June 16, 2026 (Volume 49, Number 18)
Article by
Kate VanDerKolk
Brooks College Dean's office staff and School of Interdisciplinary Studies faculty are pictured with Northwestern Michigan College aviation staff inside the hangar at NMC.
An articulation agreement between Brooks College of Interdisciplinary Studies and the aviation program at Northwestern Michigan College will help build a unique transfer pathway for students.
Three years ago, GVSU launched the Bachelor of Applied Science degrees in Professional Innovation and Leadership/Business Fundamentals. These unique BAS degrees build on an associate degree foundation, particularly the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees, such as the AAS in aviation, and recognize the value of the technical skills while helping students build interdisciplinary knowledge.
This pathway will allow NMC aviation students to complete their BAS degrees fully online in accelerated six-week formats, or with select in-person courses in Traverse City. Students can complete up to 80 credits in transfer, and GVSU will accept up to 15 credits from NMC's flight school certification program as part of this partnership. These degrees reflect Grand Valley's and Brooks College's commitment to improving access to higher education and supporting student success.
This program is supported by the Traverse City Regional Center. Students have already begun transferring to GVSU through this pathway. Kyle Hudson, a professional innovation major, said it has complemented his associate degree in aviation.
“I find it helpful to see the business side of the company I’ll be working for, and it will most certainly be helpful in the future with the leadership and teamwork the classes have fostered,” Hudson said.
Completing a bachelor’s degree uniquely positions these students for jobs in the airline industry. Graduates from this pathway will have tangible professional benefits, including promotion, new job opportunities and increased earning potential within the airline industry.
— Kate VanDerKolk is the assistant dean for Brooks College of Interdisciplinary Studies.
This article was last edited on June 15, 2026 at 1:33 p.m.
A Detroit News article centered on university governance and a Brookings article called the Thompson Scholars program a model solution for increasing access for students from middle-income families.
June 16, 2026 (Volume 49, Number 18)
Now working in the Division of Enrollment Development and College Futures, Ngassa discusses how his background serves as a bridge between enrollment and academic affairs.
June 16, 2026 (Volume 49, Number 18)
More than 200 students participated in interactive, faculty-led stations, each offering a glimpse of the path a GVSU student in Northern Michigan would take.
June 16, 2026 (Volume 49, Number 18)
Article by
Kennedy Scott
