The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee will add nearly 50 new program pathways with Moraine Park Technical College that will guarantee MPTC students can seamlessly continue their education at UWM with a confirmed junior status.
UWM Chancellor Mark Mone, UWM Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Andrew Daire, MPTC President Bonnie Baerwald and MPTC Vice President of Teaching and Learning Doug Hamm signed 49 articulation agreements at MPTC’s campus in West Bend on Wednesday.
“We believe that education should be accessible to all,” Mone said. “This agreement guarantees admission and streamlines the transfer process, demonstrating our commitment to breaking down barriers and empowering students to pursue a life-changing education.”
These program-to-program articulation agreements will allow MPTC students completing one of the many associate degrees at MPTC to seamlessly transition into specific UWM bachelor’s degree programs at one of the following schools: College of Community Engagement & Professions, College of Engineering & Applied Science, College of Health Professions & Sciences, Joseph J. Zilber College of Public Health, College of Letters & Science, or the Lubar College of Business.
Additionally, students who have completed an associate degree at MPTC will likely get credit for more bachelor’s degree requirements than those with individual courses, putting them at a guaranteed junior status.
“At Moraine Park, we strive to serve our students throughout their entire educational journey – this includes after they leave our campuses and transfer on to our four-year partners,” Hamm said. “These agreements with UWM hold significant importance, as it not only serves our students but also continues to fill the educational needs of Washington County constituents in light of recent changes in the higher education landscape.”
The new transfer agreements with MPTC builds upon an initial partnership between UWM and four regional technical colleges made in January. All associate degree holders from Milwaukee Area Technical College, Waukesha County Technical College, MPTC and Gateway Technical College are guaranteed a seamless transfer of at least 60 credits toward a bachelor’s degree at UWM. Interested students will only need to complete a brief intent form – for free – rather than a lengthier, formal admission application.
UWM made the difficult decision to close its Washington County campus after the spring 2024 semester due to years of enrollment declines and budgetary challenges. The articulation agreements signed Wednesday will allow UWM to meet the needs of students and employers in the county while ensuring the university’s long-term success.
“This is a dream come true. I hope this collaboration is just the beginning of the lasting impacts that will be felt by our students and community,” said Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann, who was in attendance.