MCC Creates Joint Strategic Partnership with University of Central Missouri to Strengthen Transfer Pathways
Shown: Dr. Kimberly Beatty, Chancellor and CEO of MCC and UCM President Roger Best sign the joint agreement at the recent MOU signing ceremony held at MCC-Penn Valley’s campus.
MCC and the University of Central Missouri (UCM) signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) creating a concurrent enrollment pathway called Direct Connect for MCC students. Simultaneously, a new agreement was signed by the colleges introducing a seamless transfer to the UCM Honors College.
UCM Direct Connect is UCM’s collaborative transfer program designed to provide a clear pathway for concurrent enrollment at MCC and UCM. Students who complete an associate in arts, associate in science or associate in arts in teaching degree from MCC will be able to transfer to UCM at a junior status, provided they meet applicable admissions and program requirements.
“This collaboration is more than just an agreement; it is a bridge,” states Dr. Kimberly Beatty, Chancellor and CEO of Metropolitan Community College, “it allows students to begin building their future through MCC and continue at a four-year institution, benefiting from accessibility, affordability and the strong foundation of their community college education.”
Under this agreement, students receive coordinated support from both institutions while they are concurrently enrolled. Direct Connect students benefit from joint advising, transcript sharing at no cost and tutoring services at both institutions. Additionally, students enjoy the best of MCC and UCM throughout their joint programs. They will experience campus life at UCM – engaging with faculty, resources and a vibrant university environment – while taking advantage of MCC’s multi-campus locations and its ability to meet students where they are, regardless of their level of academic preparation.
“With UCM and MCC working together, students will have the support they need to successfully complete what they started,” states UCM President Roger Best. “This relationship extends beyond signing papers. It is about serving students, serving each other and serving the State of Missouri.”
UCM stands as one of MCC’s top universities for transfer students, making it an ideal partner for MCC. This agreement creates a ten-year partnership and it begins in the fall 2026 semester allowing for students can begin concurrently enrolling now.