A new agreement will make it easier for community college students in eastern Iowa to continue their studies at a four-year institution. Tuesday Augustana College and the Eastern Iowa Community Colleges introduced "Augustana Next."
Augustana Provost Wendy Hilton-Morrow says when students apply to the community colleges, they can also apply to Augustana.
"This includes an Augustana academic advisor who will help them dream what direction they want their life to go in, and an Augustana professor from their desired major to discuss course choices, topics, and available opportunities."
These students can also take evening classes at Augustana, and get a student I-D allowing access to the facilities, library, and campus activities.
EICC Vice Chancellor Joan Kindle says the new agreement will help students accomplish their goals.
"Being able to see when you start at Eastern Iowa where you're going next, and not only see it but feel it, because you're being able to experience classes, activities, advising, and an opportunity to get to know both campuses. It's an opportunity for students not only to see that future but actually begin to live it."
There's no extra cost to apply to Augustana Next, and no obligation to attend the college after receiving an associate's degree. Eastern Iowa students at the campuses in Muscatine, Clinton, and the Quad Cities, can apply to the new program starting this fall.
Doctor Hilton-Morrow hopes the new agreement will encourage students to stay in this area once they earn their four-year degree. EICC has about 475 Associate in Arts and Associate in Science graduates each year.
