Leaders from Rutgers University-New Brunswick and Middlesex College signed an agreement Oct. 31 creating a seamless transfer process for students pursuing bachelor’s degrees.

The first-of-its-kind collaboration between Rutgers and a two-year college offers students admitted to Middlesex College automatic conditional admission to the New Brunswick institution.

Key features and particulars of the agreement include:

• Middlesex students who have a minimum GPA of 2.8 and complete the application process are eligible to attend any academic program at Rutgers (with a few specific exceptions)
• With application fees waived and credits transferred, participating students will enter Rutgers as fully matriculated third-year students
• Both institutions will offer advising to students, beginning in their first semester at Middlesex
• Middlesex will process and provide financial aid during the associate degree period; Rutgers during the bachelor’s degree period

Opening opportunities

“Middlesex College is delighted to create this partnership with Rutgers University–New Brunswick, making it easy for students to continue their educational endeavors at the flagship public four-year institution of higher education in New Jersey,” said Middlesex College President Mark McCormick. “Providing accessibility to high-quality education close to home is central to our mission, and we look forward to collaborating with Rutgers on this important agreement that will benefit so many of our students.”

“Transfer partner institutions like Rutgers report that our students generally perform better than their native students in every outcome, including grade point average, time to degree, and attainment of the bachelor’s degree,” said Middlesex College board of trustees Chair Praful Raja. “With the signing of this new agreement, we are affirming for students and their parents that beginning at Middlesex College is a smart move that will position students for success at Rutgers–New Brunswick.”

“Rutgers–New Brunswick is proud to provide New Jersey’s brilliant students with a world-class education that is accessible and affordable and prepares them to succeed in their future pursuits and as engaged citizens,” said Rutgers–New Brunswick Chancellor Francine Conway. “Our partnership with Middlesex College creates new pathways for students who have completed their associate degrees at an outstanding institution and are ready to continue the life-changing journey of higher education.”

Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, D-19th District, said Middlesex County is blessed with exceptional institutions of higher education.

“And this collaboration will ensure more students can take advantage of tremendous opportunities at Middlesex College and Rutgers University,” said Coughlin. “I’m proud of our state support for both schools and each of these institutions will be enriched by this agreement. The region will thrive as more homegrown talent will pursue an affordable, excellent education.”

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