Milwaukee City Wire

The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) will introduce nearly 50 new program pathways with Moraine Park Technical College (MPTC), ensuring MPTC students can seamlessly continue their education at UWM with junior status. UWM Chancellor Mark Mone, UWM Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Andrew Daire, MPTC President Bonnie Baerwald, and MPTC Vice President of Teaching and Learning Doug Hamm signed 49 articulation agreements at MPTC’s campus in West Bend on Wednesday.

“We believe that education should be accessible to all,” said Mone. “This agreement guarantees admission and streamlines the transfer process, demonstrating our commitment to breaking down barriers and empowering students to pursue a life-changing education.”

These articulation agreements will enable MPTC students completing associate degrees to transition into specific UWM bachelor’s degree programs across various colleges, including the College of Community Engagement & Professions, College of Engineering & Applied Science, College of Health Professions & Sciences, Joseph J. Zilber College of Public Health, College of Letters & Science, and the Lubar College of Business.

Students who have completed an associate degree at MPTC will likely receive credit for more bachelor’s degree requirements than those with individual courses, guaranteeing them junior status.

“At Moraine Park, we strive to serve our students throughout their entire educational journey – this includes after they leave our campuses and transfer on to our four-year partners,” said Hamm. “These agreements with UWM hold significant importance as it not only serves our students but also continues to fill the educational needs of Washington County constituents in light of recent changes in the higher education landscape.”

The new transfer agreements build upon an initial partnership between UWM and four regional technical colleges established in January. All associate degree holders from Milwaukee Area Technical College, Waukesha County Technical College, MPTC, and Gateway Technical College are guaranteed a seamless transfer of at least 60 credits toward a bachelor’s degree at UWM. Interested students need only complete a brief intent form – for free – rather than a lengthier formal admission application.

UWM decided to close its Washington County campus after the spring 2024 semester due to years of enrollment declines and budgetary challenges. The articulation agreements signed Wednesday aim to meet the needs of students and employers in the county while ensuring the university’s long-term success.

“This is a dream come true. I hope this collaboration is just the beginning of the lasting impacts that will be felt by our students and community,” said Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann.