Northeastern State University and Carl Albert State College launch joint institution to expand educational access in northeastern Oklahoma

Partnership allows Carl Albert State College students to take classes at Northeastern State University, creating a path from associate to bachelor's degree.

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Northeastern State University (NSU) and Carl Albert State College (CASC) have established a new Joint Institute Dual Admission Program designed to expand educational opportunities and create a more seamless pathway from two-year to four-year degrees for students in northeastern Oklahoma.

Leaders from both institutions formalized the partnership with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Aug. 26, 2026.

The joint institution program will provide students with a streamlined pathway to a four-year degree at NSU, including enhanced academic advising and communication, access to NSU courses and support services, and scholarship assistance.

“When students have a clear, affordable path from an associate degree to a bachelor’s degree, our entire region benefits,” NSU President Rodney Hanley said. “This partnership gives students another way to continue their education while helping meet the workforce needs of northeastern Oklahoma.”

The partnership also provides students with additional support as they make the transition from an associate degree to a bachelor’s degree.

“At Carl Albert State College, we want our students to know that earning an associate degree is not the end of their educational journey—it can be the foundation for everything that comes next,” CASC President Jay Falkner said.

“This partnership with Northeastern State University gives our students a clear path forward, with additional support and resources in place to help them successfully transition to a four-year institution. Partnerships like this allow us to remove barriers, create opportunities and ensure our students can continue pursuing their goals while remaining connected to the communities we serve.”

Students accepted into the CASC & NSU Joint Institute Dual Admissions Program will receive $1,000 in scholarship support for their junior year and an additional $1,000 for their senior year at NSU, for a total of $2,000 in scholarship support.

The program is designed to reduce barriers to transfer and provide students with a more connected educational experience as they progress from an associate degree to a bachelor’s degree.

The program kicks off in fall 2026, with coursework available in flexible formats to accommodate students’ schedules and needs. In-person course options will also be available at CASC's Poteau and Sallisaw campuses as student demand warrants.

For more information about the CASC & NSU Joint Institute, call NSU Transfer Services at 918-444-3651.

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