MOUNT OLIVE — Mount Olive College (MOC) and Craven Community College (CCC) have reached a partnership agreement that will enhance and expand options for community college students. The Mount Olive College Advantage (MOCA) allows associate degree graduates from Craven Community College to transfer seamlessly into the full range of bachelor degree programs at any of Mount Olive College's six locations in eastern North Carolina.

Under the arrangement, which was formally signed on Friday, CCC students are eligible to apply for all state and federal financial aid. Other components of the agreement include:

• Mount Olive College will guarantee admission and a seamless acceptance of 64 credits from Craven Community College Associate of Arts or Associate of Science graduates with a GPA of 2.0 or higher into all Mount Olive College degrees in accordance with the North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities Comprehensive Articulation Agreement.

• Provide guaranteed admission and acceptance of appropriate transfer hours, up to 64 credits from AAS programs with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.

The partnership between MOC and CCC is what Dr. Philip P. Kerstetter, president of Mount Olive College, said will create an excellent opportunity for community college students to continue their education and prepare them for the future.

“This agreement is in keeping with the commitment of Mount Olive College to offer high quality education,” said Kerstetter. “Whether you're a student involved in traditional programs, or one who needs the flexibility of our degree completion programs, we want you to have the chance to finish a four-year degree.”

CCC President Catherine Chew says the agreement gives Craven students a great option for earning a bachelor's degree close to home.

“Our goal always is to create as many options for our students as we can,” she said. “We are excited about this enhanced partnership with Mount Olive College and the opportunities it will offer our students to continue their educational endeavors.”

The Mount Olive College/CCC partnership enhances Mount Olive College's relationship with the North Carolina Community College System, as a participating member of the North Carolina Comprehensive Articulation Agreement.