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Black Hawk College and Western Illinois University officially formalized a new articulation agreement during a signing event held on Wednesday, April 1, at the Black Hawk College Quad Cities campus in Moline.
The agreement establishes a collaborative partnership designed to create seamless academic pathways for students pursuing degrees in high-demand fields, including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, engineering technology and elementary and early childhood education.
Through this partnership, students who complete an associate degree at Black Hawk College — either an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science — with a minimum 3.0 GPA will be guaranteed admission to WIU. The agreement also includes application fee waivers and access to transfer scholarship opportunities for eligible students.
“This partnership is grounded in collaboration, trust, and a shared belief in the power of education to transform lives,” said Dr. Mary Barnes-Tilley, Vice President for Instruction and Chief Academic Officer at Black Hawk College. “By aligning our programs, we are removing barriers, reducing uncertainty, and opening doors.”
The partnership outlines clearly defined degree pathways that align coursework between the two institutions, allowing students to transfer efficiently and complete their bachelor’s degrees on time. Programs will be offered across WIU’s Quad Cities and Macomb campuses, with some hybrid options available to increase accessibility.
In addition to streamlined transfer processes, the agreement emphasizes coordinated academic advising and student support services. Designated staff from both institutions will work together to guide students through their educational journey and ensure a smooth transition from BHC to WIU.
“Western Illinois University and Black Hawk College offer excellent academic programs, services and opportunities for students to gain experience in the classroom and through internships,” said WIU President Dr. Kristi Mindrup. “This renewed partnership reflects our shared mission to expand opportunity, promote social mobility and transform lives and our communities through education.”
The agreement also includes a reverse transfer component, allowing students to earn an associate degree from BHC even after transferring to WIU, ensuring students receive credentials for completed coursework along the way.
The articulation agreement will remain in effect for five years, with opportunities to expand program offerings as workforce and student needs evolve.
Representatives from both institutions attended the signing event to celebrate the partnership and its impact on expanding educational opportunities in the region.