Panthers Become Pioneers in 3+1 Program with William Paterson University
“From Panthers to Pioneers.” It was the slogan cheered at last month’s signing ceremony where a group of Passaic County Community College (PCCC) alumni were the first to sign on to a new 3+1 program agreement with William Paterson University (WP). The mascots of the institutions are Panthers and Pioneers.
Our 3+1 programs enable PCCC alumni who have an associate’s degree to earn a bachelor’s degree from one of our partner institutions in a more convenient and cost-effective process.
Students in a 3+1 program can take courses required in the third (junior level) year of a bachelor’s degree, while remaining conveniently on the PCCC campus, accessing PCCC services, and paying the PCCC tuition rate.
Upon successful completion of the third-year courses, students receive guaranteed admission to the partner institution, where they enroll in courses for their fourth (final) year of study at the partner’s campus and, upon successful completion, receive their bachelor’s degree.
Officials from both PCCC and WP were on hand for the December 22 ceremony at PCCC’s Main Campus in Paterson.
“This is an unbelievably exciting day,” said Dr. Susan Gaulden, Vice President for Strategic Initiatives at PCCC. “We are very proud of the students here today who are taking this next step in their education.” All of them, she noted, completed their associate’s degree in a business program.
Dr. Patrick Noonan, Senior Director of Community College & Dual Enrollment Partnerships at WP welcomed the new Pioneers. “Some of you have already visited the campus, and others will be coming soon. We look forward to having you.”
Thanking the students “for the confidence you expressed in choosing this program and William Paterson,” Dr. Anthony Bowrin, dean of the Cotsakos College of Business at WP, noted that professional development opportunities are among the experiences students can enjoy at WP and urged the newcomers to “reach out when you have questions. We are ready to help you succeed.”
According to Professor Tom Cox, chair of PCCC’s business department, the third-year program of class schedules has already been set up at the PCCC campus. “It’s going to be very exciting,” he predicted.
Currently, the 3+1 program at WP is available to PCCC graduates with an associate’s degree in a business or criminal justice program. Future plans call for expanding the areas of study that can qualify for 3+1 status.
Luis Miguel Perez earned his degree last May and is excited about remaining on the Paterson campus for another year. “I have a lot of love for PCCC, and this feels like a great opportunity,” said Luis. He plans to eventually pursue a career in accounting.
Yulisa Rosas, also interested in accounting, said she is open to exploring other possibilities at WP. “I was very interested when I heard about this opportunity, because it’s more convenient and affordable, so I can save some money on my bachelor’s degree.”
After posing for photos with costumed mascots, the new Pioneers enjoyed refreshments and left with swag bags of WP goods, including t-shirts and water bottles. As the first PCCC alumni to sign on to the program at WP, they proudly proved their pioneer spirit.
Learn more about 3+1 programs at PCCC.
Written by Linda Telesco
Photos by Romina Franco
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