CSM and UMBC Sign Dual Admissions Agreement to Expand Transfer Options and Support Student Success

Students at the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) can seamlessly transfer to the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) for a bachelor’s degree through a new dual admissions agreement signed Thursday, Nov. 5.

Under the agreement, eligible students who earn an associate degree from CSM can transfer to UMBC as juniors and pursue a bachelor’s degree in a related field with the potential to complete their studies in two additional years. Eligible students may enroll at both UMBC and CSM when they begin college, giving them access to academic advising, resources, and student activities at both institutions.

During the signing ceremony, CSM President Dr. Yolanda Wilson emphasized the importance of helping students successfully transition to a four-year institution and complete their bachelor's degrees.

"Our goal is not simply to help students transfer. It is to ensure they have the support and resources to complete their bachelor's degrees and pursue careers that provide economic stability for themselves and their families. This partnership with UMBC reflects our shared commitment to student success, creating seamless pathways that help students preserve their credits, time and money while opening doors to greater opportunity," Wilson said. 

UMBC President Dr. Valerie Sheares Ashby said the agreement reflects the institutions’ shared commitment to making higher education more accessible and helping students succeed.

“This dual admissions agreement strengthens the relationship between our two campuses and sends students a clear message: We see your potential and will work together to support your journey from associate's degree to a bachelor’s degree–and beyond," said Sheares Ashby.

The signing ceremony brought together leaders and faculty members from both institutions, who participated in working sessions following the formal signing to discuss transfer pathways, student support services and the infrastructure needed to help students retain their credits and complete their bachelor's degrees.

Under the agreement, eligible CSM students can apply general education credits toward UMBC's general education requirements and transfer up to 70 credits from a CSM degree program toward a related bachelor's degree at UMBC.

While CSM encourages students to complete their associate degree before transferring, the agreement also includes a reverse transfer option. Students who transfer before graduating from CSM may apply eligible credits earned at UMBC toward completing their CSM associate degree.

The partnership also expands access to a four-year degree by offering students additional financial assistance. UMBC will offer $1,000 merit scholarships to up to five eligible students for each of their two years of full-time study.

Students interested in learning more can visit CSM’s Transfer Services webpage.