Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Executive Vice President Dr. Jim Barrott and Chattanooga State Community College President Dr. Rebecca Ashford signed articulation agreements on May 29 allowing TCAT graduates from 17 programs to seamlessly transfer into a credit program bringing with them 18 to 24 credits toward one of five designated associate of applied science degrees. An additional program, bringing the number of agreements to 18, may be announced within the next few weeks.

Addressing a number of TCAT students in the audience, Dr. Barrott emphasized that these agreements were created with their future in mind. “Fortunately, we live in a state where our leaders, including our governor, recognize the importance of higher education,” stated Barrott. 

TCAT alums who have not already earned an associate or bachelor’s degree may be eligible to take advantage of this accelerated pathway tuition-free, increasing not only students’ competitiveness in the job marketplace but also their earning potential. Additionally, students age 24 or older may be eligible to use or reuse TN Reconnect to gain this additional educational benefit tuition-free. “TN Reconnect will be an additional avenue for success because of its outstanding benefits,” shared Dr. Barrott. 

Dr. Randy Schulte, TBR Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, praised the additional step in opportunities we provide to students, by saying, “All TCAT students and prospective new students who come to Chattanooga State, or come to the college through TN Reconnect, will benefit immeasurably from these articulations.”

An infographic handout available to visitors and guests illustrated the number of credits earned and how they apply to the five different AAS programs. This infographic can be viewed at https://www.chattanoogastate.edu/sites/default/files/TCAT_AAS_degree_cha...

“I am so pleased to have 17 articulation agreements between TCAT Chattanooga and Chattanooga State Community College,” added Dr. Ashford, “These agreements mean that TCAT graduates can transfer credits to academic programs at Chattanooga State. With TN Reconnect starting in fall 2018, it becomes the perfect time for TCAT graduates to complete their associate degrees.”

For more information, call 423-697-4433.