Bristol Community College and Elms College, in Chicopee, Mass., have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU), creating more seamless paths for Bristol students to complete their bachelor’s degrees in biology or biotechnology.

The agreement saves students time and money by guaranteeing that students who earn an  Associate in Science in Life Sciences at Bristol will enter the Bachelor of Science in biology or biotechnology programs at Elms College with at least 60 accepted transfer credits and third-year status. The programs are open to all Bristol transfer students who have completed their associate degree with a minimum grade point average of 2.0. 

“This cost-saving pathway will combine the academic support and transfer resources of both institutions, simplifying the transition to a bachelor's degree program, while aiding student success,” said Dr. Laura L. Douglas, President, Bristol Community College. “This collaboration is also a wonderful extension of Bristol Community College and Elms College’s shared mission of expanding access to higher education.” 

“We are delighted to partner with Bristol Community College to offer students a seamless and flexible path to continue their education at Elms College and at the same time bring more skilled workers in the life sciences to the region,” said Harry E. Dumay, Ph.D., MBA, President, Elms College.

In addition to guaranteed admission and seamless transition to Elms College, Bristol students will also benefit from additional offerings including: 

  • Collaborative academic advising and transfer counseling from Bristol Community College and Elms College, to aid success.  
  • Enrollment in Elms College’s Master of Biotechnology or Biomedical Sciences programs for interested students who successfully complete the Bachelor of Science in biology or biotechnology program with a grade point average of 3.5. 
  • Eligibility for Elms College financial aid and housing consideration as appropriate.

For more information about the program please contact Bristol Community College’s Transfer Services, by calling 774.357.2234, or emailing transfer@bristolcc.edu.