ETSU’s Bears to Bucs program, a new guaranteed admissions pathway designed to make the transition from community college to university seamless for students pursuing a bachelor’s degree, is now available to Northeast State Community College students.

Leaders from East Tennessee State University and Northeast State Community College formally signed an agreement on June 3 establishing Bears to Bucs, a new guaranteed admissions program designed to make the transition from community college to university seamless for students pursuing a bachelor’s degree.

The partnership creates a clear pathway for students to begin at Northeast State, earn an associate degree and transfer directly to ETSU with guaranteed university admission upon meeting program requirements.

“We are excited to strengthen our partnership with ETSU through the Bears to Bucs program,” said Dr. Jeff McCord, president of Northeast State. “By creating a clear transfer pathway, students can navigate the transition from community college to university programs with greater confidence and stronger connection.”

Leadership from both institutions gathered for the signing ceremony to celebrate the collaboration and a shared commitment to increasing access to higher education opportunities across the region.

“This partnership reflects a collective investment in the future of our region,” said Dr. Brian Noland, president of ETSU. “Through the program, our institutions are working together to remove barriers for students, strengthen educational pathways and prepare the next generation of professionals in the region and beyond.”

More than a transfer agreement, Bears to Bucs is designed to help students feel connected, confident and supported throughout their college journey. Students in the program will build relationships with university staff early in their academic careers, participate in campus events and activities and gain access to ETSU resources.

The program aims to ease the uncertainty often associated with transferring colleges while helping students stay on track to graduate on time and prepare for successful careers after graduation. Students enrolled in Bears to Bucs will receive support from both institutions, helping them navigate coursework, transfer credits, academic planning and major-specific pathways.

“This partnership with Northeast State creates a supportive pathway for students to continue their educational journey at ETSU,” said Timothy Lewis, ETSU’s director of undergraduate recruitment. “Bears to Bucs is centered on student success and aims to help students feel involved and connected throughout the transfer process while providing the resources and guidance they need to thrive academically and personally.”

To participate in the Bears to Bucs pathway, students must plan to pursue both an associate and a bachelor’s degree and meet current admission criteria for Tennessee community colleges. Students who meet all program requirements are guaranteed admission to ETSU upon completing an eligible associate degree.

For more information about eligibility requirements and how to enroll, visit the Bears to Bucs webpage.