MARQUETTE — Bay College and Northern Michigan University recently announced an agreement designed to streamline academic pathways, offer online degree opportunities and empower aspiring social workers.

The agreement, signed by Bay College President Nerita Hughes and NMU President Brock Tessman, outlines a transfer process for students completing their associate of arts in social work degree at Bay College to pursue a bachelor of social work degree at NMU.

This partnership aims to eliminate barriers to educational attainment and facilitate a smooth transition for students seeking to advance their careers in social work.

Both Bay College and NMU have created online courses to enable students to complete degrees while remaining in their home communities.

“This transfer agreement creates a more dependable and easy-to-navigate course plan for students wanting to pursue a BSW degree,” said Ann Crandell-Williams, NMU bachelor of social work program director and associate professor. “NMU’s new, totally online BSW Global Campus program now makes it possible for students to start at Bay and, if they choose, complete their degrees online while remaining in their home communities.”

Agreements such as these are meant to address the growing demand for qualified social workers across the Upper Peninsula.

Mary Beth Bergeron, Delta Schoolcraft Intermediate School District social worker and school psychologist, said, “We need social workers, and clinical social workers in particular, to support children, adolescents, adults and families. The shortage of social workers is severe. Thank you, Bay College and Northern for this opportunity to expand mental health supports in our area.”

Jessica Van Slooten, Bay College dean of arts and sciences, added, “We’re thrilled to formalize this pathway and continue to build relationships with our colleagues at NMU. Collaborating to develop clear pathways benefits everyone.”