GCCC Joins Statewide Transfer Agreement with Emporia State University
[Garden City, KS] November 21, 2025 -- Garden City Community College (GCCC) is proud to join all 19 Kansas community colleges in a new statewide transfer agreement with Emporia State University (ESU) that will streamline pathways for students pursuing a bachelor’s degree.
The general system-wide transfer agreement, recognized by the Kansas Board of Regents, creates a clear and consistent process for students completing an Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) degree at GCCC, or any Kansas community college, to transfer seamlessly into designated majors at Emporia State.
Students who complete either the AA or AS at GCCC shall be deemed to have fulfilled the general education requirements at Emporia State University and will only be required to complete an additional 60 hours at ESU to complete the Bachelor of Arts or Science degree.
“GCCC is committed to building pathways that remove barriers and support student success. By participating in this statewide agreement, we’re ensuring that our students have expanded opportunities to continue their education and earn their bachelor’s degree efficiently,” said Dr. Ryan Ruda, President of Garden City Community College.
Under the new framework, students who complete their associate degree at GCCC can finish their bachelor’s degree with just two additional years of coursework at ESU. This agreement strengthens transfer pathways statewide and gives students greater clarity and consistency as they plan their next steps.
“We now have a seamless transfer pathway for those who graduate with an associate’s degree from any Kansas community college who want to move on to a designated major or a bachelor’s degree from Emporia State,” said Greg Schneider, ESU Assistant Vice President of Academic Strategies and Government Relations in a release.
The articulation agreement, signed Thursday November 20 in front of state and college leaders, is the first of its kind in Kansas, according to Heather Morgan, Executive Director of the Kansas Association of Community Colleges. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for higher education access across the state.
For more information on transferring from GCCC to a four-year university, students may contact the GCCC Advising Center at advising@gcccks.edu.
Image courtesy of Emporia State University.
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Garden City Community College exists to produce positive contributors to the economic and social well-being of society.