In a significant development for educational equity, City Colleges of Chicago (CCC) and National University (NU) have announced a partnership aimed at widening access and opportunities for students, especially for those who are active military or veterans. The announcement comes at a timely juncture, celebrated during National Student Transfer Week and in honor of Veterans Day, marking a pivotal milestone for both institutions.
Bridging Gaps in Education
The new agreement between CCC and NU sets a pathway for City Colleges students to transfer and complete their bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees at National University. Students transferring through this agreement will do so with junior standing, allowing a seamless progression in their academic journey. Additionally, the partnership opens doors to various financial aids, such as tuition discounts and scholarships, significantly easing the financial burden on students and their families.
Inclusivity and Support for Diverse Student Bodies
A core objective of this initiative is inclusivity and targeted support for non-traditional students. Both CCC and NU are recognized as Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) and are committed to creating flexible, affordable, and high-quality educational pathways for their students. This partnership is particularly mindful of the unique challenges faced by first-generation, non-traditional, and military students, offering them customized support and resources tailored to their needs.
Removing Barriers to Higher Education
Dr. Mark D. Milliron, president and CEO of National University, has highlighted the significance of creating seamless transfer pathways to expand access to education. Mark Potter, Provost and Chief Academic Officer of CCC, echoed this sentiment by emphasizing the shared mission to meet diverse educational goals. This collaboration is designed not just to place students in competitive careers but also to promote socioeconomic mobility and racial equity.
Benefits for Faculty and Staff
The partnership also extends considerable benefits to City Colleges’ faculty and staff. They, along with their spouses and dependents, are eligible for discounted tuition rates for advanced degrees at National University. This initiative further promotes professional development and educational advancement within the City Colleges community, nurturing a culture of lifelong learning.
Robust Support for Military Students
National University’s recognition as a Military Friendly® institution also plays a crucial role in this collaboration. The university provides comprehensive support for active-duty servicemembers, veterans, and their dependents. Veteran certification as part of the transfer process ensures that military students receive the academic and financial assistance they need, making higher education more accessible to those who serve.
A Success Story: Maryam Muhammad
The transformative potential of this partnership is exemplified in the success story of Maryam Muhammad. Taking advantage of CCC’s ‘Fresh Start’ program, Muhammad was able to clear her debts and continue her education. She went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Biomedical Science from National University and is now pursuing a Master’s Degree in Nutrition. Her journey underscores the broader goals of this partnership: to enable students to achieve their academic and career aspirations regardless of their background or circumstances.
Promoting Lifelong Learning
City Colleges of Chicago (CCC) and National University (NU) have unveiled a groundbreaking partnership designed to enhance educational access and opportunities, particularly for active military members and veterans. This significant development comes at a poignant moment, coinciding with National Student Transfer Week and Veterans Day, underscoring a shared commitment to educational equity and support for those who have served our country.
The collaboration between CCC and NU aims to streamline the transfer process, providing clearer pathways and additional resources for students. This includes special programs and scholarships tailored to meet the unique needs of military personnel and veterans, ensuring they have the tools necessary to succeed in higher education and beyond.
With this partnership, both institutions are taking a critical step toward removing barriers to education and fostering a more inclusive academic environment. By aligning their resources and expertise, CCC and NU are setting a new standard for educational institutions committed to serving diverse student populations, advocating for better educational outcomes for all.