New Agreement with JCCC Eases Transfer Experience

In recent years, a significant number of University of Saint Mary students have shared one thing in common – they started their educational journeys at Johnson County Community College.

These talented students have made up as much as 10 percent of the USM transfer class and matriculate on to graduation and promising careers.

To help ease the experience for students, USM and JCCC signed a memorandum of understanding on Aug. 26. This agreement will enhance the connection between the institutions and allow JCCC graduates to transfer up to 96 credit hours to programs at either USM campus. Other benefits include transfer scholarships for students at USM’s Leavenworth campus or tuition discounts for students at USM’s Overland Park location.

“USM has long looked for ways to improve the transfer experience for students, particularly when such improvements will allow students to earn bachelor’s degrees quickly, efficiently, and in the most cost-effective ways,” Vice President for Marketing and Admissions John Shultz said. “This MOU is a natural outgrowth of that effort – and it’s a natural fit.”

The agreement covers JCCC graduates with associate of arts or associate of science degrees, and there’s no student limit.

Beyond the financial benefit, these students will have a generous transfer credit policy, a dedicated counselor, and be considered finished with all lower-division general education requirements. These students will also enjoy the same experience – including courses of study, road to completion, and support services – no matter which USM campus they attend.