WCCD, AUM Sign Memorandum of Understanding

WCCD Instructional Affairs Dean Leslie Reeder (l) and AUM Chancellor Carl Stockton (r) after signing the MOU to expand nursing education pathways for WCCD Associate Degree Nursing students.

Wallace Community College–Dothan (WCCD) and Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) have entered into a new partnership focused on expanding nursing education pathways and strengthening Alabama’s health care workforce. The agreement creates a streamlined, cost-effective route for nursing students to earn both associate and bachelor’s degrees while accelerating their transition into the profession.

The partnership agreement was signed Monday at AUM in Montgomery and establishes a collaborative framework that includes a seamless transfer process, concurrent enrollment opportunities, transfer scholarships, reverse transfer options, and expanded student support services for WCCD students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at AUM.

“This memorandum of understanding demonstrates how strong institutional partnerships can accelerate student success while strengthening Alabama’s health care workforce,” said Dr. Kathy L. Murphy, WCCD President. “By collaborating with Auburn University at Montgomery, we are offering a concurrent nursing pathway that allows students to earn their credentials more efficiently. These forward-thinking partnerships play a critical role in meeting our state’s health care needs by expanding access to high-quality education and producing well-prepared professionals.”

“AUM is proud to partner with Wallace Community College–Dothan to create clear, supportive pathways for students to complete their bachelor’s degrees,” said AUM Chancellor Carl A. Stockton. “This agreement addresses affordability and time to degree, two of the biggest barriers students face, while ensuring they receive consistent advising and academic support throughout their college journey.”

A key component of the agreement is a concurrent enrollment program that allows qualified WCCD Associate Degree Nursing students to begin taking AUM coursework while completing their associate degree. The initial concurrent pathway will launch for students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from AUM, with additional programs expected to be added in the future.

Under the agreement, AUM nursing courses will be offered on WCCD’s campus, either in person or online, enabling students to accelerate degree completion while remaining connected to WCCD. This approach allows students to enter the nursing workforce sooner while simultaneously advancing their education toward a bachelor’s degree.

“We value our strong partnership with Auburn University at Montgomery,” said Leslie Reeder, WCCD Instructional Affairs Dean. “This agreement provides a clear, concurrent pathway for our Associate Degree Nursing students to earn their bachelor’s degree while completing their associate degree. It reflects our shared commitment to affordability, academic quality, and meeting the growing demand for skilled nurses in our region.”