March 10, 2023
SWOSU Press Release
Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) and Western Oklahoma State College (WOSC) have partnered to increase collaborations in the critical fields of nursing and education. The partnerships signed on March 8 promote degree completion for students and enable both institutions to collaborate in these areas of critical need.
The first of the two partnerships enable pre-education majors at WOSC to qualify for the Inspired to Teach Scholarship while at WOSC, transfer to SWOSU after completing an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts in Pre-Education and maintain their active status in the Inspired to Teach scholarship. This articulation agreement, supported by the Inspired to Teach scholarship, is a joint effort between SWOSU and WOSC to address the ongoing teacher shortage in Oklahoma.
The second partnership provides a transfer pathway for students from WOSC in the Applied Science in Nursing (ADN) program to pursue SWOSU’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program specifically for licensed registered nurses. The partnership will help support students as they continue their nursing educational journey from an associate degree to a bachelor’s degree in nursing. It will also provide WOSC students with an Associate’s degree in Pre-Education the opportunity to complete a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education at SWOSU.
“Our commitment during this critical time of need is to support Oklahoma in addressing its nursing and teacher shortages, ensuring that our healthcare and education systems are strengthened,” said SWOSU President, Dr. Diana Lovell. “We would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Wiginton and WOSC for partnering with us on these meaningful agreements.”
The articulation agreements between the two institutions were signed by SWOSU President Dr. Diana Lovell and WOSC President Dr. Chad Wiginton at a ceremony held in the Loweta Chesser Conference Center at Western Oklahoma State College on March 8, 2023.
Upon successful completion of required courses, eligible WOSC students will be able to complete their bachelor’s degree at SWOSU.
“With an agreement in place that provides a clear pathway for Western’s nursing graduates into SWOSU’s BSN program, the process is simplified, ensuring a smooth transition from one institution to the other,” said WOSC President, Dr. Chad Wiginton. “With President Lovell’s support, we are both working diligently to do our part in addressing the nursing shortage and providing quality healthcare employees for Western Oklahoma and beyond.”
Interested students should contact their academic advisor. To learn more about SWOSU, visit swosu.edu and to learn more about WOSC, visit wosc.edu.
About Southwestern Oklahoma State University
Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has proudly stood on the hilltop in Weatherford, Oklahoma since its establishment in 1901. Offering over 100 affordable undergraduate and graduate programs across three locations in Weatherford, Sayre, and Yukon, SWOSU provides a diverse range of academic opportunities with high-quality education to its students. The university boasts a vibrant community of more than 5,000 scholars and over 200 dedicated faculty and staff. With strong academic programs and a commitment to excellence, SWOSU continues to be a top choice for students seeking a quality education.
About Western Oklahoma State College
Western Oklahoma State College, established as Altus Junior College in 1926, is the oldest original municipal two-year college still in existence in Oklahoma. At Western, excellence is more than just a slogan; it is a way of life for our students, faculty, staff, and community. Western provides affordable high quality education while ensuring equity, supporting student success, and empowering individuals to become productive members of diverse local, regional, and global communities. Face-to-face and online courses create a flexible environment for students to complete their degree. When you’re at Western you are more than a student, you are part of a family.
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