The presidents of OSU Institute of Technology and Rogers State University signed an articulation agreement Tuesday that makes it easier for students from both universities to transfer to the other and complete their degree.
The location for the signing symbolized the two institutions’ ongoing partnership with MidAmerica Industrial Park, as both will have a presence at the park when RSU’s new campus opens in January.
“As institutions of higher education, our primary goals are to equip students for their future and ensure what they learn while enrolled translates to what they need to know when they embark on their careers,” OSUIT President Path said.
“Northeast Oklahoma has a workforce deficit in key skilled labor sectors, and we believe that the synergy of OSUIT and RSU can result in a larger pool of talent for employers.”
As a result of the agreements, OSUIT students may now transfer their associate degree seamlessly to RSU and finish their education with a bachelor’s degree in their field. Also, students who transfer from OSUIT to RSU prior to completing their degree may later apply those hours earned from RSU toward an associate degree at OSUIT.
“Both OSUIT and RSU share a mission to provide educational opportunities for Oklahomans and the number of state residents who hold college degrees,” RSU President Rice said. “We are fully committed to help our students get the maximum value for the college credit they have earned and, most importantly, assist them in the successful completion of their degree.”
As Oklahoma’s largest industrial park, MidAmerica is recognized for attracting global manufacturing, processing and distribution firms. The educational partnership between OSUIT and RSU will serve workforce development needs not only for the industrial park, but for business and industry throughout the region.
“The presence of both universities here at MidAmerica has been a win-win for everyone involved,” said David Stewart, MAIP Administrator. “They are taking the lead, through collaborative efforts, to deliver high-quality academic program that will develop a world-class workforce for the benefit of our regional economy.”