Gaston College and Gardner-Webb Leadership launch new Direct-Entry Transfer Program
Gardner-Webb University and Gaston College (GC) have announced a new partnership to establish “Bulldog Bound,” a co-admission transfer program agreement for Gaston College students who want to obtain their four-year degree from the University.
Officials for both schools signed agreements that will allow currently-enrolled Gaston College students to participate in the seamless direct-entry pathway to Gardner-Webb upon graduation from Gaston College. Students who wish to participate in the Program must satisfy the GWU admission and transfer degree requirements.
In addition to admission to Gardner-Webb, “Bulldog Bound” allows for seamless entry into some majors through formal Pathway agreements that already exist between Gaston College and GWU. Gaston College students pursuing applied science programs in accounting, business administration, criminal justice, education, healthcare management, human services, and nursing can finish their bachelor’s degrees in GWU’s Global Opportunities for Adult Learners (GOAL)-The Degree Completion Program (GOAL-DCP). Currently, 77 Gaston College alumni are enrolled at Gardner-Webb. Two are in the residential program and 75 in GOAL-DCP.
“The ‘Bulldog Bound’ Program will help Gaston College students stay focused and be prepared to move to the next level so they can complete their bachelor’s degree much more quickly, potentially reduce debt, and enter the workforce given the labor market demand for workers with post-secondary credentials,” stated Dr. Patricia Skinner, president of Gaston College. “We believe our partnership with Gardner-Webb University will be a model of quality and collaboration that will benefit our students and both of our institutions.”
Gardner-Webb anticipates enrolling scholars who have participated in Gaston College’s national award-winning SPARC program. SPARC is a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) learning community focused on undergraduate research and student enrichment programs that has been a leader in STEM student preparation. An important element of the SPARC program is for students to attain a bachelor’s degree or higher after graduation from Gaston College.
“I am delighted to formalize this new partnership between Gardner-Webb University and Gaston College,” asserted Dr. William M. Downs, president of Gardner-Webb University. “Our colleagues at Gaston College are developing some strong programs—in the STEM fields and beyond—and this agreement will ensure that those students who wish to continue their studies may do so seamlessly and successfully at GWU. We look forward to welcoming these future Runnin’ Bulldogs.”
About Gardner-Webb University
Located in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb University provides exceptional educational opportunities within a Christian environment, preparing students to think critically, to succeed professionally, and to serve faithfully as members of their local and global communities.
About Gaston College
Gaston College is a public community college, located in Gaston and Lincoln counties, that has for more than 50 years promoted student success and lifelong learning through high-caliber, affordable and comprehensive educational programs and services responding to economic and workforce development needs.
For more information, visit: Bulldog Bound Transfer Program.
