News from Grand Valley State University
A person points to lines of code on a desktop monitor while another looks on, with a laptop and keyboard on the desk, suggesting a collaborative cybersecurity or programming session.

GVSU expands access to computing degrees through GRCC partnership

New articulation agreements between the College of Computing and Grand Rapids Community College create clear transfer pathways for GRCC students to pursue bachelor’s degrees in high-demand computing fields.

Under the 3+1 and 2+2 agreements, students who complete an associate degree in one of four computing fields at GRCC can transfer to GVSU and pursue a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, software engineering or computer science.

Students may complete up to 75 credits at GRCC before transferring and must finish at least 45 additional credits at GVSU to earn their bachelor’s degree. To increase flexibility and access, some coursework can be completed online.

Portrait of College of Computing Dean Marouane Kessentini
College of Computing Dean Marouane Kessentini
Image credit - Kendra Stanley-Mills

College of Computing Dean Marouane Kessentini said the partnership provides a seamless transfer process between the institutions and removes common barriers for students.

“These agreements reflect GVSU’s strong commitment to access, affordability and student success,” Kessentini said. “By creating these pathways from GRCC into high-demand computing programs at GVSU, we are removing uncertainty for students and helping them move efficiently toward a bachelor’s degree.”

The three-year agreement begins in fall 2026 and runs through August 2029. Kessentini added that, when paired with initiatives such as the GVSU Promise Scholarship , the agreements expand access to advanced computing careers.

“These agreements open the door for more students to pursue advanced computing careers while staying on a clear, supported academic path from day one,” Kessentini said. 

“For students, this means their coursework transfers seamlessly, their time to degree is reduced and the overall cost of earning a GVSU degree is lowered.” 

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