UA/Shelton State Bridge Program Offers Students Alternative Route to UA Degree

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – A select group of students will take a new path to The University of Alabama this fall, taking advantage of an innovative partnership between UA and Shelton State Community College.

Under a pilot program known as The University of Alabama/Shelton State Bridge program, a limited number of students who came close to meeting UA’s admission standards will have the opportunity to enter UA after attending Shelton State for one year and meeting certain requirements. Students enrolled in the Bridge program will take one UA course each semester and have access to a number of UA resources and activities including a UA Student Action Card, access to UA libraries and eligibility to purchase a UA meal plan, health services and a parking permit.

“This transitional program will give some deserving students a new option for earning a University of Alabama degree,” said Dr. Judy Bonner, UA executive vice president and provost. “We believe this partnership with Shelton State will provide these worthy students the support they need to be successful both at Shelton and UA.”

“We are delighted to be working with The University of Alabama and the students in the Bridge Program,” said Camille Cochrane, dean of instructional services at Shelton State. “Shelton State students have always experienced a high rate of success as transfer students. The Bridge Program will create a strong learning community for these students making the transition to the University a seamless and natural process.”

Students in the Bridge program will be required to take 24 hours of core courses at Shelton State as well as two UA courses taught on the Shelton campus and earn a grade point average of at least 2.5 to be eligible to transfer to UA. The UA courses will focus on giving first-year students resources and support needed to successfully transition to college. They will be taught by a UA staff member, who will also serve as an advisor to the students.

“The students in this program are right on the edge of meeting UA’s admissions requirements. We are confident that they will do well at Shelton and at the University. Having access to the University’s resources from day one will make this transitional year a smooth and effective process for the students,” said Dr. Cali Davis, coordinator of the Bridge program for UA.

The program begins with orientation June 28-29.

Serving approximately 8,500 credit and non-credit students in West Alabama, Shelton State Community College is currently ranked as the 22nd fastest growing community college in the country. Shelton State is committed to meeting the needs of a diverse population and enriching the lives of students and the community through a unique blend of academic and career training programs.