Historically Black Saint Augustine’s University in Raleigh, North Carolina, and historically Black Texas Southern University in Houston have entered into an agreement with the Colorado Community College System. The system’s signature Bridge to Bachelor’s Degree Program was launched in 2020. It guarantees new, first-time students admission to participating four-year institutions upon completion of an associate degree at a Colorado Community College System member. The two HBCUs will become the Colorado Community College System program’s first out-of-state transfer options.
Starting this fall, students in the community college system may select SAU or TSU as their intended transfer destination. Once enrolled, Bridge to Bachelor’s participants receive early advising from their destination college and benefit from additional services, such as academic counseling and financial aid. Students do not have to take specific tests or pay transfer application fees. Saint Augustine’s University will also provide scholarships to CCCS Bridge to Bachelor’s students as part of their agreement.
“We are constantly looking for ways to expand options for students and ensure they can live out their college dreams,” said Joe Garcia, chancellor of the Colorado Community College System. “We are proud to have TSU and SAU join our roster of transfer destinations and excited to see students take advantage of this unprecedented opportunity.”
Lesia L. Crumpton-Young, president of Texas Southern University, stated that “this cooperative effort provides accelerated opportunities for students to earn a bachelor’s degree and ultimately secure the career of their dreams. Together, we will transform lives and foster the next generation of leaders.”
Christine Johnson McPhail, president of Saint Augustine’s University, added that “through the creation of the HBCU Access Hub at CCCS, our institutions will successfully bridge the geographical access gap and bring the HBCU experience to Colorado students.”
