Western Piedmont Community College, UNCW Partner for PathWays Program
Revised transfer protocols translate to guaranteed UNCW admission for eligible students
Coming soon in early 2024, it will be even easier for Western Piedmont Community College (WPCC) students to transfer to University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW).
Through the new PathWays program, the university aims to form partnerships with all 58 state community colleges that will guarantee admissions for eligible students and provide seamless support for those seeking a four-year degree.
“We want to make sure there are many roads that lead to becoming a UNCW Seahawk,” said Chancellor Aswani K. Volety. “Through PathWays, we are collaborating with our state education partners to reduce barriers and simplify the transfer process for all students seeking educational opportunities in our state.”
The new PathWays program, previously known as UNCW Pathways to Excellence, will further enhance the university’s collaboration with community colleges by providing qualifying students with a clear and guaranteed path to admissions. Students in this program will receive tailored communication and program opportunities. In addition, they will be connected to a Transfer Student Success Coordinator who can work with them to create a transfer plan based on their interests and intended major. Transfer students will also have UNCW application fees waived and priority status for merit scholarships and deadlines.
“Thanks to this new partnership with University of North Carolina Wilmington, our graduates have expanded opportunities to roll their coursework into valuable baccalaureate degrees,” said Vice President, Academic Affairs & Workforce Development Dr. Cindy Davies. “With a Western Piedmont degree in hand, our students will be ready to thrive in the supportive learning environment that UNCW promises.”
WPCC offers transfer options for students in Associate of Arts and Associate of Science programs. Jordan Lowe, Admissions & Academic Advisor, works alongside first-year transfer students to help them identify their educational goals and reach their next steps. After students complete their first 12-15 credit hours, a Faculty Advisor is assigned to serve as a mentor for the duration of their time at WPCC.
Stefanie Norris, UNCW director of transfer partnerships, said the majority of community colleges are participating in the PathWays program. Additionally, the university is adding more qualifying associate degrees to better meet the needs of students and the region’s workforce.
“This program is one of our many commitments to making UNCW a more transfer friendly destination for students across North Carolina,” Norris said. “We deeply value our partnerships with the North Carolina Community Colleges and want to assist students finding their way to UNCW as best we can.”
Students who had previously opted into the former Pathways to Excellence program are automatically transitioned into the new PathWays program, pending a partnership agreement with their community college. For students who have not yet joined UNCW’s guaranteed admission program, they should complete the PathWays interest form, and more information will be provided once the new program launches. Visit the UNCW website to learn more.
About WPCC
Western Piedmont Community College is situated in the picturesque rolling foothills of Morganton, North Carolina, and has served the citizens of Burke County since 1964. Apply online at wpcc.edu or visit the WPCC campus to apply in person.
About UNCW
UNC Wilmington, the state’s coastal university, is dedicated to the integration of teaching and mentoring with research and service. The university serves nearly 18,000 students and offers a full range of undergraduate and graduate-level programs, as well as select doctoral programs that address state needs. Learn more at uncw.edu.