UNC Charlotte and Stanly Community College have joined forces to pioneer the inaugural OnRamp to Charlotte Online agreement, a groundbreaking partnership tailored to support working adult students seeking a flexible online pathway from associate degree to bachelor’s degree.
This collaboration builds upon the foundation of the North Carolina Comprehensive Articulation Agreement, facilitating seamless information exchange between institutions. It aims to provide students with dedicated enrollment coaching and advising across a selection of programs offered by both colleges.
"Juggling work, family and studies, working adults seeking their bachelor's degree face unique challenges," said Asher Haines, associate provost of UNC Charlotte's School of Professional Studies. "By offering nationally ranked online programs with personalized advising and accelerated pathways at an incredible value, UNC Charlotte and Stanly Community College are paving the way for busy adults to achieve their goals, one flexible step at a time."
OnRamp to Charlotte Online bridges the gap for both Stanly Community College students seeking an online bachelor's at UNC Charlotte and future UNC Charlotte applicants who may need prerequisite credit. It provides a smooth progression for current students and tailored support for prospective ones, ensuring a seamless pathway to a UNC Charlotte degree.
"Many adult learners may not realize that an associate degree can be a powerful springboard to a 4-year university," said John Bowman, program head of University Transfer and English Department Head at Stanly Community College. "Our innovative OnRamp to Charlotte Online program makes it even easier by guaranteeing a smooth credit transfer, helping adults save time and money. Stanly's online environment is specifically designed for busy adults, providing flexible access and personalized support."
"With the UNC System’s approval of our newest online bachelor’s degree program in business administration last fall, partners like Stanly Community College are integral in the success of our students who will transfer to the upper division of the major beginning in spring 2025," said Tao-Hsien Dolly King, interim dean, UNC Charlotte Belk College of Business. "The Belk College welcomes the partnership with Stanly Community College as an affordable and flexible option for students who will earn their bachelor’s degree and are prepared to work at the Charlotte region’s top companies and organizations."
UNC Charlotte hopes to expand OnRamp to Charlotte to include other North Carolina community colleges. For three consecutive years, U.S. News & World Report has ranked UNC Charlotte in the top 10 in the nation for its online bachelor's programs for working adults. UNC Charlotte – through innovative partnerships including 49erNext – is the top destination for North Carolina community college transfer students.
For more information about OnRamp to Charlotte Online, visit online.charlotte.edu/onramp. Questions should be directed to Shanna Coles at shannacoles@charlotte.edu.