agreement between MSU and PRCC outlines which courses must be completed at each institution to fulfill degree requirements. An MSU advisor will assist in guiding PRCC students through BAS program pathways. Additionally, PRCC and MSU-Meridian will work together to provide classroom space for the delivery of synchronous online courses.

Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Applied Science program will have access to advisors from MSU-Meridian and MSU Online. 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.

For more on the Bachelor of Applied Science program, visit https://www.msstate.edu/students/bachelor-of-applied-science.

For more on Pearl River Community College, visit www.prcc.edu.

MSU is Mississippi’s leading university, available online at www.msstate.edu.