Students aiming to turn their passion for digital storytelling into an advanced degree now have a faster path, thanks to a new articulation agreement between the University of West Georgia and Georgia Highlands College (GHC).
The partnership opens two doors for undergraduates: one leading directly from GHC’s Bachelor of Science in Digital Media and Communication (DMCM) into UWG’s Master of Science in Digital and Social Media Communication (DMC), and another accelerated route that lets students jump-start their graduate coursework while still completing their bachelor’s degree.
The agreement, officially signed by leaders from both institutions, is designed to expand educational opportunities and create a clear, affordable path for students pursuing careers in digital and social media communication. By aligning the two programs, UWG and GHC are helping students save time, reduce costs and enter the workforce with advanced skills sooner. This initiative also contributes to the economic vitality of the region and state.
“By creating a seamless transition from undergraduate to graduate study, the agreement promotes academic continuity and minimizes barriers that often disrupt student progression,” said Dr. Brad Yates, dean of UWG’s School of Communication, Film and Media. “It ensures that students remain engaged in their field of study, supported by consistent advising and curricular alignment. This continuity fosters deeper learning, stronger academic outcomes, and increased retention and graduation rates, which are key indicators of student success.”
For the matriculation agreement, GHC students who successfully complete all qualifying criteria – DMCM completion, UWG graduate application and acceptance, and an overall GPA of 3.2 – will be awarded automatic admittance into UWG’s DSMC program.
GHC students can qualify for the Accelerated B.S. to M.S. track if they meet the same requirements, with one key difference: instead of a completed bachelor’s degree, they need at least 24 credit hours of DMCM coursework. This option allows students to receive both degrees in less than six years.
Dr. Mark Hobbs, GHC president, said their partnership with UWG continues to expand valuable pathways to career-ready degrees. This particular articulation agreement is the newest in a string of arrangements between the two schools.
“These opportunities not only support student success by providing clear and affordable routes to advanced education but also strengthen workforce development by ensuring our graduates are prepared to contribute meaningfully and immediately in their chosen fields,” Hobbs remarked. “Together, we are helping students achieve their goals while meeting the needs of employers and communities across our region.”
Dr. Jon Preston, UWG provost, emphasized that the agreement is designed with students’ long-term success in mind.
“This represents more than just a partnership between our two institutions – it’s an investment in our students’ futures,” he said. “By creating a seamless transition from undergraduate to graduate study, we’re empowering students to build on their passions, accelerate their education and enter a rapidly evolving field with a competitive edge. This partnership also highlights the benefit of working collaboratively as institutes within the University System of Georgia – we’re stronger and can better serve students together.”
Regarding the evolving field, Yates added that review and revision protocols were in place.
“By committing to this annual process, we’re ensuring that this partnership remains responsive to curricular changes and evolving industry standards, always keeping student success at the center,” he concluded. “This overall strategic opportunity formalizes a pathway that benefits students and advances the academic missions of both institutions.”
