Belmont University and TBR launch transfer pathways for students who want to become teachers

Belmont University and the Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR) announced new statewide articulation agreements that create seamless transfer pathways from community colleges to Belmont for students who want to become teachers.

The new pathways are for students earning an Associate of Science in Teaching (AST) degree in K–5 Elementary Education or Middle School Education at any of Tennessee's 13 community colleges to continue their education in Belmont University's Bachelor of Science in Education programs.

Belmont University President Greg Jones and Tennessee Board of Regents Chancellor Flora W. Tydings signed the agreements Monday, Aug. 17, during a ceremony on Belmont's campus, joined by leaders of both institutions. 

The new agreements strengthen the partnership between Belmont University and TBR – The College System of Tennessee while expanding opportunities for future educators across the state. Last December, Belmont and TBR established a transfer pathway for community college nursing graduates to advance their education toward bachelor’s degrees in nursing at Belmont’s Inman College of Nursing.

The new teacher education articulation agreements provide clearly defined pathways for students to complete their first two years at a Tennessee community college before transferring to Belmont to complete their studies for a bachelor's degree in education. The agreements provide for aligned coursework, transfer credit equivalencies, and coordinated advising to help students transition successfully while preserving academic momentum. Students who complete the AST degree with the required academic standards and meet Belmont's admission requirements will be eligible to transfer.

“Few professions shape a community's future the way teaching does,” said Dr. Jones. “This partnership reflects Belmont's commitment to preparing educators who bring both skill and heart to their work. We're honored to join TBR and Tennessee's community colleges in building a stronger path into the classroom for the next generation of Tennessee teachers.”

"Tennessee's future depends on the quality of educators teaching our students," Dr. Tydings said. "These agreements create a seamless pathway for aspiring teachers to begin their education close to home at one of our community colleges and continue toward a bachelor's degree at Belmont. This partnership demonstrates what is possible when institutions work together to remove barriers for students while addressing our state's critical need for great classroom educators."

"Tennessee, like states across the country, has an urgent need for excellent PreK-12 educators, and this partnership is one way Belmont is working to be part of the solution,” said Dr. Jim McIntyre, dean of the Belmont’s College of Education. “I've spent my career in and around classrooms, first as a teacher and later serving in and alongside school districts, and I've seen how much a seamless pipeline like this articulation agreement matters for students who might not otherwise see a clear pathway into the teaching profession.”

Dr. Jothany Reed, TBR vice chancellor for academic affairs, said the agreements are another example of how collaboration can improve student success. "Strong transfer pathways are one of the most effective ways we can expand educational opportunity. These agreements give future teachers confidence that the work they complete at a community college will count toward a bachelor's degree, saving students time and money while creating a more efficient pathway into Tennessee's classrooms."

The agreements also establish ongoing collaboration between Belmont and the community colleges through coordinated advising, regular review of academic programs, and continued alignment of curricula to ensure students experience a seamless transition.

Tennessee's 13 community colleges provide high-quality academic and career programs that prepare students for transfer to universities or immediate entry into the workforce. Through Tennessee Promise, Tennessee Reconnect, and other financial aid programs, many students can begin their education tuition-free before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree.

Belmont University's College of Education has a longstanding commitment to preparing highly qualified teachers who serve communities throughout Tennessee and beyond. Its mission is to teach brilliantly, innovate boldly, advocate passionately, serve faithfully and to grow teachers and leaders who embody these ideals.