UMass Dartmouth and Northern Essex Community College partner to strengthen the nursing workforce

New dual admissions agreement creates a seamless path from associate to bachelor's degree in nursing

UMass Dartmouth and Northern Essex Community College (NECC) have entered into a new dual admissions agreement designed to make it easier for aspiring nurses to continue their education and advance their careers through UMass Dartmouth's fully online RN-BS program.

The partnership provides eligible Northern Essex nursing students with early, conditional admission to UMass Dartmouth while they complete their Associate Degree in Nursing. After earning their associate degree and obtaining RN licensure, students can seamlessly transition into UMass Dartmouth's online RN-BS program, allowing them to complete their bachelor's degree while balancing work and personal commitments.

“This partnership signals a commitment by both NECC and UMass Dartmouth to supporting students working in the field to advance their education,” said NECC Vice President of Academic Affairs Austin Gilliland. “The dual admissions agreement honors the foundation students build at NECC in the Associate Degree in Nursing Program along with the experience they build in the field as they become registered nurses.”

The agreement reflects both institutions' shared commitment to preparing highly qualified nurses and expanding access to affordable, flexible educational opportunities for students across the Commonwealth.

"At UMass Dartmouth, we're committed to creating opportunities that help students achieve their educational and professional goals," said Anne Berriault, Assistant Director of Admissions for UMass Dartmouth Online. "Our partnership with Northern Essex Community College provides nursing students with a clear, supportive pathway to earning their bachelor's degree while continuing to serve their communities as working professionals."

In addition to a simplified transfer process, eligible Northern Essex Community College graduates may also benefit from UMass Dartmouth Online's Success by Degrees program, which provides a tuition credit for qualifying community college graduates enrolled in fully online undergraduate programs.

Northern Essex has a variety of dual admissions agreements, seamless transfer pathways and transfer agreements with four-year institutions. Learn more by visiting NECC's webpage or contacting NECC Associate Dean for Academic and Advising Thomas Cole.

By removing barriers to transfer and creating a structured academic pathway, the agreement helps students continue their education with confidence while addressing the growing demand for bachelor's-prepared nurses throughout Massachusetts.