NSU, KTC sign Memorandum of Understanding

Northeastern State University and Kiamichi Technology Center of Poteau have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for NSU to deliver two degree completion programs at the Poteau site. The signing was Nov. 29 on the KTC campus.

The Memorandum of Understanding with Kiamichi Technology Center allows students holding an associate's degree to complete one of two bachelors degrees entirely on the KTC campus. Students can choose to pursue either criminal justice or human and family sciences. Classwork will be provided through an accelerated eight week model using a limited traditional classroom setting blended with distance technologies.

"When we heard of the need NSU had to offer these programs, we jumped in," said Doug Hall, director of the KTC Poteau campus. "We wanted to be a good neighbor and partner to the program. What we offer all citizens in southeastern Oklahoma is a chance to better themselves in any career they choose, be that our traditional career tech programs or housing higher education opportunities in some of our classrooms. We want to help people in southeast Oklahoma prosper."

Officials from both institutions hope to raise the number of degrees available locally. NSU recruiters and advisers will use the four-year plans to help students make long-term academic decisions. An NSU representative will travel to the KTC campus to provide transcript evaluations and assist students with enrollment and advisement into the degree completion programs.

"Kiamichi Technology Center is hosting us by providing us space and allowing our recruiters to visit," said NSU Provost Martin Tadlock. "Both institutions are in this for the same reason to provide higher education access to the people of Oklahoma. Like NSU, KTC is a public institution supported by the people of its area. We are privileged to be able to deliver our programs here and we really appreciate KTC's hospitality."

NSU holds similar agreements with Tulsa Community College, Connors State College, Eastern Oklahoma State College, and Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College. The partnerships provide transfer students opportunities to complete a bachelors degree through NSU without leaving home.

Visit the Smart Choice website for more information.