GTCC and Forsyth Tech students now have a direct path to admission at UNC Charlotte
Published on: March 7, 2025
Winston-Salem, N.C. (March 7, 2025) – Today, in a joint ceremony, Forsyth Technical Community College, Guilford Technical Community College, and the University of North Carolina Charlotte announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) guaranteeing admission for students from the two community colleges to UNC Charlotte after completing an eligible associate degree with a required GPA.
The program, known as 49erNext, creates a seamless pathway for Forsyth Tech and GTCC students to transfer to the university.
“At Forsyth Tech, we believe education should open doors, not put up roadblocks,” said Tamara Williams, Chief Academic Officer at Forsyth Tech. “We know that many of our students dream of earning a four-year degree.”
Williams, Anthony Clarke, Ph.D., president of GTCC, and Sharon Gaber, Ph.D., chancellor of UNC Charlotte participated in a joint signing ceremony at Forsyth Tech to formalize the MOU between the three colleges.
“This partnership is designed to support students in achieving their academic and career goals by offering personalized guidance, campus resources, and early access to UNC Charlotte’s dynamic campus,” said Clarke. “Participants in 49erNext benefit from academic advising, tailored transfer plans, and opportunities to connect with peers and faculty at UNC Charlotte.”
49erNext will offer support in several ways, including simplified credit transfer and personalized academic advising; availability of advisors to help with the process; workshops and events that prepare students for internships, jobs, and career success; and financial aid guidance.
"Together, we are making a commitment to collaboration that puts students' needs first," said UNC Charlotte Chancellor Sharon Gaber. "We are convinced that it is essential to offering the best possible opportunity to the students we serve."
49erNext students can also use services and benefits offered by UNC Charlotte while still attending their respective community colleges. Some of those benefits include career services, athletics tickets, access to the library, and more.
About UNC Charlotte: UNC Charlotte is a leading urban research university with a significant local-to-global impact. We transform lives, communities, and industries through accessible and affordable education, offering exemplary bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and professional programs. Our commitment to scholarship, innovation, and service drives our contributions to the ever-evolving needs of society. Through strategic partnerships and a focus on real-world applications, we prepare our graduates to excel in their careers and lead with purpose and integrity in a rapidly changing world.
About Forsyth Technical Community College: Forsyth Technical Community College provides students with guided educational pathways into a competitive workforce for the community and global economy. The college offers associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates in more than 200 programs of study, including programs that promote personal and professional development through non-credit courses and seminars, as well as customized training for business and industry. Forsyth Tech serves more than 21,000 students with approximately 1,500 full and part-time faculty and staff. For additional information, please visit forsythtech.edu and follow on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
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