Gardner-Webb University and Mitchell Community College Launch Strategic Partnerships

Agreements Expand Degree Access and Nursing Pathways

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University and Mitchell Community College (MCC) in Statesville, N.C., have announced two landmark partnership agreements designed to streamline the transfer process and provide high-level educational opportunities for students in Iredell County and the surrounding regions. These agreements, signed in late December 2025, establish the “Bulldog Bound” direct-entry admission program and a comprehensive “Bridge to Professional Advancement in Nursing” pathway.

Gardner-Webb President Nate Evans commented on the impacts of the partnership with MCC. “Gardner-Webb is proud to partner with Mitchell Community College to build stronger pathways for students to thrive,” Evans affirmed. “These agreements remove barriers, streamline transfer, and create high-impact opportunities, especially in the critical area of nursing and healthcare leadership. Together, we are investing in students and strengthening the future workforce of our region.”

Mitchell Community College President Dr. Tim Brewer, added, “At Mitchell Community College, our mission is to provide equitable access to affordable, high-quality learning experiences that lead to social and economic mobility for our students. These new partnerships with Gardner-Webb University exemplify that commitment by creating clear, seamless pathways for our students to achieve their highest academic and professional goals. By establishing the Bulldog Bound direct-entry program and the nursing bridge to advanced degrees, we are providing the necessary resources for our learners to thrive, while ultimately empowering our students’ futures and the communities we serve.”

Details and benefits of the two agreements are outlined below.

Bulldog Bound: A Direct-Entry Admission Program

The Bulldog Bound program provides a direct-entry pathway for currently enrolled MCC students who intend to transfer to GWU after completing their associate degree. This co-admission initiative is open to students pursuing an Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), Associate of Arts in Teacher Preparation (AATP), Associate of Fine Arts (AFA), or Associate in Applied Science (AAS).

Key benefits of the program include:

• Guaranteed Admission: Participating students who meet GPA and MCC graduation requirements and Gardner-Webb admissions criteria are guaranteed admission to Gardner-Webb University.
• Early Access: Students receive information regarding financial aid, registration, and orientation early in the transition process.
• No Application Fees: There is no fee to participate in the Bulldog Bound program.
• Reverse Transfer: A process is in place for students who matriculate to GWU prior to completing their associate degree, allowing them to finish their MCC credential by combining credits from both institutions.

Bridge to Professional Advancement in Nursing

Recognizing the critical need for advanced healthcare professionals, the Bridge to Professional Advancement in Nursing agreement provides a seamless ADN-to-DNP (Associate Degree in Nursing to Doctor of Nursing Practice) pathway. Students accepted into Mitchell’s ADN program are dually accepted into the Hunt School of Nursing at Gardner-Webb.

This pathway allows nursing students to progress from their initial associate degree directly through to master’s and doctoral-level programs, including:

• Davis RN-to-BSN.
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with concentrations in Education, Administration, or a Dual MSN/MBA.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) for Family Nurse Practitioners or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners.
• Nursing students in this bridge program also benefit from waived application fees and a coordinated advising process between both institutions.

About Mitchell Community College

Mitchell Community College is a public, community-focused institution that provides equitable access to affordable, high-quality learning experiences. Committed to student success and lifelong learning, the college offers programs that emphasize practical skills and foundational knowledge to lead students toward diverse career pathways.

About Gardner-Webb University

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Become More at gardner-webb.edu.